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System Structure

Norway has an excellent education system and the level of general education among adults is considered to be one of the highest in the world. Education is compulsory between the ages of 6 and 16 and is divided into primary school and lower secondary school. This ten-year compulsory period is known as ‘grunnskole’. Following grunnskole students can choose to continue their education at upper secondary school, where they will aim to meet the requirements of admission to university or to leave education with a vocational qualification. The different municipalities are responsible for the provision of education and schools in their area. Education is free for all children in Norway, up to and including university.

Academic year

The academic year is divided into two semesters; Autumn (mid-August to December) and Spring (January to June). State school holidays comprise a week in the autumn, a fortnight at Christmas, a week’s winter holiday in February, and around a fortnight at Easter. Schools in Norway also have a compulsory ‘Ski Day,’ when children and teachers take to the hills and forests on cross-country skis. The school day starts at around 8.30 am and finishes at 2pm when pupils are encouraged to play sports and engage in outdoor pursuits and clubs.

Higher education

Norway has a well-regarded higher education system comprising eight universities, nine specialised institutions, 25 university colleges, two national academies of art, and several private higher education institutions. The highest-ranking institutions are the University of Oslo and the University of Bergen.

Overall responsibility for higher education rests with the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research which offers a wide range of scholarships and grants to help with the country’s high living costs.

Funding

Higher education is fully funded by the state in Norway, which is now one of the few European countries to have retained a system of ‘free education for all.’ Of the Nordic countries, Norway stands alone in offering free higher education to all students, regardless of nationality. Both home and foreign students are also able to apply for help with living costs through the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund.

Courses

Norway was one of the first countries in Europe to adhere to the Bologna Process, implementing a two-tier system comprising three-year undergraduate degrees and two-year Master’s degrees. Tuition is in Norwegian although a wide range of courses across all disciplines are now taught entirely in English. A PhD in Norway takes at least three years to complete and is fully funded – the majority of doctoral students receive a monthly salary. To find out more about admission requirements consult the Norway Universities and Colleges Admission Service.

Research

Norway is committed to investment in research to develop its strong knowledge-based economy. The country’s geographical location offers unique opportunities in marine research, environmental sciences, energy, and health and attracts scientists from all over the world. The Norwegian government also invests heavily in medicine, materials science, biotechnology, and communication research programmes. The Research Council of Norway – an agency of the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research – is responsible for awarding funding to universities and individual research programmes, as well as advising on research policy.

Primary and Secondary Education

All children are entitled to 13 years of free education, ten years of which are compulsory between the ages of six and 16 (known as ‘grunnskole’). Schools are divided into:

• Primary School (barneskole): from ages six to 13
• Lower Secondary school (ungdomsskole): from ages 13 to 16.
• Upper Secondary School (videregående skole): from ages 16 to 19. Upper secondary school is optional and is separated into academic study for those who wish to attend university or vocational study/apprenticeships for students who wish to enter the workforce upon completion of their education.

Preschool

There is no formal kindergarten period in Norway but preschool, nursery, or daycare (barnehage) is offered to children aged 0 to 5. Compulsory education is free in Norway but parents are required to pay a monthly fee for their children to attend preschool, which can be lower in state-run centres. Norwegian preschool places great emphasis on play-led learning and children spend much of their time outdoors, in all weathers.

Geographical Variation

According to Numbeo’s annual Cost of Living Survey, Norway is the fourth most expensive country in the world. Rents, food, and alcohol are particularly pricey and it is not unheard of to pay up to NOK 11,279.90 (£867.33) per month for a studio apartment in Oslo. However, newcomers can take comfort from the fact that the typical worker earns a higher salary (average NOK 614,000/£47,389.14 per month) in Norway than in any other country in the world, which helps to mitigate the high living costs. The most expensive areas to live in are Oslo, Bærem, Stavanger, and Bergen with living costs being lower in rural areas. Tourist areas near Norway’s fjords in the west of the country are very expensive and should be avoided long term.

Accommodation

The majority of Norwegians own their homes so the rental market is fairly limited, with most lettings agents catering to tourists and short-term lets. Consequently, suitable rental properties can be difficult to find in places like Oslo, Bergen, and Stavanger. Prospective expats are advised to search for property online at sites such as Finn or through newspaper classifieds before relocating to Norway. Despite the soaring costs of property in Norway, purchasing a home can sometimes work out cheaper than renting long-term. There are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Norway and house purchase depends on mortgage eligibility.

Rental deposit

A deposit of up to six month’s rent is required at the beginning of your tenancy agreement. The landlord is required to put the deposit into an interest-bearing account until the tenant leaves the property.

Property tax

Property taxes are imposed by each municipality and are calculated according to the value of the property. Tax rates range from 0.2% to 0.7%, depending on the municipality. Local taxes for refuse removal and maintenance – the equivalent of ‘council tax’ in the UK – are generally included in your monthly rent.

Utilities

Norwegians use electricity rather than gas to heat their homes and there is a broad range of companies to choose from. Usage is at its peak during the harsh winter months, and, depending on the size of the property, new expats should be prepared for an eye-wateringly large bill at the end of the winter period. Water costs are kept low and tap water is safe to drink in Norway. Fast and reliable broadband is available in even the remotest areas and companies such as state-owned Telenor offer combined mobile and broadband packages.

The basic cost of utilities (gas, water, electricity, refuse) for an 85m² city centre apartment is around NOK 2,198.09 (£169.24) per month. Broadband starts at around NOK 554.89 (£42.72 ) per month.

Healthcare and medical costs

Norway’s healthcare system is ranked 11^th in the world by the World Health Organisation. Although health provision is heavily subsidised by the state, all residents over 16 must contribute through a graded national insurance scheme, whereby patients pay for healthcare through taxation and extra fees for visits to the doctor and other treatment up to a capped limit each year. When the limit has been reached all healthcare is free of charge for the rest of that calendar year. Expats of any nationality are required to pay into the national insurance scheme after being employed in Norway for more than one year.

Shopping

Norway offers a wide range of shopping options, from high-end department and homewares stores selling trendy Scandinavian furniture to smaller artisanal shops offering anything from jewellery to reindeer skins. However, everything comes at a price in Norway and a shopping trip can be prohibitively expensive. In terms of supermarkets, the biggest chains include Coop and Centra, and budget outlets such as KIWI (German discounters Aldi and Lidl have yet to gain ground in Norway). Alcohol is especially expensive and anything stronger than beer can only be purchased from the state-owned alcohol retailer Vinmonopolet.

Sales tax

A sales tax (VAT) of 25% is added to most goods and services in Norway. A reduced VAT rate applies to food, transport, and a range of other items.

Price guide

• Rent 1-bedroom apartment in city centre – NOK 11,279.90 (£869.03)
• Rent 1-bedroom apartment outside city centre – NOK 9,052.12 (£697.39)
• Price of apartment per square metre in city centre – NOK 69,066.33 (£5320.64)
• Price of apartment per square metre outside city centre – NOK 48,453.09 (£3,732.03)
• Loaf of bread – NOK 30.91 (£2.38)
• Milk (1 litre) – NOK 20.72 (£1.60)
• Bottled water (1.5 litre) – NOK 21.56 (£1.66)
• Draught beer (0.5 litre) – NOK 32.41 (£2.50)
• Packet of cigarettes – NOK 146.00 (£11.25)
• Petrol (1 litre) – NOK 21.34 (£1.64)
• Cinema ticket – NOK 150.00 (£11.56)

Source: www.numbeo.com (accessed August 2023)

Budgeting and saving

Norway is an expensive country where a mid-range restaurant meal with wine can set you back NOK 800 (£75) per head. It’s, therefore, a good idea to cook and entertain at home, buying groceries from inexpensive supermarkets such as Rema 1000 or KIWI. Another great way to save money is to follow the lead of 99% of Norwegians and take your own packed lunch (matpakke) to work, as buying sandwiches from shops and kiosks can cost at least NOK162 (£15) per day.

Driving

Driving is a great way to take in Norway’s wonderful scenery and roads are well maintained and congestion-free. Norwegians are known for their adherence to rules and driving is no exception –flouting of the strict traffic laws is punished by heavy fines. There are few motorways outside Oslo and most of the country is connected by a series of dual carriageways. Speed limits are 110 km/h (70mph) on some motorways and dual carriageways but are restricted to 80km/h (50mph) on the majority of roads. In built-up areas the speed limit is 50km/h (30mph) but can be as low as 30km/h (20 mph), so it’s a good idea to always be aware of road signs indicating the speed limit where you are.

Drivers from EU/EEA countries are permitted to drive in Norway without exchanging their licence. Those from outside the EU must exchange their licence by taking a practical exam after a year’s residency in the country.

Taxis

It has been said that taking a taxi in Norway is one of the world’s most expensive ways to travel. Taxis are privately operated and can charge what they like. For example, tourists have reported paying NOK 1000 (£92) for a 25km (15 mile) journey in Oslo. To cut costs, avoid taxis altogether and take advantage of Norway’s efficient, and cheaper, bus and train network.

Buses and coaches

Norway has an excellent public bus network that connects all cities and rural areas, offering a cheap way to travel. You can buy your ticket on board or purchase one-day or weekly passes from all bus and train stations. Inter-city coaches are also a comfortable and cheap way of getting around. Coaches are operated by private companies, the largest being Nor-way bussekspressen, which covers most of the country. Discounted tickets can be bought in advance online or at bus stations.

Trains

Norway has around 3,000 km of railway track, stretching from Oslo in the south up to above the Arctic Circle in the north. Norwegian State Railways (NSB) operate the modern train infrastructure, which includes efficient local trains as well as fast trains with sleeper compartments connecting all Norwegian cities and beyond to neighbouring countries.

Many train journeys offer breathtaking views of the Norwegian scenery. These include the 371 km (231 mile) Bergensbanen between Oslo and Bergen, which has been voted one of the best train rides in the world.

Trams and light rail

Oslo is the only city in Norway that has a metro system – known locally as the ‘T-Banen’ – which consists of six lines and 100 stations. The cities of Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim all have light rail/tram networks offering an efficient and cheap way to get around. Tickets for all metro and light rail networks can be purchased in railway and bus stations, where you can also buy discounted travel cards for use on all public transport in each city.

Air travel

There are 50 passenger airports in Norway, the largest and busiest being Oslo International Airport, which connects the country with hundreds of destinations around the world. Domestic air travel is well served, even in the most remote areas, however, it is expensive and those hoping for a cheaper journey should utilise the excellent train network instead. The national carrier is Norwegian with SAS and Wideroe also operating domestic and international flights from Oslo.

Other ways to get around

Norwegians are a seafaring people and, in a country where some fjords make car travel impossible, travelling by boat is a necessity rather than a choice. Car ferries and undersea tunnels carry passengers where roads cannot go and many people have to travel to work by ferry. A fantastic way to see Norway is to take a cruise with Hurtigruten, which operates ferries and steamers up and down the stunning coastline, offering glimpses of the elusive Aurora Borealis along the way.

Working hours

Norwegians typically work Monday to Friday and are supposed to do no more than 38 hours a week. However, many employees work longer hours, with some offices opening at 6 am and often not closing for the day until 6 pm. Employment laws surrounding parenthood are generous in comparison to some countries, particularly in terms of paternity leave. By law, a new mother must take nine weeks of paid leave after having a baby, while the father must take 14 weeks of paid leave before the child’s third birthday. Norway has a family-oriented culture so bosses are usually understanding about the need for parents to take paid leave days.

Holidays

Depending on the profession, most workers are entitled to at least 25 days of paid holiday per year in Norway. By law, employees must receive paid days off for national holidays with those receiving higher pay (usually double time) if they are required to work on the day in question. Norwegian employers are generally sympathetic to providing time off to workers for religious holidays, even if they are not nationally recognised events. The Sami tribe, for example, have their own celebrations which do not fall into the official national holiday calendar. However, it is not uncommon for Norwegian bosses to allow paid time off for any workers who acknowledge such events.

Public holidays

There are ten public holidays in Norway regulated by law as well as several – including Mother’s Day and Father’s Day – which are recognised by some regions. Seven of the national holidays are religious and the date can vary each year depending on the lunar cycle. There are also some ‘Flag Flying Days,’ such as Liberation Day, which is not an official holiday but flags are flown from public buildings and homes.

Public holiday dates

New Year’s Day: 1st January

Mother’s Day: 11th February

Maundy Thursday: 28th April

Good Friday: 29th March

Easter Monday: 1st April

Labour Day: 1st May

Constitution Day: 17th May

Ascension Day: 9th May

Whit Monday: 20th May

Father’s Day: 10th November

Christmas Day: 25th December

St Stephen’s Day: 26th December

Visas and eligibility

From January 1^st, 2010, Norway introduced a new Immigration Act which streamlined the process of applying for work and residency permits into one permit. The law also introduced the Early Work Start which means you can now start working in Norway before your application for a residence permit is granted.

As a rule of the new Act, parents must also prove they are able to support their families financially in Norway. Because Norway falls within the European Economic Area (EEA), jobseekers, students, and professionals from other EU/EEA countries can stay in the country without a permit or visa for up to three months. After this time a residence permit is required and expats of any nationality must sign the National Register (Folkeregisteret). For more information, consult the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI).

Tax

Norway has a reputation for being one of the most taxed countries in the world, with the tax burden being almost four times that of Hong Kong. VAT is also very high, sitting at around 25%. Tax (or Skatt), comprises VAT, income tax, and social security contributions and is collected by the central government. The tax year runs from January 1st to December 31^st and is managed by the Tax Administration or Skatteetaten. In general, the combined rate of tax is around 27% on all taxable income while higher salaries can be taxed an additional 12% above certain thresholds. The good news is that there are some tax reliefs on offer for expats, often including a reduction in national insurance contributions. For example, expats staying in Norway for less than two years can receive a 10% deduction on some taxes.

Benefits

The welfare state is a generous safety net in Norway if certain criteria are met. Sickness pay is especially generous, with employees receiving 100% of their salary for up to a year. Unemployment benefits are available for those who register with the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV) but the recipient must prove they are actively applying for jobs. Expats can also request that rights in other EU/EEA countries are transferred to Norway. EU/EEA citizens who come to Norway can claim sickness benefits if they are working in the country. For expats who have contributed to the national insurance scheme, family benefits such as child benefit are available.

Pensions

The pension age in Norway starts at 62, which is lower than most Western countries. However, many Norwegians work in some capacity until they reach 67. To be entitled to a full pension, you must have lived and worked in Norway for 40 years. The amount of pension reduces depending on the number of years not working and living in the country. Due to the high cost of living in Norway, many pensioners choose to retire abroad, where even the Norwegian minimal state pension (Minstepensjon) can stretch further than in their native country. The amount a person receives as a state pension is determined by their earnings in their working lives. To find out how much you are entitled to, check with your local NAV office.

Disability

The Norwegian Association of Disabled (NAD) acts as the voice for people with disabilities. Norway is committed to equality for all workers, regardless of their disabilities. Therefore, workplaces and schools are encouraged to provide wheelchair access and employees are treated with respect and dignity. The influence of the NAD is significant, with the group having over 15,000 members, 250 branches, and a youth organisation. The rights of disabled people are also enshrined in the Anti-Discrimination and Accessibility Act.

Organisational structure

Norway has a sophisticated and flourishing economy that relies on the country’s abundance of natural resources and heavy investment in telecommunications technology. Like other aspects of Norwegian culture, business structures adhere to the Law of Jante, whereby fairness, equality, and teamwork underpin all corporate activities. Organisations, therefore, have a very flat structure, where every worker’s opinion and input are valued equally.

Management style

Norwegian managers are seen as coaches or guides, rather than authoritarian figures. Decisions are generally made by management but only after a consensus has been reached with staff. Being deferent to superiors is not the norm – to a Norwegian, this behaviour would be seen as a trust issue and would make most managers feel uncomfortable. Indeed, challenging an ineffectual manager in a transparent way through open channels is commonplace in Norway. Norwegians are known for their honesty, so if there is a problem then it will be discussed at all levels of the business until a solution is found.

Formality

Business in Norway is generally conducted in a friendly, open, and informal atmosphere. Titles are quickly dispensed with after the first meeting. Managers are almost always addressed by their first names and it’s important that everyone feels at ease and part of the team.

Relationships

Norwegian workplaces are relaxed and flexible. However, Norwegians are also very goal-oriented and like to get on with the job so that they can get home to their families. Attempting to impress the boss by working long hours or being over-competitive would be viewed suspiciously. Norwegians are considered to be quite reserved and public displays of anger are rare. Teamwork is paramount in all business settings so it’s a good idea to show that you can work collaboratively with your Norwegian counterparts.

Dress Code

Business attire can be quite casual and jeans and t-shirts are acceptable in many workplaces. More ‘formal’ professions may require men to wear a smart suit, shirt, and tie and women either trousers or a skirt suit. Whatever the industry, it’s a good idea to be prepared for the extreme winter weather when leaving the office by investing in sturdy shoes and padded outerwear.

Greetings

Norwegians value their personal space and a handshake is the accepted greeting in a business setting. Touching or hugging would be considered odd and is usually reserved for friends and family.

Punctuality

Punctuality is highly valued in Norway and there is an unspoken rule that you should be on time. However, most workplaces allow for flexible working (called ‘flexitid’) where workers are expected to be at work between 10 am and 2 pm. If you have family commitments or are late due to a personal situation you will not be reprimanded – most managers are very understanding of people’s family commitments. If you are going to be late, it’s a good idea to call ahead, particularly if you are due at a meeting.

Meetings

Meetings are generally informal and everyone is given an opportunity to speak. Norwegians like to get to the point, so meetings don’t generally veer from the agenda or involve much small talk. However, reaching a consensual decision on the topic at hand is very important in a Norwegian business setting, so meetings tend to go on until everyone is happy with the outcome.

Cultural sensitivity

Norway is considered to be a class-free society and there are very few rich people and very few poor people. Any competitive behaviour or attempts at one-upmanship would therefore be frowned upon. Norwegians are also very patriotic and do not take kindly to being compared with their Scandinavian neighbours.

Business language

Most business is conducted in Norwegian. However, most people speak a very high level of English and can switch between languages in the presence of foreigners. Learning a few Norwegian greetings and phrases will help you to break the ice.

System Structure

Russia has traditionally invested heavily in education, which is considered to be of a high standard. It is estimated that the country has an adult literacy rate of 99.7% and the education system was ranked 23 in the world in 2021. Education in Russia is compulsory for all children between the age of 6 and 15. On completion of primary school at age 10, children continue to secondary school until age 15. At this point, pupils have the option to carry on in further education to gain the diploma necessary for university admission. All schools in Russia are state-funded and managed by the Ministry of Education and Science. There are very few private schools (less than 1%) although major cities such as Moscow and Saint Petersburg have a choice of international schools for expat children.

Academic Year

The Russian school year starts in September and is divided into four terms. Each term ends with a holiday (the first week of November, the first two weeks of January, the last week of March, and three months in summer), and the school year finishes at the end of May. The school day generally begins at 8.30 am and ends at 4 pm. Children have their lunch at school. The university academic year begins in September and ends in May, with two semesters (Autumn and Spring).

Higher Education

Russia has around 650 public higher education institutions and over 200 private universities. Higher education is highly accessible – a UNESCO report estimated that more than half of the country’s adult population has attained tertiary education, twice as high as the OECD average. Russia’s highest ranked universities are the Lomonosov Moscow State University and Saint Petersburg State University, which ranks 15^th among the BRIC countries. University courses are taught in Russian, although some institutions have introduced some courses (usually Master’s degrees) taught in English in order to attract international students, who comprise around 5% of the student body. Most Russian universities have individual admissions requirements and there is no central application process. International students who do not speak Russian are required to complete a ‘pre-academic year’ and pass an entrance exam in order to enroll.

Funding

State higher education is free to Russian citizens, with the exception of some courses. Foreign students are required to pay tuition fees which are relatively low – around £2,500 to £5,000 per year – compared to the UK and USA. Tuition fees may vary from one institution to another. A number of scholarships are available to foreign students such as the Russian Federation State Scholarship which can help cover fees and living expenses.

Courses

Russian universities offer a wide range of courses, from law, arts, and languages to computing, mathematics, and sciences. Higher education in Russia has undergone significant reform since the country signed up to the Bologna Process in 2003, bringing the system in line with the majority of European countries. There are now two levels of higher education: Bachelors (Bakalavrs) degrees, which take around 4 years to complete, and Masters (Magistrs) degrees, taking 2 years to complete. After a Master’s degree, students can continue to study towards a doctoral degree: Kandidat Nauk (the first level, equivalent to a PhD) and Doktor Nauk degree (the highest level).

Research

Research is well funded in Russia, with particular investment in scientific and technology fields. The major funding body is the Russian Foundation for Basic Research (RFBR) which is a self-governed state organisation supporting scientific research.

Primary and Secondary Education

Children begin primary education at age 6 and follow a core curriculum of Russian, mathematics, science, foreign languages, history, politics, arts, and sports. On completion of primary school (around age 10), students continue their basic general education at secondary school which is divided into; general secondary schools and vocational/technical schools (Technikum Kolledz Uchilishe). Upon completion of upper-secondary school (age 17/18), students are awarded the Attestat o Srednem (Polnom) Obshchem Obrazovanii (Certificate of Secondary Complete General Education, School Leaving Certificate), which is necessary for admission into the university.

Pre-school

Preschools in Russia generally accept children from the age of two and a half, although some private nurseries will accept younger children. Russia has a number of free, municipal kindergartens, however these are heavily oversubscribed. Most expats choose to send their children to one of the many private international preschools situated in the larger cities. You can find more information about private preschools in Russia here.

Geographical variation

The cost of living in Russia is considered low compared to many Western nations. However, living costs depend entirely on where (and how) you live in Russia. Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Volgograd are the most expensive places to live. Even those on generous international salaries will find they pay through the nose for luxury apartments, eating out, and socialising in these cities. Accommodation takes the largest chunk of salaries, although rental prices are low compared to some parts of Europe. The Russian Ministry of Education and Science estimates that international students, teaching staff, and academics would need 23,650 RUB (£209) per month to cover living costs (not including rent) in Russia. Most Western expats will find food, utilities, and transport in Russia to be significantly lower than what they are used to.

Accommodation

There are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Russia, however, most expats choose to rent a property before tackling the rather bureaucratic property market. Rental prices depend on the area and type of property but as a general rule, properties will be significantly more expensive the closer they are to the city centre, particularly in Moscow. Expats should get used to the idea of apartment living in Russia, as most detached houses are reserved either for the very wealthy or those living in remote areas. Apartments in Russia range from pre-revolutionary style (with larger rooms and antique fixtures), Soviet-era apartments (small, often communal apartments in large tower blocks), or ‘western-style’ apartments (renovated apartments with ‘Western’ fittings and less emphasis on communal living).

Depending on the property, rental prices in Russia are low compared to some European countries. An average apartment in Moscow or Saint Petersburg city centre will cost around 31,947.79 RUB (£254.95) per month and a more luxurious ‘western’ apartment around 177,108.70 RUB (£1,414.10 per month). To rent or buy property in Russia, it is almost essential to use an estate agent, so expect to pay a hefty percentage in fees.

Rental deposit

A deposit of one month’s rent is usually required by Russian landlords, to insure against damages to the property. In fixed period rental contracts, a tenant must give one to three months’ notice before vacating the property.

Property Tax

All homeowners are liable to pay a property tax of around 2.2% of the market value of their property in Russia. However, this is covered by the landlord so no payments are necessary for those renting a property.

Utilities

The cost of utilities is comparably high in Russia, particularly in Moscow. There are a number of electricity and gas providers, such as Moscow Region Energy Company and Mosgaz. Electricity and gas are calculated by meter and paid monthly. Water is supplied by state-run and private companies such as Rosvodkanal. Tap water is not considered suitable to drink so most people use a filter or buy bottled water. The majority of urban apartments are well set up for broadband connections and most Russian providers offer a range of combined broadband/phone/TV packages.

The cost of basic utilities (electricity, gas, water, refuse removal) for an expat living alone in an 85m² apartment in Russia is around 8,228.82 RUB (£65.62) per month, with 537.57 RUB (£4.27) per month for a broadband connection.

TV Licence

Russia has no TV licence fee. Russian TV is dominated by channels that are either run directly by the state or owned by companies with close links to the government. However, most major cable and satellite TV providers offer English-language channels along with some standard local Russian channels. You will typically find BBC, CNN, Eurosport, and Discovery within most TV packages.

Healthcare and medical costs

Healthcare in Russia is considered to be of poor quality, with a lack of facilities and long waiting times for medical treatment. Although the government has introduced positive reforms in recent years, Russia’s healthcare system has been designed one of the worst in the industrialised world by the World Health Organisation (WHO). In theory, healthcare is universally free to all Russian citizens and expats with permanent residency. However, the system has been beset by corruption in recent years and many find themselves paying for preferential treatment. There are a number of private hospitals and medical facilities in larger cities such as Moscow and Saint Petersburg which offer a higher standard of care. All those without permanent residency status should take out a private health insurance policy before travelling to Russia.

Shopping

The retail landscape in Russia has undergone huge changes in recent years, with modern shopping malls and designer stores springing up all over the country. There is now a wealth of western chain stores in Russian cities, such as Marks and Spencer, Zara, Topshop and Mango, but expats may find prices for clothing and accessories to be much higher than at home. Grocery shopping in Russia has likewise gone through an enormous transformation and there is now a vast range of supermarket chains to choose from such as Karusel, Auchan, and DIXY. Shoppers should be aware that the price of imported produce, alcohol, and groceries will be significantly higher than home-grown Russian brands.

Sales Tax

The standard VAT rate charged on goods and services in Russia is 20%. Certain goods are exempt from VAT, such as basic food staples (bread, milk, etc.), children’s clothing and shoes, medicines, and some printed publications.

Price Guide

• Rent 1-bedroom apartment in city centre – 31,947.79 RUB (£256.30)
• Rent 1-bedroom apartment outside city centre – 21,389.99 RUB (£171.60)
• Price of apartment per square metre in city centre – 177,108.70 RUB (£1,411.99)
• Price of apartment per square metre outside city centre – 127,176.78 RUB (£1,020.46)
• Loaf of bread – 47.27RUB (£0.38)
• Milk (1 litre) –  78.39 RUB (£0.63)
• Bottled water (1.5 litre) – 47.64 RUB (£0.38)
• Draught beer (0.5 litre) –  70.61 RUB (£0.57)
• Packet of cigarettes – 200.00 RUB (£1.61)
• Petrol (1 litre) – 51.88 RUB (£0.42)
• Cinema ticket – 400.00 RUB (£3.21)

Source: www.numbeo.com (accessed August 2023)

Budgeting and Savings

It is possible to live frugally in Russia by shopping around, buying Russian brands and groceries, and avoiding tourist and/or expats areas. Russians do not eat out often so restaurants can be very expensive, although many offer cheaper lunch deals.

Driving

Russia’s huge expanse is well connected by a network of motorways and secondary roads. However, roads outside of Moscow and Saint Petersburg can be poorly maintained so care should be taken to avoid potholes and fissures in the road surface. Russian drivers are famous for their chaotic and aggressive driving style, so only confident expat drivers should consider taking to the road. Federal motorways connect all major cities and towns and can be identified by the ‘M’ prefix, although some more remote places are better reached by rail or aeroplane.

Motorways in and around Moscow and Saint Petersburg are heavily congested, with lengthy traffic jams in rush hour. Using the country’s efficient public transport is the preferred choice for those in a hurry. Speed limits are 100km/h (60mph) on motorways, 90km/h (50mph) on secondary roads, and 60km/h (40mph) in built up areas. Foreigners staying in Russia for up to six months are permitted to drive with an International Driving Permit (IDP). All foreign nationals intending to stay longer must apply for a Russian driving licence.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available in Russia although many are unlicensed. The government has taken steps to regulate drivers, however, the lack of official taxis continues to be a problem, with unsafe vehicles transporting passengers at inflated prices (particularly foreigners). Official taxis cannot be stopped in the street so the best way to avoid being ripped off by unscrupulous drivers is to pre-book your taxi from a reputable company such as Welcome Taxi and agree on a price before starting your journey.

Buses

Russia’s extensive bus services are run by a mix of private and public companies. Buses are a cheap way to get around Russia’s major cities. Information about timetables and routes tends to be scant so if in doubt, you can ask about bus schedules at the local tourist information office or in train stations. Tickets can be bought on board (with cash only) or from the many kiosks marked with the ‘proezdnyve bilety’ (public transport tickets) sign located outside metro and train stations. Bus tickets are also valid for metro and tram networks.

Coaches

Coach travel is a cheap and basic way to see the sights in Russia. However, due to Russia’s size, reaching your destination by coach may take many days. There are a number of coach tour operators which connect some European countries to Russia, such as Eurolines, which operate in the west of the country, and Leger.

Trains

The Russian rail network is the second longest and most extensive in the world (after China), with trains serving almost every town and city. Russia’s vast rail infrastructure is divided into 17 regional railways running fast intercity trains and local services which although slower, are punctual to the second. The state-owned Russian Railways (RZD) is the largest rail company and runs services across vast distances, connecting Russia with the rest of Europe. Discounted tickets can be bought in advance at the RZD website.

For the more adventurous, the Trans-Siberian Railway – the longest single railway in the world – offers an epic six-day journey connecting Moscow to the Russian Far East, Mongolia, and China.

Trams and Light Rail

Metro is the most popular form of urban transport in Russia and there are extensive underground systems in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Novosibirsk, Samara, and Yekaterinburg. Tickets can be bought from kiosks or manned booths situated inside and outside stations. Most large cities are covered by efficient tram and trolleybus networks which offer a low cost way to get around.

Air Travel

Due to Russia’s size, air travel is the quickest way to travel between cities. There are 270 airports in Russia, with Moscow’s Sheremetyevo and Domodedovo International Airports being the largest and busiest. Aeroflot is the country’s largest airline and there are over 100 other international and domestic airlines to choose from, such as Rossiya, offering cheap internal flights between all major cities. The average price of a one-way plane ticket between Moscow and Saint Petersburg is 5,200 RUB (£46) with a journey time of around 1.5 hours.

Other ways to get around

Russia is connected by ferry to Finland, Sweden, Korea, and Japan and tickets can be booked through AFerry. Although Russia is a vast country, cycling is becoming an ever more popular way to beat the horrendous traffic in cities. Moscow’s Department of Transport has recently pledged to install 700km of bike lanes across the city, although those choosing to cycle in Russia should be acutely aware of the country’s rather erratic drivers.

Working hours

Under Russian Labour Law, employees cannot work more than 40 hours per week. Most employees work 9-5 Monday to Friday. People under 16 can work no more than 16 hours a week (five hours for disabled workers). There are also restricted hours for those working at night. Overtime is not permitted for those under 18 or for pregnant women. For more details, visit the website.

Holidays

Holiday entitlement in Russia is on a par with most European countries with workers granted 28 calendar days (including weekends) of annual leave a year. This equates to around 20 working days of paid leave. Under Russian Labour law, women are entitled to 140 days of fully paid maternity leave (70 before birth and 70 after). However, workers can return to their jobs during maternity leave, which can be extended to a maximum of three years.

Public holidays

There are 12 paid public holidays in Russia. Each major city also has events to mark its official founding.

Public holiday dates

New Year’s Day: 1st January

Bank Holidays: 2nd to 8th January

Orthodox Christmas Day: 7th January

Defender of the Fatherland Day: 23rd February

Women’s Day: 8th March

Labour Day: 1st May

Victory Day: 9th May

Russia Day: 12th June

Day of Unity: 4h November

City Day: Varies between cities.

Visas and eligibility to work

Under Russian law, there are certain nationalities that qualify for visa waivers for trips usually up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Most European countries fall outside of this remit so most EU, USA, and Australian nationals will require a visa which must be applied for before travelling to Russia. It can take several weeks to process visas, especially during busy periods, so make sure you apply for one well in advance of your trip. There are nine types of visa to apply for in Russia. Before you travel it is advisable to contact the Russian Embassy in your home country to check which visa is most appropriate for you.

Tax

In Russia, the tax year runs from 1st January to 31st December. Tax returns are generally due on the 30^th of April of the year following the tax year. Foreign nationals may have to file a departure tax return a month before they leave Russia and must pay tax if they are residing and employed in the country for 183 days or more. The tax rate is set at 13% on the income of most workers. For foreign nationals in Russia for less than 183 days, this jumps to 30%. Russian employers are required to deduct tax and national insurance from workers’ salaries each month and companies are subject to Federal and Regional taxes. Value Added Tax (VAT) in Russia is set at 18% which is reduced to 10% for children’s food, clothing, and medicines.

Pensions

Since 2002, pensions in Russia have undergone huge reform to create a multi-pillar system. Public pensions are paid for by workers contributing 26% of pay in social security tax. Basic pensions are linked to inflation and are broadly available to men aged 60 and women aged 55. Workers can also save privately through non-state pensions. Foreign workers are usually exempt from making pension contributions if they are on a six-month contract or are highly skilled.

Benefits

Russia is considered to have a limited welfare state and benefits system compared with many Western democracies. Since the fall of the Soviet Union, the country has moved away from centralised welfare. Healthcare, however, is free, but workers are required to pay national insurance contributions to cover the state-run national health system. The maximum unemployment benefit is around 4,900 RUB (£44) a week which is just below the average level of pay in many sectors.

Disability

Russia ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in 2012. Since that time, the rights of disabled people and workers have improved, albeit gradually, across most industries in Russia. Improved access to buildings and public transport is noticeable and major events such as the Paralympic Games in 2012 have brought the issue into the public consciousness. There is still a long way to go to bring the county into line with much of Western Europe but there does seem to be a growing commitment to protecting the rights of disabled people in Russia.

Organisational Structure

While some observers say the Russian organisational structure still carries the weight of the Soviet era, evidence of a more liberal and inclusive style has emerged in recent years, particularly among new businesses. The country’s post-Soviet move towards capitalism means that Russia now has many more entrepreneurs, with a vast number of new and progressive business ventures sprouting up at a terrific rate. However, on the whole, businesses in Russia remain strictly hierarchical. Expats used to a more consensual style will find that the majority of economic and political power is in the hands of a few individuals, with a central powerful figure and a small group of trusted advisors. When engaging in negotiations with Russian businesses, it is important to approach the most senior person if you wish to move a deal along quickly.

Management Style

Management styles in Russia are generally dependent on the seniority and age of managers. Those brought up in the Soviet era tend to have a more autocratic style, issuing direct orders to subordinates with very little debate. Younger, post-Soviet managers have adopted a more westernised style, allowing for more consensus and networking within a team. However, in general, Russian managers take on an authoritarian role, with major decisions being made by the most powerful people in the company. Managers are expected to manage in Russia, giving precise and detailed instructions to subordinates. Inclusive or ‘caring’ management styles are often viewed as weak within Russian workplace culture.

Formality

Russian business culture is highly structured and formal. Titles are always used between associates who don’t know each other well so it’s a good idea to introduce yourself with your title (in your own language is fine) and surname. Russians rarely use humour or informal chitchat in a business setting. Cracking jokes with new colleagues may make you seem untrustworthy, especially if you are discussing important matters. 

Relationships

Harmonious relationships between workers are highly prized in Russian companies. Teams are expected to work closely together under the authority of the manager. There remains a suspicion of outsiders in Russian society, so coworkers will often have known each other and worked together for many years. Moving from role to role within different teams would be unusual – once a group of people have worked successfully on a project, they tend to stick together on future projects.

Getting to know your Russian counterparts as best you can is key to forging new business and working relationships. Russians prefer to do business face-to-face and communication is expected to be calm and respectful. Listening intently and taking time to silently mull things over is a prominent feature of Russian culture, so don’t be put off if you are met with a wall of silence once you have finished speaking – it is most likely that people are just processing the information.

Dress Code

Dressing smartly is a sign of wealth and power in Russia. Men will usually wear a smart suit, shirt and tie and women a business suit (either trousers or skirt) with a blouse or shirt. Dressing expensively will give you more credibility in a Russian business setting. Sloppy or casual clothing would be frowned upon and mark you out as a person of little influence. Also, bear in mind that Russian winters can be exceptionally cold, so make sure you have a warm overcoat, hat, and gloves.

Greetings

A firm handshake is the accepted business greeting in Russia, for both men and women, along with a greeting for the appropriate time of day dobraye utra (good morning), dobryy den (good afternoon) or dobryy vecher (good evening). A man and a woman may give three kisses on the cheek, alternating sides, if they know each other well.

Punctuality

Russians are very punctual and expect their foreign counterparts to be on time for meetings – turning up late is reserved for the very high powered. Meetings will always start on time, regardless if key figures have arrived or not. If you are going to be late, it is best to phone ahead to let your new colleagues know.

Meetings

Meetings in Russia tend to be focused on the dissemination of information, rather than being forums for discussion. Meetings are highly structured and serious, with the most senior person setting the agenda. Overt disagreement or informal behaviour would be construed as showing a lack of respect. Russians are skilled negotiators and equate compromise with weakness. So expect lengthy (sometimes theatrical) meetings where your propositions will be analysed and sufficiently ground down before coming to an agreement.

Cultural Sensitivity

Although Russians have a reputation for being formal and serious, they are also very welcoming and hospitable, so it would be considered exceedingly rude to turn down the offer of a drink or meal during business meetings. Any attempt to discuss or criticise past and present political issues in Russia would also be frowned upon – Russians are fiercely loyal to their country so it’s a good idea to bear this in mind, especially in social situations.

Business language

Most business is conducted in Russian. Levels of English vary greatly, with younger Russians in the cosmopolitan centres of Moscow and Saint Petersburg being more proficient. Russians are used to having interpreters present at international business meetings so if your Russian language skills are limited, it’s a good idea to call ahead and arrange for an interpreter to attend.