Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Saint Petersburg

What is special or unique about your city?

St.Petersburg is famous for the art collection housed in the Hermitage Museum. It is named after Tsar Peter the Great, who founded the city as his "Window to the West;" it is noted for being one of the most European cities in the Russian Federation. This is evidenced everywhere in the city, including in the canals--which are modeled after the canals in Amsterdam.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

The first impression is that St. Petersburg is a beautiful, colorful, historic city. It has a very European sensibility, and feels quite intimate and small when compared to Moscow.

Are these impressions likely to change?

Not really

What is the local language?

Russian

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

It is certainly possible to get by without learning the language, though knowledge of some basic Russian and the Cyrillic alphabet is certainly an advantage for getting around.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

Russians can be quite superstitious, and you should respect that. For example, don’t whistle in front of other people; according to superstition, doing so brings bad luck and means that person will have no money!

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

Russian winter is long ( 6 months) and can be really cold. People stay at home a lot and don’t socialize that much. Summers are hot and dry; during this time, the locals go out of the city to their “datcha’s” (summerhouses) and the city is quiet.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

Russians can come across as quite distant and closed when you first meet them. They are proud by nature and a little cautious to things that are new and strange to them. But, don't let that deter you--once you've gotten to know them, you will find that they are very generous and hospitable and will do anything for you to make you feel welcome!

Useful Links

The official website of St. Petersburg www.spb.ru A tourism site with lots of information about St. Petersburg www.travel.spb.ru The St. Petersburg Times www.sptimes.ru City Tourist Information Center www.ctic.spb.ru

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

You can obtain a work permit for the duration of your visa (maximum one year, but it is renewable). After 5 years you can apply for Russian citizenship, but it’s a long, complicated process.

What kinds of visas are available?

Tourist Visa, single/double entry: These are for people staying only a short time who do not plan to work while in St. Petersburg. Business Visa, single/double entry + multiple entry: These are for people relocating to the area for business purposes.

What is required to obtain these visas?

Tourist Visa, single/double entry: passport copy and dates of stay Business Visa, single/double entry: passport copy and information about company Business Visa multiple entry: passport copy and information about company* * The documentation needed for the application in the origin country differs per country. Contact your local Embassy for more details.

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

Permitted yes, but likelihood of finding employment depends on the field they wish to enter.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

Passport and registration of visa; you may also require a permit to enter your office building, though that depends on your company. There will be a local office where you can register your visa; ask your landlord where to go, and bring your rental contract as proof of residence.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

In order to work in St. Petersburg, you will require a work permit. Application for one will take approximately 5 months, and it is done through one of five different official agencies. Ask Crown St. Petersburg for more details. Bear in mind that in order to obtain a work permit, your company must be registered the Russian Federation or a territory thereof.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

Don’t bring plants.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

You must register your visa within 72 hours upon arrival. Also, keep your Passport inclusive registration with you at all times.

Useful Links

European Business Club www.ebc.ru American Chamber of Commerce in Russia www.amcham.ru Visa Support for Russia www.visa.ru

 

What is the local currency?

Rubles, which can then be divided into Kopecks.

What denominations does it come in?

Notes come in denominations of 10, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 Rubles. Coins come in 1, 2 and 5 Rubles; Kopecks come in 1, 5, 10 and 50 coins.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

Banks or exchange offices are the best places to go for this.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

In 95 percent of cases, you’ll have to pay for items like groceries in cash. Credit cards and Traveller’s cheques are only accepted by large stores and supermarkets.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Yes, in most hotels, established shops and restaurants you can use credit cards.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Most people opt to pay their bills in cash, though there is a small percentage who prefer to transfer the money from their credit cards or via internet payments.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

Requirements vary by bank, but you can generally expect that proof of residency by means of rental contract or registration will be required.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

Not all languages will be easy to find, but French, German and English should be no problem

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

Be aware that there are certain banks that will not open personal accounts, only corporate accounts.

What are typical banking hours?

10am to 6pm Monday through Friday. Sberbank is also open on Saturday morning.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

Yes

Is there any other money information that might help me?

You can change both US Dollars and Euros everywhere, anytime.

Useful Links

Calculate exchange rates (Russian only) www.rbc.ru Universal Currency Converter www.xe.com/ucc/

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

Housing in St. Petersburg is at a premium, and as such is both difficult to find and very expensive. Families with children generally opt to live in compounds outside of the city center, while those without children seem to prefer living within city limits.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

Petrogradskaya Storona, the Golden Triangle, the area around St.Isaac's Cathedral, Tavrichesky Garden Area and the Fontaka River area are all exceptionally popular among expatriates. They all have beautiful buildings, many of which are newly renovated; they are all within a short distance of great nightlife options and lots of lovely parks and greenery. These areas are also home to most of the nicest restaurants and cafes in St. Petersburg.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Expats generally opt to rent.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

Yes, it depends on the owner but 10 to 20 percent of the rent is average, paid up front.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Water and gas are generally included in the rent, though electricity might be excluded. Ask your landlord.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

It is recommended that you live in a housing area with either a coded security system or a security gurad. Additionally, it is safer to live in apartments above the ground floor.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

Current is 220 Volts, 50 Hz. The plug shape is similar to the standard European plug, but slightly thinner. You can, however, purchase an adapter to make it fit.

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

International Business is growing in St. Petersburg. This means the rental prices are constantly changing; contact Crown St. Petersburg for a better idea of current costs.

Useful Links

St. Petersburg Hotel Guide www.hotels.spb.ru

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

Expats in St. Petersburg tend to either send their children to the local International schools or Russian schools that offer study of Foreign languages in their program.

What are some examples of these schools?

Middle School Nr. 29: This is a Russian state shool that offers thorough study of French and Law. School Nr. 171: A Russian State school with a Russian-French department. French Institute in St. Petersburg German Goethe Schule; Russian - German School American School: An excellent school, though quite small when compared to the one in Moscow. European School: A center for international education

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

Not really.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

Yes, there are several Russian and also Foreign pre-schools, such as the ILA Aspect British Kindergarten, which can be reached at tel: 007 812 118 8217

How are most kids transported to and from school?

Several schools operate bus services, and many children take those. Or, their parents take them to school.

When does the typical school year start and end?

Classes generally begin in September and end in May.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

Russian State Schools offer a very high level of education.

Useful Links

Institut Francais de St. Petersburg www.ifspb.com St. Petersburg German School (Russian) www.kop.ru/?go=cat&sho=415 Learn to speak Russian www.learnrussian.com St. Petersburg International School www.interschool.ru/ Study foreign languages and learn about exchange programs (Russian) www.euroschool.ru

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.