Guide to Russia
Your reliable guide in Russia.
The Culture of Doing Business with Russia
With 20 years of field experience, I have compiled the secrets of the Russian business mindset for you. If you want to be successful in Russia, you must integrate these four points into your business processes.
'Myths and Realities'
'Myths and Realities'
Payment and Banking Systems
Financial Solutions: Keeping Trade's Lifelines Open
Logistics and Customs Procedures
Don't get lost in the complex maze of trade with Russia. With the right strategy and a strong partner, confidently bring your products to market.
Contract and Legal Guide
Trade with Russia begins with the right signature. Don't leave your business to chance; leave it to a solid contract.
Downloadable Documents (Archive)
You may request from us any laws, procedures or other documents you require in relation to your business.
Sectoral Standards (GOST) and (EAC) Certification
If you do not have a company or distributor in Russia, we manage the certification process on your behalf by offering the ‘Contractual Applicant’ (Applicant Service) service through the RFCONS partnership network.
Public Holidays and Commercial Calendar
When trading with Russia, you should adjust the calendar according to the Russian Federation's ‘Production Calendar’ rather than Turkey's.
Employment
The Most Challenging Aspect of Investment in Russia: Employment and Human Resources
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We have answered the most frequently asked questions from entrepreneurs wishing to trade, establish a company or work in Russia, drawing on RFCONS' expertise and current legislation.
'Myths and Realities'
1. They Think Mathematically, Not Emotionally
In Turkish business culture, “trust” is sometimes established through words and eye contact. In Russia, however, trust is based on data on paper.
They are guarantee-oriented: The most important thing for your Russian counterpart is minimising risk. Your statement, ‘I guarantee it, I stand behind the goods,’ has no commercial value for them.
Documents speak: Instead of describing the quality of your product, they expect you to put its certificates, laboratory results, and technical specifications on the table.
Recommendation: Have ‘concrete evidence’ with you when you go to the meeting. If your draft contract, technical specifications, and bank references are not ready, nothing will come of that meeting.
2. The ‘Bargaining is a Ritual’ Mindset Does Not Apply Here
Russian businesspeople are pragmatic. Their time is valuable, and they may perceive lengthy bargaining processes as ‘ineptitude’ or ‘distrust.’
Realistic Price: Setting your initial offer too high, thinking ‘we'll negotiate it down anyway,’ may cause the Russian side to walk away from the table. Assuming they know the market, it is best to go with a competitive and realistic (real) price.
Clarity: What is and is not included in the price (shipping, customs, insurance) must be clearly stated from the outset. The logic of ‘the caravan is sorted out on the road’ does not work in Russia.
3. They prefer results, not small talk
In Turkey, a business meeting begins with small talk about the weather, football or family (the ice-breaking phase). In Russia, however, getting straight to the point is not rude, but professional.
Short and Sweet: Keep your presentations brief. Don't tell stories; be results-oriented. They want to hear the answers to questions like ‘How much will I earn if I buy this product? When will I receive it? What are the risks?’ within the first 10 minutes.
Coldness is Distance, Not Rejection: If your Russian partner does not smile, remains serious, or speaks little during the meeting, it does not mean they dislike you. It shows they take the business seriously. Sincerity only develops after the business is successfully concluded.
4. There is No Equivalent to the Word ‘We'll Take Care of It’ in Russian
The phrase ‘We'll sort it out,’ uttered by Turkish entrepreneurs in moments of crisis with their practical wit, is an ‘alarm bell’ for Russian businesspeople.
Planned Process: They dislike uncertainty. When a problem arises, they want to see a pre-determined Plan B (contract clause), not an improvised solution.
Institutionalism: Your counterpart expects every stage of the process (production, loading, arrival) to be reported in writing. Transparency is valued far more than sincerity.
In summary: If you want to establish a lasting presence in the Russian market, you must let your professionalism speak for itself, not your emotions; your contracts, not your words; your mathematics, not your dreams.
Financial Solutions and Money Transfer
*IMPORTANT NOTICE:*
Due to the sanctions and banking restrictions imposed by the West on the Russian Federation, international payment systems and channels are constantly changing. A method that worked yesterday may no longer be valid today. However, at RFCONS, thanks to our real-time information flow in the field and our financial partners, we always produce a solution that is legal, secure, and operational according to the current situation.
1. Trading in Local Currencies (Ruble - TL):*
Due to pressure on the dollar and euro, we are shifting the direction of trade to national currencies. Thanks to the relationships we have established with banks in Turkey that can process Ruble/TL transactions and have open correspondent networks in Russia (such as public and private participation banks), we protect your money from the risk of ‘intermediary bank (correspondent) failure’.
2. ‘Active Bank’ Tracking:*
The list of banks working with Russia and their compliance policies may change weekly. We monitor in real time which banks accept transfers and which impose blocks. We direct our customers to the fastest channel available under the conditions of the day.
3. Third Country and Transit Payment Models:*
In situations where direct transfer is not possible or risky, we provide consultancy on legal payment corridors established through Central Asia or other friendly countries. We legally align the logistics route of the goods with the route of the money.
4. Contract and Invoice Compliance:*
The most critical point for banks to approve payment is that the proforma invoice and contract are in the language and format required by the ‘bank compliance unit’. At RFCONS, we check the necessary documentation set before you even sign it to ensure the payment does not get stuck at the bank.
#### Our Advice to Our Customers
In trade with Russia, the era of *‘Agree first, think about the money later’* is over. The difference in working with RFCONS is this:
We tell you *‘We will send the money from this bank, in this currency, using this code’* before you even start trading. We do not initiate the logistics route without first mapping out the financial route.
Due to the sanctions and banking restrictions imposed by the West on the Russian Federation, international payment systems and channels are constantly changing. A method that worked yesterday may no longer be valid today. However, at RFCONS, thanks to our real-time information flow in the field and our financial partners, we always produce a solution that is legal, secure, and operational according to the current situation.
1. Trading in Local Currencies (Ruble - TL):*
Due to pressure on the dollar and euro, we are shifting the direction of trade to national currencies. Thanks to the relationships we have established with banks in Turkey that can process Ruble/TL transactions and have open correspondent networks in Russia (such as public and private participation banks), we protect your money from the risk of ‘intermediary bank (correspondent) failure’.
2. ‘Active Bank’ Tracking:*
The list of banks working with Russia and their compliance policies may change weekly. We monitor in real time which banks accept transfers and which impose blocks. We direct our customers to the fastest channel available under the conditions of the day.
3. Third Country and Transit Payment Models:*
In situations where direct transfer is not possible or risky, we provide consultancy on legal payment corridors established through Central Asia or other friendly countries. We legally align the logistics route of the goods with the route of the money.
4. Contract and Invoice Compliance:*
The most critical point for banks to approve payment is that the proforma invoice and contract are in the language and format required by the ‘bank compliance unit’. At RFCONS, we check the necessary documentation set before you even sign it to ensure the payment does not get stuck at the bank.
#### Our Advice to Our Customers
In trade with Russia, the era of *‘Agree first, think about the money later’* is over. The difference in working with RFCONS is this:
We tell you *‘We will send the money from this bank, in this currency, using this code’* before you even start trading. We do not initiate the logistics route without first mapping out the financial route.
Logistics and Customs Procedures
The Russian Federation has always been a strategic market for Turkish exporters. However, Russia ranks among the countries with the most complex logistics operations and customs procedures. An incorrect HS code, a missing certificate, or faulty labelling can result in your goods being held up at customs for months or incurring heavy fines.
As RFCONS, in this article, we have compiled the essential logistics routes, customs criteria, and ‘invisible’ details you need to know to manage your goods flow smoothly in the Russian market.
1. Transport to Russia: Main Logistics Routes
Russia's geographical size and shifting geopolitical balances keep its logistics routes constantly dynamic. Depending on the type, urgency, and budget of your product, you can consider the following main routes:
Road Transport (TIR)
This is the most commonly used method for exports from Turkey to Russia.
Via Georgia (Verkhny Lars): This is the most frequently used route. Goods exit via the Sarp Border Gate and enter Vladikavkaz (Russia) via Georgia.
Note: During winter months, this border crossing may frequently close due to weather conditions, leading to long lorry queues.
Alternative Routes: Alternative crossings are also used via the Caspian Sea or (seasonally) via the Azerbaijan route.
Sea Freight
Ideal for heavy cargo and container transport.
Novorossiysk Port: The main gateway to the Black Sea. Direct shipping services are available from Istanbul or other Turkish ports. Customs clearance is usually carried out here, followed by distribution to other regions of Russia via inland transport.
St. Petersburg and the Far East: Preferred for cargo destined for the northern or eastern regions of the country, but transit times are longer.
Air Freight
Used for samples, urgent spare parts or high value-added products (textiles, electronics).
Moscow's Sheremetyevo (SVO), Domodedovo (DME) or Vnukovo (VKO) airports are generally used. It is the most expensive but fastest method.
2. Russian Customs Procedures: The ‘Zero Error’ Principle
Russian customs operate on the principle of ‘control is paramount’ rather than ‘declaration is paramount’. Even a single letter error in your documents can stall the process.
Critical Documents and Processes
Correct GTIP (HS Code) Determination: Russian customs codes and Turkish codes may sometimes differ in the last digits. Correctly determining the code according to Russian legislation determines the tax rate and the necessary certificates.
EAC Certificate (Eurasian Conformity Mark): Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia and Kyrgyzstan are part of a customs union. An EAC Certificate or Declaration is mandatory for your products (especially machinery, textiles, food, cosmetics) to enter Russia.
Consignment Note and Invoice Consistency: The weight on the invoice must match the weight on the consignment note, TIR carnet, and actual weight to the gram. Russian customs are very sensitive to weight discrepancies.
RFCONS Warning: Customs officers in Russia do not use their discretion; they apply the regulations to the letter. Therefore, the ‘we'll sort it out’ mentality does not apply at Russian customs. The preparation stage must be flawless.
3. Don't Let It Be the Exporter's Nightmare: ‘Chestny Znak’ (Labelling)
One of the issues we remind our customers about most often at RFCONS is the digital traceability system.
What is it? It is a system whereby certain product groups sold in Russia are tracked using a ‘Data Matrix’ (QR code).
Which Products? Footwear, textiles (specific groups), perfumery, rubber, tobacco, etc.
Importance: If your products fall within this scope, they must be labelled with these codes before leaving Turkey (or at the customs warehouse). Unlabelled products cannot pass through Russian customs and will be treated as contraband.
4. Payment and Financial Logistics
In the current climate, not only the logistics of goods but also the ‘logistics of money’ are important. Due to sanctions, banking channels are constantly changing.
Before exporting, you should check which bank the Russian buyer works with and whether that bank has SWIFT/payment restrictions.
It is essential to obtain up-to-date information on the use of alternative channels such as Ruble/TL trading or the Real Estate Bank.
What Does RFCONS Do for You?
The Russian market is profitable but risky for those who enter unprepared. At RFCONS, we do not just provide consultancy; we are involved in the operational process.
Customs Pre-Clearance: We check your documents with our Russian customs consultants before your goods are shipped.
Certification: We ensure that EAC and other necessary permits (State Registration Certificate, etc.) are obtained.
Logistics Analysis: We plan the most cost-effective and secure route for you.
Contract Management: We prepare bilingual contracts that comply with Russian trade law and protect your rights.
Don't get lost in the complex maze of trade with Russia. With the right strategy and a strong partner, you can confidently bring your products to market.
Contract and Legal Guide
Legal Assurance in Trade with Russia: Contract and Legislation Guide
The biggest mistake made by Turkish companies entering the Russian market is attempting to conduct business using commercial practices from Turkey or standard contract templates found online. It should be remembered that the Russian Federation's legal system is highly formalistic, rule-based, and does not tolerate errors.
Our experience at RFCONS is this: ‘A good contract is a passport at Russian customs and a shield in court.’
In this guide, we discuss how to protect yourself legally when sitting down at the table with your Russian partners or buyers.
1. Golden Rule: Bilingual Contract
Under Russian legislation, any document submitted to official authorities (Customs, Tax Office, Banks) must be in Russian. However, signing only a Russian text carries significant risk for the Turkish party.
Ideal Format: Contracts with a columnar structure, where the left side of the page is in Russian and the right side is in Turkish (or English).
Dominant Language Clause: The contract must include a clause specifying which language shall prevail in the event of a discrepancy between the two languages. The Russian party usually prefers Russian, but depending on your negotiating power, you can also base it on English or Turkish.
2. Essential: The Logic of ‘Specification’ (Specification/Additional Protocol)
In Turkey, trade can often be conducted for years with a single main contract. In Russia, however, a ‘Framework Contract’ sets out the main points, but it is common and often mandatory to sign a separate ‘Specification’ for each shipment.
Why is this important? Customs officials want to see the price, weight and delivery method of the goods in the lorry that has just arrived in the ‘Addendum’ specific to that shipment, which refers to the main contract. Without this document, banks may not approve the money transfer (Valutniy Control).
3. Payment and Money Transfer: Law in a World of Sanctions
In the current climate (post-Ukraine crisis and sanctions), standard payment clauses are no longer valid. Your contract should include clauses that provide financial flexibility:
Currency: Even if the contract is in USD or EUR, the clause ‘Payment may be made in Rubles or Turkish Lira at the Central Bank exchange rate on the payment date’ should be added.
Alternative Bank: Clauses specifying alternative payment channels should be included in case the buyer's bank is added to the sanctions list.
4. Delivery Terms and Transfer of Ownership (Incoterms)
In Russian law, the issue of ‘when ownership is transferred’ is critical in terms of taxation and liability.
Incoterms 2020 (EXW, FCA, DAP, CIF, etc.) should be clearly specified in the contract.
However, Incoterms alone are not sufficient; it must be clarified whether the transfer of ownership occurs when the goods cross the customs line or when they arrive at the buyer's warehouse. This determines who is liable if the goods are damaged in transit.
5. Dispute Resolution: Which Court?
This is perhaps the most strategic clause. Russian companies often include a clause in contracts stating that ‘the Moscow Arbitration Court shall have jurisdiction in the event of a dispute.’
Risk: Suing and winning against a Russian company in Russia is a costly, lengthy, and difficult process for a foreign company.
RFCONS Recommendation: If possible, international arbitration tribunals or the jurisdiction of a neutral country should be negotiated. If Russian law is to be accepted, the contractual penalties must be very carefully balanced.
6. A Detail Specific to Russia: The ‘Act’ (Minutes) Culture
In Russia, business does not end when the invoice is issued. Especially if you are exporting services or selling goods that include installation, the job is not officially complete and you cannot receive payment until the ‘Act of Acceptance’ (Act of Acceptance / Akt priemki-peredachi) is signed. The format of this document must be defined in the contract annex.
Strengthen Your Legal Grounds with RFCONS
The Russian market does not forgive mistakes, but with the right legal infrastructure, it offers great opportunities. At RFCONS, we do not use standard templates.
Risk Analysis: We review your current contract draft in terms of Russian commercial law and customs regulations.
Negotiation Support: We are by your side during contract negotiations with your Russian buyer, protecting your interests.
Compliance: We arrange all the necessary technical details to ensure your contract is not ‘rejected’ by the bank and customs.
Trade with Russia starts with the right signature. Leave your business to a solid contract, not to chance.
Is your contract ready for Russian Customs? Send us your current contract draft and we will conduct a free mini check-up on the critical clauses (Payment, Delivery, Dispute Resolution). We will report any risky clauses to you.
Sectoral Standards (GOST) and Certification
Most Turkish exporters still say ‘a GOST certificate is required’ out of old habit, but the system has changed significantly and has transitioned to the EAC (Eurasian Customs Union) system.
Your Ticket to the Russian Market: EAC and GOST Standards
When exporting to the Russian Federation and Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) countries, product compliance with technical standards is not just a quality indicator but a legal requirement.
The right certification strategy is essential for your goods to pass through customs without issues and be legally sold on the Russian domestic market. At RFCONS, we chart the most accurate and cost-effective route for your product through the complex ocean of regulations.
1. Ending the Conceptual Confusion: GOST or EAC?
Although the general term among Turkish exporters is ‘GOST Certificate,’ Russia's technical regulations have undergone a major transformation in recent years.
EAC (Eurasian Conformity): This is the common certificate of the Customs Union, which covers Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan and Armenia. Today, 90% of products (textiles, machinery, food, electronics, etc.) fall under this scope (TR CU Regulations).
GOST-R: This is the old Russian national standard that is still valid for specific product groups that have not yet been included in Customs Union regulations (e.g. certain construction materials, high-voltage equipment, etc.).
In summary: It is impossible for your product to pass through customs without the EAC logo on it.
2. Types of Documents: Declaration or Certificate?
The document you need to obtain depends on your product's risk class:
A. EAC Declaration (Declaration of Conformity)
For whom: Generally industrial machinery, adult textile products, certain foods.
Process: Faster and lower cost. It is essentially a declaration based on supporting documents.
Duration: Can be obtained on a batch basis or for serial production for 1-5 years.
B. EAC Certificate (Certificate of Conformity)
For whom: Products considered ‘risky’. Children's clothing, toys, heavy industrial equipment, home electronics.
Process: Requires mandatory factory audit and sample testing in accredited laboratories.
Critical: Products cannot be cleared through customs without this certificate.
C. SGR (State Registration Certificate - Hygiene Certificate)
This is the most challenging process. It is required for baby food, certain cosmetics, chemicals, and special foods. The EAC process cannot be initiated without this hygiene approval, which is valid throughout the Customs Union.
3. Sectoral Overview: Which Product, Which Legislation?
As RFCONS, the sectors we encounter most frequently and the regulations they are subject to:
Machinery and Equipment: TR CU 010/2011. The safety, electrical components, and electromagnetic compatibility of the machine are tested.
Textiles and Ready-to-Wear Clothing: TR CU 017/2011. The composition of the fabric and dye fastness are important. (Note: Baby/children's clothing is subject to much stricter controls under TR CU 007/2011.)
Food Products: TR CU 021/2011. Food safety and labelling standards are fundamental.
Cosmetics: TR CU 009/2011. Content analysis and dermatological tests are performed.
4. The Exporter's Biggest Obstacle: The ‘Applicant’ Issue
The EAC certificate or declaration can only be issued in the name of a legal entity registered in Russia (or a member state).
Therefore, as a company based in Turkey, you cannot obtain the document directly in your own name. You will appear as the ‘Manufacturer’ on the document, but the ‘Applicant’ must be a company in Russia.
RFCONS Solution: If you do not have a company or distributor in Russia, we manage the certification process on your behalf by offering the ‘Contract Applicant’ (Applicant Service) through the RFCONS partnership network.
5. Certification Process with RFCONS
HS Code Analysis: We examine your product's customs code and determine which regulation (Declaration or Certificate?) it is subject to.
Cost Optimisation: We implement a strategy of grouping similar products into a single document, avoiding unnecessary testing.
Sampling and Testing: If required, we manage sample submission and accredited laboratory processes in Moscow.
Draft Approval: We present the draft to you before printing the document, reducing the risk of typographical errors to zero.
Registration: We register your document in the ‘Rosakkreditatsiya’ (Federal Accreditation Agency) system and send you a digital copy.
‘What Documentation is Required for Your Product?’ ‘Enter your products' HS Code number or technical specifications in the form below. Our experts will send you a free “Certification Roadmap and Estimated Budget” report within 24 hours.’
Your Ticket to the Russian Market: EAC and GOST Standards
When exporting to the Russian Federation and Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) countries, product compliance with technical standards is not just a quality indicator but a legal requirement.
The right certification strategy is essential for your goods to pass through customs without issues and be legally sold on the Russian domestic market. At RFCONS, we chart the most accurate and cost-effective route for your product through the complex ocean of regulations.
1. Ending the Conceptual Confusion: GOST or EAC?
Although the general term among Turkish exporters is ‘GOST Certificate,’ Russia's technical regulations have undergone a major transformation in recent years.
EAC (Eurasian Conformity): This is the common certificate of the Customs Union, which covers Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan and Armenia. Today, 90% of products (textiles, machinery, food, electronics, etc.) fall under this scope (TR CU Regulations).
GOST-R: This is the old Russian national standard that is still valid for specific product groups that have not yet been included in Customs Union regulations (e.g. certain construction materials, high-voltage equipment, etc.).
In summary: It is impossible for your product to pass through customs without the EAC logo on it.
2. Types of Documents: Declaration or Certificate?
The document you need to obtain depends on your product's risk class:
A. EAC Declaration (Declaration of Conformity)
For whom: Generally industrial machinery, adult textile products, certain foods.
Process: Faster and lower cost. It is essentially a declaration based on supporting documents.
Duration: Can be obtained on a batch basis or for serial production for 1-5 years.
B. EAC Certificate (Certificate of Conformity)
For whom: Products considered ‘risky’. Children's clothing, toys, heavy industrial equipment, home electronics.
Process: Requires mandatory factory audit and sample testing in accredited laboratories.
Critical: Products cannot be cleared through customs without this certificate.
C. SGR (State Registration Certificate - Hygiene Certificate)
This is the most challenging process. It is required for baby food, certain cosmetics, chemicals, and special foods. The EAC process cannot be initiated without this hygiene approval, which is valid throughout the Customs Union.
3. Sectoral Overview: Which Product, Which Legislation?
As RFCONS, the sectors we encounter most frequently and the regulations they are subject to:
Machinery and Equipment: TR CU 010/2011. The safety, electrical components, and electromagnetic compatibility of the machine are tested.
Textiles and Ready-to-Wear Clothing: TR CU 017/2011. The composition of the fabric and dye fastness are important. (Note: Baby/children's clothing is subject to much stricter controls under TR CU 007/2011.)
Food Products: TR CU 021/2011. Food safety and labelling standards are fundamental.
Cosmetics: TR CU 009/2011. Content analysis and dermatological tests are performed.
4. The Exporter's Biggest Obstacle: The ‘Applicant’ Issue
The EAC certificate or declaration can only be issued in the name of a legal entity registered in Russia (or a member state).
Therefore, as a company based in Turkey, you cannot obtain the document directly in your own name. You will appear as the ‘Manufacturer’ on the document, but the ‘Applicant’ must be a company in Russia.
RFCONS Solution: If you do not have a company or distributor in Russia, we manage the certification process on your behalf by offering the ‘Contract Applicant’ (Applicant Service) through the RFCONS partnership network.
5. Certification Process with RFCONS
HS Code Analysis: We examine your product's customs code and determine which regulation (Declaration or Certificate?) it is subject to.
Cost Optimisation: We implement a strategy of grouping similar products into a single document, avoiding unnecessary testing.
Sampling and Testing: If required, we manage sample submission and accredited laboratory processes in Moscow.
Draft Approval: We present the draft to you before printing the document, reducing the risk of typographical errors to zero.
Registration: We register your document in the ‘Rosakkreditatsiya’ (Federal Accreditation Agency) system and send you a digital copy.
‘What Documentation is Required for Your Product?’ ‘Enter your products' HS Code number or technical specifications in the form below. Our experts will send you a free “Certification Roadmap and Estimated Budget” report within 24 hours.’
Russian Commercial Calendar: Holidays and ‘Dead Seasons’
Russian Commercial Calendar: Holidays and ‘Dead Seasons’
When trading with Russia, you should adjust your calendar according to the Russian Federation's ‘Production Calendar’ (Proizvodstvenny Kalendar), not Turkey's. Otherwise, your goods may be held up at customs for days, or your bank transfers may be pending for weeks.
Here are the critical periods we at RFCONS recommend you pay attention to:
❄️ 1. Major New Year Holiday (1st to 10th of January)
In Russia, New Year is not just one day, but an official holiday lasting approximately 10 days.
Business Life Stops: Banks, government offices and businesses are completely closed.
Logistics Warning: If your goods enter customs at the end of December and the process is not completed, they will remain in customs (warehousing) until mid-January. This means very high storage costs.
Recommendation: Avoid making critical shipments and payments after the 20th of December.
🌸 2. May Holidays (Early May)
The ‘May Holidays’ (Mayskiye Prazdniki) are famous in Russia.
1 May (Labour Day) and 9 May (Victory Day) are public holidays.
The government usually combines the days in between as well. It may be difficult to reach your Russian counterparts in the first half of May; most people go out of town (to their dachas).
💐 3. 8 March International Women's Day
This is a much more important and significant holiday in Russia than in Turkey. It is a public holiday.
Opportunity: It is the biggest sales period of the year for the flower, cosmetics, textile and giftware sectors. Logistics should be planned months in advance.
Protocol: You must send a congratulatory message or gift to your female business partners or company employees in Russia. This is a rule of commercial courtesy.
🎖️ 4. 23rd February Defenders of the Fatherland Day
Informally celebrated as ‘Men's Day’. It is an official holiday. Celebrating male business partners strengthens business relationships.
⚠️ Important Russian Fact: ‘Working Saturday’
In Russia, if public holidays fall on a weekday (e.g. Tuesday), Monday is also declared a holiday, and that holiday is compensated for by working the previous Saturday.
When trading with Russia, you should adjust your calendar according to the Russian Federation's ‘Production Calendar’ (Proizvodstvenny Kalendar), not Turkey's. Otherwise, your goods may be held up at customs for days, or your bank transfers may be pending for weeks.
Here are the critical periods we at RFCONS recommend you pay attention to:
❄️ 1. Major New Year Holiday (1st to 10th of January)
In Russia, New Year is not just one day, but an official holiday lasting approximately 10 days.
Business Life Stops: Banks, government offices and businesses are completely closed.
Logistics Warning: If your goods enter customs at the end of December and the process is not completed, they will remain in customs (warehousing) until mid-January. This means very high storage costs.
Recommendation: Avoid making critical shipments and payments after the 20th of December.
🌸 2. May Holidays (Early May)
The ‘May Holidays’ (Mayskiye Prazdniki) are famous in Russia.
1 May (Labour Day) and 9 May (Victory Day) are public holidays.
The government usually combines the days in between as well. It may be difficult to reach your Russian counterparts in the first half of May; most people go out of town (to their dachas).
💐 3. 8 March International Women's Day
This is a much more important and significant holiday in Russia than in Turkey. It is a public holiday.
Opportunity: It is the biggest sales period of the year for the flower, cosmetics, textile and giftware sectors. Logistics should be planned months in advance.
Protocol: You must send a congratulatory message or gift to your female business partners or company employees in Russia. This is a rule of commercial courtesy.
🎖️ 4. 23rd February Defenders of the Fatherland Day
Informally celebrated as ‘Men's Day’. It is an official holiday. Celebrating male business partners strengthens business relationships.
⚠️ Important Russian Fact: ‘Working Saturday’
In Russia, if public holidays fall on a weekday (e.g. Tuesday), Monday is also declared a holiday, and that holiday is compensated for by working the previous Saturday.
- Therefore, there are weeks in Russia when banks and offices are open on Saturdays. It is necessary to keep track of the calendar.
Employment
The Most Challenging Aspect of Investing in Russia: Employment and Human Resources
Establishing a factory or managing a construction site in the Russian Federation is not merely a technical process. The key to success lies in establishing the right human resources and managing them in accordance with Russia's complex Labour Code (Trudovoy Kodeks).
At RFCONS, we act as a strategic partner for Turkish companies investing in Russia, not only during the company formation stage but also in personnel planning, work permits, and payroll processes.
1. Critical Decision: Turkish Personnel or Local Personnel?
The first dilemma for investors is: ‘Should I bring my own team from Turkey, or should I find personnel in Russia?’
The answer to this question lies in cost and legislation:
Bringing Turkish Personnel: Advantageous in terms of quality and work discipline, but subject to ‘quota’ restrictions and visa costs.
Hiring Local Staff: There is no language barrier and no visa costs, but mastering Russian work culture and finding the right talent is difficult.
The RFCONS Approach: We generally recommend a Hybrid Model. Managers and key technical personnel should be from Turkey (with VKS status), while intermediate staff and blue-collar workers should be sourced locally (or from CIS countries).
2. The Nightmare of the Construction and Manufacturing Sector: The ‘Quota’ System
Russia limits the employment of foreign workers through quotas determined annually on a sectoral basis. Companies planning to bring in hundreds of workers, especially for construction projects, cannot start the project if they have not submitted a ‘Quota Application’ months in advance.
Quota-Free Options: Citizens of Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, and Kazakhstan (Eurasian Union) can work without quotas or visas. Using CIS personnel on your construction sites is a strategic move.
3. VKS: The Golden Key for White-Collar Workers
You do not need to wait for quotas for your engineers, factory managers, and senior executives.
VKS (Highly Qualified Specialist) Visa: Personnel contracted for an annual salary above a certain threshold (Gross ~2 Million Rubles/year) can obtain a 3-year work permit within 15-20 days. At RFCONS, we manage the VKS processes for your key personnel on a turnkey basis.
4. Russian Labour Law is No Joke
Russian labour law is extremely **‘employee-friendly’**.
Dismissing staff is not as easy as it is in Turkey.
Failure to pay salaries on time results in criminal liability.
Occupational health and safety (OHS) inspections are very strict and penalties are severe.
An incorrectly drafted employment contract or an incomplete ‘Work Book’ (Trudovaya Knijka) record can tie up your company in court for years.
5. RFCONS HR Solutions
We take the HR burden off your shoulders when setting up your factory or construction site:
A. Recruitment
We offer our extensive database to find experienced engineers, accountants, sales managers or administrative staff who speak Turkish/Russian in the Russian market.
B. Outstaffing
If you do not yet have legal personality in Russia or do not wish to assume legal liability (payroll, tax, Labour Code risks), we can hire personnel through RFCONS partner companies and invoice you for the ‘service’. This is the safest starting method for foreign companies.
C. Immigration and Permit Management
Submitting quota applications.
Obtaining work visas and residence permits.
- Workplace safety records for construction site personnel.
"Have you completed your staffing planning?" "How many Turkish and how many local personnel do you need for your project in Russia? Let us prepare the quota and VKS cost table for you."[Request Employment Cost Analysis]
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) and Expert Answers
We answered the most frequently asked questions from entrepreneurs who want to do business, set up a company, or work with Russia, in light of RFCONS expertise and current legislation.
Question: Given the current sanctions and banking issues, how do you manage receiving/sending payments from Russia? Answer: Currently, the most sensitive point in trade is financial transfers. Although there are SWIFT restrictions, trade hasn't stopped; it has simply changed methods. We manage money transfer processes legally through ruble-denominated trade, alternative channels like Emlak Bank, and our local partners. Different routes may be required for each sector and amount.
👉 Be sure to read our "2025 Russia Money Transfer Guide," where we explain in detail which banks we work with and current transfer methods.
Question: Does having your company headquarters in Irkutsk affect my operations in regions like Moscow or St. Petersburg? Answer: Absolutely not. As RFCONS, having our headquarters in Irkutsk allows us to leverage the logistical strength of Siberia, but our operations cover the entire Russian Federation. We provide customs clearance, supply, and inspection services at every point, from Vladivostok to Kaliningrad, and from Moscow to Sochi. We are a company that conducts "field operations" on a national scale, not a regional one.
👉 You can review our service network and success stories throughout Russia in our article "From Irkutsk to All of Russia: RFCONS Service Network".
Question: How can I confirm the reliability of a buyer or seller company in Russia? Answer: "Company verification" (Due Diligence) is vital in the Russian market. Simply checking their website is not enough. We verify the company's tax number (INN) and check court records, debt status, activity period, and whether they are on a blacklist from official state sources. We conduct physical visits to their factories when necessary.
👉 We have explained our 5-step verification system to protect against fraud in our article "Commercial Intelligence and Reliability Verification in Russia".
Question: Are the customs and EAC certificate processes difficult for exporting from Türkiye to Russia? Answer: Russian customs regulations are strict and do not tolerate errors. Your products cannot pass through customs without an EAC Certificate (Declaration or Certificate), which is mandatory, especially within the scope of the Eurasian Customs Union. We determine which certificate is required and its cost in advance, based on your product's GTIP code, preventing unexpected expenses.
👉 Which products require an EAC certificate and how does the process work? Find the answer in our article "Russian Customs Legislation and EAC Certificate Guide".
Question: I want to source raw materials (timber, coal, grain, etc.) from Russia, how do you start the process?
Answer: Russia is a raw material paradise, but finding the right supplier can be difficult. We don't work like a "classic intermediary". We negotiate directly with manufacturers on your behalf, manage the sampling process, and personally inspect the quality of the goods during loading.
👉 We have detailed our supply chain management and sectoral opportunities in our article "Product Sourcing and Purchasing Strategies from Russia".
🛂 Visa and Work Permits
Question: What type of visa do I need to do business with Russia? Answer: It depends on your purpose:
Business Visa: Required for trade fair visits, client meetings, and contracts. However, you cannot actually work or receive a salary in Russia with this visa.
Work Visa: Required for being in an office in Russia, using signing authority, and working on a payroll.
E-Visa: Valid for Turkish citizens, obtained quickly online, and allowing stays of up to 16 days. Ideal for urgent meetings.
Question: Can I work on a construction site or in an office with a business visa? Answer: Absolutely not. This is a crime according to Russian immigration laws. Personnel caught working with a business visa will be deported, and the company will face high fines.
Question: What is a VKS (Highly Qualified Specialist) Visa?
Answer: This is a special work permit granted to specialists with annual salaries above a certain amount, providing a 3-year residence permit outside of quotas. It also covers family members. At RFCONS, we manage this process for your senior executives.
🏢 Company Formation and Market Entry
Question: Do I need to establish a company in Russia to do business there? Answer: No, you can export directly. However, if you want to participate in government tenders, trade in local currency, or establish your own distribution network, incorporation (localization) is advantageous.
Question: As a Turkish citizen, can I establish a company in Russia with 100% ownership in my name? Answer: Yes. You do not need a Russian partner. A Turkish citizen or a Turkish company can own 100% of a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Russia.
Question: How long does it take to establish a company and what is the cost? Answer: If the documents are complete, the official establishment takes an average of 5-7 business days. However, opening a bank account, obtaining seals, and notarization processes can take 2-3 weeks to become operational.
Question: Can I immediately become the General Manager of my company? Answer: There is a technical detail here: The Turkish citizen who will be the General Manager must have a Work Permit at the time of appointment. Since permission cannot be obtained before the company is established, a temporary Russian General Manager is usually appointed during the establishment phase, and the Turkish manager is appointed after the work permit is issued.
💰 Banking, Finance and Money Transfer
Question: Is it possible to transfer money from Russia to Türkiye? (SWIFT Issue)
Answer: Yes, trade continues, but the channels have changed. Payments can be received without problems through banks not under sanctions and generally with the Ruble-TL exchange rate. Emlak Katılım and some private banks are active in this regard.
Question: Can I transfer profits (dividends) from my company in Russia to Türkiye? Answer: Theoretically yes, but due to the "Unfriendly Countries" list and capital control restrictions, foreign currency outflows above a certain amount may be subject to special permits. Since regulations change frequently, it is essential to obtain up-to-date information.
Question: Can I open a bank account as soon as I establish the company? Answer: Russian banks have very strict "Know Your Customer" (KYC) procedures. For companies with foreign partners, the review process can take up to a week, and the General Manager must be present at the bank in person to sign.
🚛 Logistics, Customs and Certification
Question: Can I ship products without an EAC Certificate (Gost)? Answer: No. An EAC Certificate of Conformity or Declaration is mandatory for exports to Russia and Eurasian Customs Union countries (Belarus, Kazakhstan, etc.).
Batch-Based: Obtained for a single shipment.
Mass Production: Valid for all shipments from 1 to 5 years.
Question: I want to send a sample; will it clear customs if sent by cargo? Answer: In Russia, it is very difficult to ship commercial samples by individual cargo (DHL/FedEx, etc.); the products may be held at customs. For samples, you must work with companies that provide "Door to Door" logistics services and have paid all customs duties.
Question: What happens if my products get stuck at Russian customs? Answer: Russian customs operates on the principle of "inspection is paramount," not "declaration is paramount." Document errors mean high storage costs. Our recommendation is not to wait for a solution when a crisis arises, but to conduct a pre-check of the documents (HS Code, Packing List, Label) with RFCONS before the goods are shipped.
🤝 RFCONS Service Scope
Question: Do you only provide consultancy, or do you also manage the operation? Answer: We provide "practical consultancy." We don't just guide you; if you wish, we can talk to your customs agent, prepare your contract, and conduct negotiations with potential buyers in Russia on your behalf.
Question: I don't speak Russian, can I trade with Russia? Answer: Absolutely. RFCONS is here for that. We manage all correspondence, contracts, and negotiation processes with our bilingual team, eliminating language barriers.
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Get in touch with us
If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
+7 906 918 06 06
Address: Russian Federation, Siberian Region, Irkutsk City, Lermontova 275
info@rfcons.ru
info@rfcons.ru
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