University Rector Advocates for 'Talent Visa' to Boost Russian Tech Sector

MOSCOW, Feb 10 – The rector of Moscow Polytechnic University has publicly endorsed the creation of a specialized 'talent visa' for Russia, arguing it would provide a strategic boost to the nation's science and technology industries. Vladimir Miklushevsky stated that such programs have proven successful abroad and that Russia could benefit from a tailored version.

"A talent visa could be a precise instrument for drawing qualified professionals to Russia," Miklushevsky told reporters. "The State Duma has already proposed a three-year version for migrants. The final decision on implementing such a mechanism falls to the Ministry of Labor and relevant agencies. As a university, we are prepared to participate in discussions about the program's parameters from the perspective of the educational and scientific community."

He emphasized that this should complement, not replace, domestic efforts to train engineers. Miklushevsky also outlined broader outreach to international students, noting the importance of early engagement. For five years, Moscow Polytech has run the "My Soul is Russia" cultural festival, which was held in India and Pakistan in 2025 with support from Russian cultural centers.

"We work with young people long before enrollment," he explained. "We meet those already studying Russian, who are motivated to join a Russian university, and we explain the educational opportunities here, helping them understand the context in which they will study and work."

Source: RIA Novosti