When returning to Russia after a period of living abroad, individuals often have questions about the social benefits and support available to them. The Russian Federation offers various social benefits to citizens, including those who are returning to the country after living abroad. These benefits aim to provide financial support, healthcare, education, and social services to facilitate reintegration into Russian society.
In this article, we will explore the key social benefits available to returnees to Russia, including those related to healthcare, employment, education, housing, and other areas of social assistance.
1. Healthcare Benefits for Returnees
One of the most important social benefits for returnees is access to healthcare. Russia offers universal healthcare to its citizens, which includes both medical treatment and preventive services. Here are the key healthcare benefits available to returnees:
1.1 Access to Free Healthcare through the CHI System
Returnees who regain Russian citizenship or residency are eligible for access to the Compulsory Health Insurance (CHI) system. CHI provides free medical care at state-funded healthcare institutions, which covers:
- General medical treatment: Doctor consultations, outpatient care, emergency services, and hospitalizations.
- Preventive care: Vaccinations, health screenings, and other preventive measures.
- Specialized care: Services such as dental care, maternity services, and other specialized medical treatments may also be included, though some services might require additional payments or insurance.
To access CHI, returnees need to register with a local Territorial Fund of Mandatory Health Insurance and obtain a medical policy, which is required to receive medical services.
1.2 Health Insurance for Foreigners
Foreign nationals or former citizens who are returning to Russia may also be eligible for health insurance under certain conditions. If they have a permanent or temporary residence permit in Russia, they can access state healthcare services after registering with the CHI system. Alternatively, some may choose to purchase private health insurance, especially if they are not eligible for free state services immediately.
2. Social Security and Pension Benefits
2.1 Pension Rights for Returnees
If you are a returnee and have previously contributed to the Russian pension system, you may be eligible for pension payments. The Russian pension system provides financial support for citizens during retirement or in case of disability. Returnees can access pensions based on:
- Previous Pension Contributions: If you worked in Russia before leaving, you may be entitled to pension payments based on your work history and contributions to the pension fund.
- Totalization Agreements: Russia has signed agreements with many countries to avoid double taxation of pension contributions. These agreements allow for the combining of pension contributions from both Russia and the other country, which can result in a higher pension amount.
Returnees should contact the Russian Pension Fund to inquire about their specific situation and the steps needed to re-register or access their pension benefits.
2.2 Social Benefits for Families with Children
Returnees who have children may also be eligible for various social benefits, including:
- Childcare Allowances: Parents can receive allowances to support childcare costs, which are provided to families with children under a certain age (typically under 18). The amount of the allowance depends on income, family size, and other factors.
- Maternity Benefits: Russian citizens returning to the country may qualify for maternity benefits, which include financial support during maternity leave and after childbirth.
- Social Services for Children: In addition to financial benefits, returnee families can access a wide range of social services for children, including education, healthcare, and support for children with disabilities.
3. Employment and Unemployment Benefits
3.1 Job Search and Employment Assistance
Returnees who are seeking employment in Russia may be entitled to various support services:
- Employment Centers: Local employment centers (state-run) can help returnees find suitable jobs, update their qualifications, and provide career counseling.
- Job Placement and Retraining Programs: For returnees who need additional skills or training to enter the Russian labor market, there are job placement programs and free retraining opportunities funded by the government.
If you are a returnee and are actively seeking employment, you may also be eligible for unemployment benefits during your job search. These benefits are generally provided for up to six months but depend on your previous employment history in Russia or any work experience abroad that meets specific criteria.
3.2 Unemployment Benefits for Returnees
- Eligibility for Unemployment Benefits: If you have worked and contributed to the Russian pension system before leaving the country, you may be entitled to unemployment benefits upon your return to Russia. The amount you receive will depend on your previous earnings and work history.
- Application Process: To claim unemployment benefits, returnees must register with a local employment center and demonstrate that they are actively seeking work.
3.3 Tax Relief and Business Support
For returnees planning to start a business or engage in self-employment, there are tax incentives and support programs available. Russia offers a simplified tax system for small businesses and entrepreneurs, which can reduce the burden on new businesses. Additionally, there are grants and financial support programs for returnees looking to invest in business development.
4. Housing Benefits and Support
4.1 State-Supported Housing for Returnees
Housing is often a key concern for returnees, especially for those who are re-establishing their lives after a long time abroad. Russia offers various housing programs for citizens, including returnees:
- Government Housing Programs: In some cases, returnees may qualify for government-subsidized housing or access to social housing programs, depending on their income and family situation.
- Mortgage Programs: Russia also offers mortgage programs with relatively low interest rates, making homeownership more accessible for returnees. These programs are available for individuals who are working or have permanent residency in Russia.
Returnees can inquire about housing support through local authorities or government programs for affordable housing.
4.2 Housing and Utility Subsidies
In some regions of Russia, low-income families, including returnee families, may be eligible for housing and utility subsidies to help cover rent, utilities, and other housing-related expenses. These subsidies are designed to ease the financial burden on families who are struggling to afford housing costs.
5. Education Benefits for Returnee Families
5.1 Free Education
Russian citizens, including returnees, have access to free education in public schools, universities, and vocational institutions. The state-funded education system is one of the most significant social benefits, and children of returnees are entitled to enroll in schools without tuition fees.
- Preschool and School Education: Returnee families can register their children in local public schools and preschools once they have completed residence registration. Education is provided in Russian, so language support programs may be available for returnees who are not fluent in the language.
5.2 Higher Education and Scholarships
If you are a returnee and are planning to pursue higher education in Russia, you are eligible for state-funded places in universities. Russia has many world-renowned universities that offer various undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. Additionally, some scholarships and grants are available for returnees to support their education.
6. Other Social Services and Benefits
6.1 Social Support for Vulnerable Groups
Returnees who belong to vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, disabled individuals, or low-income families, may be entitled to additional social services. These services can include financial assistance, social housing options, and healthcare support tailored to specific needs.
6.2 Cultural and Integration Support
In certain regions of Russia, returnees who have spent extended periods abroad may be eligible for cultural integration programs. These programs help returnees acclimate to life in Russia, offering language courses, cultural orientation, and support with integrating into the local community.
Summary
Returning to Russia after living abroad can be a complex process, but the Russian Federation offers a variety of social benefits designed to help reintegrate returnees and support their quality of life. These benefits include healthcare, pension rights, unemployment support, housing subsidies, education, and social services, all of which are available to Russian citizens, including those returning after a long absence.
By understanding the available benefits and following the necessary legal steps, returnees can take full advantage of these opportunities and ease their transition back into life in Russia. Be sure to register with local authorities, apply for the appropriate support programs, and consult with relevant government agencies to ensure that you receive all the benefits you are entitled to.
