FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Here are short answers to the questions employees ask most often: before starting a new job, while at work and when leaving. The answers are general and based on the Russian Labour Code. Rules differ in other countries, so if you work elsewhere, check your own law or ask a local adviser. If your situation is more complex, use these answers as a starting point for a conversation with your employer, a lawyer or the labour inspectorate.
A short answer points the way; it does not hand down a decision. The more serious the question, the more your documents and an expert's view matter.
Before you are hired
What should I ask at the interview?
Ask what kind of contract you will be given, whether there will be probation and how long it will last, what your working hours will be and how often salary is paid. The answers help you compare the offer with what ends up in the contract.
Can I take the contract away to read it calmly?
Asking for the text in advance is normal. A fair employer usually does not mind if you want to read the document carefully before signing and ask about any unclear clauses.
Is probation compulsory?
No. Probation is set by agreement between the parties, and the probation clause is stated in the employment contract (Article 70 of the Russian Labour Code). If probation is only mentioned verbally, ask to be shown where it is written down.
What documents will I be asked for when hired?
Usually an identity document, your records of employment, education documents if the job requires them, and some others depending on the situation. If you are asked for information clearly unrelated to the job, ask why it is needed.
While you are working
How often must salary be paid?
At least every half month (Article 136 of the Russian Labour Code). The specific pay days are set in the employer's internal documents or in the contract.
How long is annual leave?
Annual basic paid leave is 28 calendar days (Article 115 of the Russian Labour Code). For some categories of employees, the law provides for additional or extended leave.
What if I do not understand my payslip?
Ask the accounts or HR department in writing to explain the specific lines. Compare the payslip with your contract: the pay terms in the contract should match what has been calculated.
Where do I turn if my rights are breached?
First contact your employer in writing and keep a copy with a note of receipt. If the issue is not resolved, you can go to the labour inspectorate, and to the court to protect your rights. Before going to court, it helps to show your documents to a lawyer.
Resigning
How much notice do I need to give?
As a general rule, written notice no later than two weeks before (Article 80 of the Russian Labour Code), unless the law sets another period. The period runs from when the employer received your letter.
Can I leave before the notice period ends?
Yes, if the employer agrees. It is better to record an agreement on an earlier date in writing, for example as a note on your letter, so there is no disagreement on your last day.
When is the final settlement paid?
All amounts due to the employee are paid on the day of dismissal (Article 140 of the Russian Labour Code). Ask for the payslip for the last period and compare it with what you expected to receive.
What should I collect on my last working day?
Documents related to your work, your records of employment, a copy of the dismissal order if you need it, and your payslip. Check the dismissal date and the grounds.
See also
- Guides
Checklists for employees: preparing for an interview, the first month and probation, annual leave, resigning of your own accord and warning signs when hiring.
- Examples
Hypothetical examples: working without a contract, probation extended verbally, infrequent pay, moved leave, an unpaid final settlement, a service contract instead.
- Documents
The papers that matter to an employee: the contract, the hiring order, the payslip, written requests and records of employment, and why to keep copies.
Sources
- Labour Code of the Russian Federation, Articles 70, 80, 115, 136, 140
- Russian Federal Service for Labour and Employment (Rostrud), general guidance
These materials are based on the Labour Code of the Russian Federation and describe Russian law only. Labour rules change from time to time, so check each article against the current version on the official legal information portal. Rules differ in other countries: check your own law or ask a local adviser, and in a real dispute with an employer contact a lawyer or the labour inspectorate.