Expat Experiences in Russia

This guide was written prior to Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Travel to Russia is currently not advisable due to the area’s volatile political situation.

When considering a move to a new city, there are few things more valuable than hearing real-life stories from other expats who have already lived there. Please contact us if you live or have lived in Russia or Moscow and would like to share your experiences.

Eva is an Indonesian expat who moved to Moscow in 2015. Although adjusting to a new culture may not always be easy, she shares some interesting stories about people and making friends, as well as insights on transport and healthcare in Moscow. Read about Eva’s expat experiences in the Russian Federation.
Yulia is a world traveller who has had various expat experiences. Originally from Russia, she shares what life in Moscow is like in this 2020 interview. She talks about the city that never sleeps, its metro, Russia’s friendly people and the many activities to do. Read about Yulia’s experience living in Moscow .
After some time in a long-distance relationship, British expat Stephen Matthews made the move to Moscow to be with his wife in 2005. A few years down the line, he has settled into his job at an international law firm and has two children. Read more about his expat experiences in Russia.
Polly Barks is an American expat living in Russia. She moved to Moscow in 2010 to work as an English teacher. Despite the traffic jams and cold weather, she loves the experience of living in one of the world’s largest cities. Read more about her expat life in Moscow.
Northern Lad is a British expat who moved to Moscow in September 2012 for work. He enjoys life in the city, which he says has plenty of sights to see and is generally a safe place to be. Read more about his expat experiences in Russia.
Laurent Fontaine, a French expat living in Moscow, has been a Russophile even before he could grow hair on his chest. Now all grown up and graduated, he’s capitalised on his love affair and has moved to the land fabled for its harsh weather. Find out what he has to say about his first year as an expat in Russia in this 2011 interview.
Amanda Surbey lives in Moscow with her family. Originally from Ohio, Amanda was bitten by the travel bug when she spent a summer as an exchange student in Australia. Read her 2010 interview with us for her unique take on expat life in Moscow.
Rob McDonald has been a teacher, insurance mogul, US Navy sailor and now an expat in Russia. Rob lives in St Petersburg with his wife and three parakeets. In his 2010 interview, he shares his take on expat life in Russia.
Philip Donnelly is an expat working in Russia. Read his fascinating account of his time living and teaching in Moscow, written in 2010.

Expat Health Insurance

Cigna Global Health Insurance

Moving your family abroad can be intimidating, but learning about medical options such as family health insurance early on can help you successfully settle in.

**Limited-time offer: 10%* off for life!**

Get covered today and enjoy 10%* off your health insurance policy!

Get a Free Quote

*T&Cs apply

Moving Internationally?

International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices.

Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.

Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!