OKA AGENCY

Changing сareers in Russia is possible 🎓 In our previous episode, we introduced people who relocated to Russia and continued developing the careers and businesses they had built back home. But relocation does not always mean continuing along the same professional path. Sometimes, it is an opportunity to start again — and to build something entirely new. For many newcomers, moving to Russia becomes a genuine career reset: a chance to change professions, acquire new expertise, and build a new career from the ground up. Russia offers a practical and structured pathway to make that transition possible: professional retraining programs. What are professional retraining programs? These are officially recognized continuing-education programs designed to help professionals acquire a new qualification without pursuing a second university degree. Depending on the program, they can take anywhere from several months to a year to complete and culminate in an officially recognized diploma. Importantly, such programs are also available to international students and professionals, including through major federal universities. One example is Lobachevsky University (UNN) — one of Russia’s leading research universities, consistently represented in international university rankings and offering a broad range of programs for international professionals, including programs taught in English. To explore the opportunities and practical details of professional retraining in greater depth, we spoke with Alexander Bedny, Vice-Rector for Strategic Development and International Affairs at Lobachevsky University. 🎥 Watch the full interview in the video above ⬆️ And this is just the beginning. The opportunities offered by Russia’s education system extend far beyond professional retraining. In our upcoming episodes, we will take a closer look at the country’s education system and the opportunities available to those who are building a new life — and a new future — in Russia! ✔Subscribe to the OKA Agency: We make you fall in love with Nizhny Novgorod More information on our website! Follow us on: 📱 Instagram* 📱 X 📱 YouTube 📱 TikTok *Owned by Meta, recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation #UsefulToKnow

🌱 Relocation as a catalyst for growth: reinvent yourself — or take your business with you? Among those who turn to the OKA Agency are many entrepreneurs — people with experience, established businesses, clear ambitions, and a vision for what comes next. Yet no two relocation journeys are the same. For some, moving to Russia is an opportunity to build on what they already do best. For others, it is a chance to reset, explore a new industry, and redefine their professional path. And for some, relocation opens doors to opportunities they may never have considered before. In this sense, Russia offers something particularly valuable: room to grow — both literally and figuratively. One compelling example is the Monson family from the United States, who found an opportunity to take their farming business to an entirely new level in Russia. Ron Monson and his family had been farming in the United States for years. Farming was more than a profession — it was a way of life. So when they decided to relocate to Russia, the question was never whether to start over. Instead, they brought their experience, expertise, and business with them. Today, the Monson family is building a thriving farm in Russia, with more than 200 lambs already on the farm — and this is only the beginning. In his video, Ron shares what their operation looks like today, how they have adapted their experience to a new environment, and why they ultimately chose Russia as the place to grow their business ⬆️ What about you? If you are considering launching, relocating, or expanding your business in Russia — particularly in the Nizhny Novgorod region — the OKA Agency has a dedicated Business Development division to support entrepreneurs throughout the process. From the initial concept to implementation, we help navigate the practical realities of entering a new market: understanding local business conditions, addressing documentation and regulatory requirements, and identifying the right first steps for your particular venture. Your next chapter may be closer than you think! Get in touch with us to discover what opportunities Russia and the Nizhny Novgorod region could offer for your business ✔Subscribe to the OKA Agency: We make you fall in love with Nizhny Novgorod More information on our website! Follow us on: 📱 Instagram* 📱 X 📱 YouTube 📱 TikTok *Owned by Meta, recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation #WeAreOka

Russian language: The key to building a new life in Russia 🇷🇺 At the OKA Agency, we believe that language is the foundation of successful integration. Proficiency in Russian opens the door to every aspect of daily life — from communicating with neighbors and colleagues to helping children thrive at school. It is also an essential requirement for the next stage of legal residency in Russia: obtaining a Permanent Residence Permit (PRP), which requires passing a Russian language examination. To support our resettlers at every stage of this journey, we have partnered with leading educational institutions to develop a range of Russian language programs tailored to their specific needs. ▫️For children We continue to offer our Russian language course for children, designed to help young learners adapt confidently to their new educational environment. Enrollment is still open, so if your family has not yet registered, we encourage you to contact us. ▫️For adults We have established official partnerships with leading universities in Nizhny Novgorod — and through these partnerships, we offer Russian language courses for adults designed specifically for those building a new life in Russia. One of these courses is held at the Linguistics University of Nizhny Novgorod. The program runs for 6–8 weeks and includes 72 academic hours of instruction delivered across three evening sessions per week, three hours each. All classes are conducted entirely in Russian — creating a fully immersive environment that helps you progress faster, think in the language and gain the real-world confidence you need for everyday life in Russia. Our first group has already been successfully enrolled and will begin classes shortly. If you would like to join a future intake, we invite you to submit your application through our website and follow our updates for upcoming enrollment announcements. ✔Subscribe to the OKA Agency: We make you fall in love with Nizhny Novgorod More information on our website! Follow us on: 📱 Instagram* 📱 X 📱 YouTube 📱 TikTok *Owned by Meta, recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation #WeAreOka

The OKA Agency Community — because belonging matters just as much as the paperwork 🫂 Relocating to a new country is about far more than visas and legal documents. It’s about finding your place, building connections, and truly feeling at home. Often, that’s the greatest challenge of all. That’s why the OKA Agency focuses on two equally important priorities: 📋 Integration — supporting families with legal procedures, documentation, and the practical aspects of relocation. 🌱 Community & Adaptation — helping newcomers build a meaningful life through our growing community of international families. What does that look like? We bring our community together on a regular basis through: ▫️Expert sessions with specialists in healthcare, education, and public services, providing practical answers to the questions newcomers face every day. ▫️Community events and festivals that make the adaptation process enjoyable and bring people together. ▫️Celebrations of major holidays, including Christmas, Easter, New Year, and other important occasions, shared with people who quickly become friends. The greatest success of our community is what happens beyond these events. Many families meet through OKA Agency, build lasting friendships, support one another, and help new arrivals settle into their new lives. Because a new home is more than a new country. It’s the people who make you feel you truly belong 💚 ✔Subscribe to the OKA Agency: We make you fall in love with Nizhny Novgorod More information on our website! Follow us on: 📱 Instagram* 📱 X 📱 YouTube 📱 TikTok *Owned by Meta, recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation #WeAreOka

👥 How to make friends in Russia after relocating? Moving to a new country is one of life’s biggest transitions. A new language, a different culture, unfamiliar surroundings — and the social circle you’ve built over the years is suddenly hundreds or even thousands of miles away. But here’s something many newcomers discover quickly: despite common stereotypes, Russians are genuinely warm, welcoming, and open to meeting new people. Starting conversations and building real friendships is often much easier than newcomers expect. Another positive trend is that in-person socializing is thriving in Russia. Rather than relying solely on apps or social media, people are increasingly connecting face-to-face through shared interests and community activities. Here are a few of the best ways to get started: ▫️Language exchange clubs Nizhny Novgorod is home to a variety of language clubs where people gather to practice English, German, French, and other European languages. If your goal is to improve your Russian, you’ll also find dedicated Russian-as-a-Foreign-Language conversation clubs, where experienced facilitators and fellow international residents create a welcoming environment to learn and practice together. ▫️Sports and hobby communities Whether you enjoy running, cycling, chess, hiking, or fitness, you’ll find active communities that welcome newcomers. Joining a club is one of the easiest ways to meet like-minded people, stay active, and discover new interests at the same time. ▫️Dinner with strangers It may sound unconventional, but it’s becoming an increasingly popular way to make meaningful connections. Local organizers arrange small group dinners where participants are matched based on their preferred language, age group, interests, and chosen venue. It’s a relaxed, enjoyable setting to share a great meal while meeting people who are just as interested in making new connections. Russia has a remarkable way of surprising those who choose to explore it — and its people are no exception. Be curious, say yes to new experiences, and don’t hesitate to reach out to those around you. At OKA Agency, we’re here to support you every step of your relocation journey — from your first day in Russia to helping you build a community that truly feels like home! ✔Subscribe to the OKA Agency: We make you fall in love with Nizhny Novgorod More information on our website! Follow us on: 📱 Instagram* 📱 X 📱 YouTube 📱 TikTok *Owned by Meta, recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation #LifeInRussia

☦️ Arzamas Domes blog tour — a journey into the heart of Russia A few days ago, we returned from our latest blog tour through Arzamas and Diveyevo, where we traveled together with families from the United States, Canada, and Mexico, including several of our relocation clients who have already made Russia their new home. During this unique journey, our guests experienced Russia not as tourists, but from within: staying at the monastery, sharing traditional monastic meals, and immersing themselves in centuries-old spiritual traditions. The tour began at the 15th International “Arzamas Domes” Festival, where more than 150 performers and thousands of visitors gathered to celebrate faith, culture, and community. We then continued to Diveyevo, one of Russia’s most revered pilgrimage sites, where over 7,000 people came together for an open-air Divine Liturgy celebrated by Patriarch Kirill. For our guests, this was an opportunity to discover the Russia that cannot be understood through headlines alone. They witnessed families celebrating together, children at the heart of community life, and traditions that remain a natural part of everyday life. It was a powerful reminder that traditional values here are not simply spoken about — they are lived. These shared experiences continue to bring together relocating families, international visitors, and local communities, creating genuine connections across cultures and showing a different side of modern Russia. 🎥 Watch our latest video to experience the highlights of this unforgettable journey. And if you’d like to see the full story, don’t miss the extended vlog on our YouTube channel. We hope you’ll enjoy it — and we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! ✔Subscribe to the OKA Agency: We make you fall in love with Nizhny Novgorod More information on our website! Follow us on: 📱 Instagram* 📱 X 📱 YouTube 📱 TikTok *Owned by Meta, recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation #WeAreOka

🗓 Newsletter July Throughout July, we focused on one of the most important topics for anyone considering a move to Russia: the infrastructure of Nizhny Novgorod and the surrounding region — and why it offers such an exceptional quality of life. Here’s what we covered over the past month: ▫️Housing for every lifestyle We explored the wide range of residential opportunities available in Nizhny Novgorod and its suburbs — from premium business-class apartments and modern family-friendly developments to homes surrounded by nature and charming cottage communities. Whatever your priorities, there’s a place to call home. ▫️Nature & weekend getaways For those who value balance between work and leisure, we highlighted some of the region’s finest park hotels and glamping destinations. Stunning landscapes, peaceful surroundings, and modern comfort are all just a short drive away. ▫️Getting around the city We took an in-depth look at Nizhny Novgorod’s public transportation network and showed how easy it is to navigate the city without owning a car. With an efficient system of metro, buses, and trams, traveling across the city is both convenient and reliable. ▫️Buying a car in Russia For those who prefer the flexibility of personal transportation, we explained the key steps involved in purchasing a vehicle as a foreign resident. The process is far more straightforward than many people expect. ▫️A milestone worth celebrating One of the highlights of July was the success of one of our clients — a professional ballet artist from Japan — who received his Temporary Residence Permit (TRP). This marks an important milestone on his journey toward building a new life in Russia, and we are proud to have been part of that achievement. A new month brings a new focus. In August, we will be exploring another topic that matters to future residents of Russia: education, professional development, and opportunities for personal growth. Stay with us as we continue to share practical insights, real success stories, and everything you need to know about building a fulfilling life in Russia! ✔Subscribe to the OKA Agency: We make you fall in love with Nizhny Novgorod More information on our website! Follow us on: 📱 Instagram* 📱 X 📱 YouTube 📱 TikTok *Owned by Meta, recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation #Newsletter

🚠 Beyond buses and the metro: Discover Nizhny Novgorod Region’s most unique ways to travel We’ve already introduced you to Nizhny Novgorod’s modern public transportation system. Today, we’d like to show you two of the region’s most distinctive modes of transport — experiences that are not only practical for everyday travel but also among the most memorable highlights of living here. 🚠 The Nizhny Novgorod cable car: commuting with a view For visitors, it’s one of the region’s most iconic attractions. For local residents, it’s an essential part of daily life. The cable car connects Nizhny Novgorod with the city of Bor, providing a fast, reliable alternative to road traffic while offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Volga River. ▫️Length: 3.6 km (2.2 miles) ▫️Travel time: 12–15 minutes ▫️Features one of Europe’s longest unsupported spans over water — more than 860 meters (2,820 feet) ▫️Operates year-round ⛴ The Valday and Meteor: High-speed travel along the Volga The Volga River has always been at the heart of life in this region. Today, modern hydrofoil vessels such as the Valday and Meteor make traveling across it faster, more comfortable, and remarkably scenic, connecting Nizhny Novgorod with historic towns and destinations throughout the region. ▫️Skip the traffic while enjoying spectacular river views. ▫️On several routes, hydrofoils are even faster than traveling by car. ▫️Along the way, you’ll discover historic cities, centuries-old monasteries, and the breathtaking landscapes of the Volga River. Whether you’re planning a visit or considering making the region your new home, these unique transportation options offer far more than a convenient journey — they provide a different perspective on one of Russia’s most beautiful regions. Which would you choose first: the cable car or a high-speed hydrofoil cruise? Let us know in the comments! 👇 ✔Subscribe to the OKA Agency: We make you fall in love with Nizhny Novgorod More information on our website! Follow us on: 📱 Instagram* 📱 X 📱 YouTube 📱 TikTok *Owned by Meta, recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation #LifeInNizhny

🚘 Owning a сar in Russia is easier than you think We recently shared an overview of Nizhny Novgorod’s public transport system. But when it comes to flexibility and convenience, nothing compares to having your own car. With a personal vehicle, you choose the route, the schedule, and the pace of your day The good news is that foreign nationals can legally purchase and own a car in Russia. Whether you’re looking for an affordable everyday vehicle, a premium model, or a luxury car, the Russian automotive market offers a wide range of options to suit every lifestyle and budget. Here’s what you need to know: ✔️A wide range of prices — Russia’s automotive market offers vehicles across every price segment, making it easy to find the right car for your budget. ✔️A straightforward registration process — Purchasing and registering a vehicle is efficient, with the required formalities completed in a relatively short time. ✔️New or pre-owned — the choice is yours — Both new and used vehicles can be legally purchased by foreign nationals. ✔️Minimal documentation required — Buying a car requires only a basic set of documents, making the process accessible for newcomers. ✔️Insurance is quick and easy to arrange — Mandatory third-party liability insurance (OSAGO) can be obtained without difficulty, including by foreign citizens. 📖 Our step-by-step guide in the carousel explains exactly how the process works. If you have any questions or need personalised assistance, the OKA Agency is always here to help! Текст на русском языке 🚘 Своя машина в России — это реально! Раньше мы рассказывали про общественный транспорт Нижнего Новгорода. Но давайте честно — собственный автомобиль даёт совсем другой уровень свободы. Ваш маршрут, ваше время, ваши правила 🗺 Иностранным гражданам доступна покупка авто в России: от бюджетных вариантов до бизнес и элит-класса. Рынок большой — выбор найдётся для каждого. Что важно знать: ✔️Цены доступные — российский рынок предлагает широкий диапазон стоимости, и найти хороший автомобиль можно в любом бюджете ✔️Оформление простое и быстрое — весь процесс регистрации авто не займёт много времени ✔️Можно купить новый или б/у — оба варианта абсолютно законны и доступны для иностранных граждан ✔️Для покупки достаточно минимального пакета документов ✔️Страховка оформляется быстро — ОСАГО обязательно, и получить его не составит труда даже иностранцу Как это сделать шаг за шагом — смотрите в наших карточках 👉 Если остались вопросы — Агентство ОКА всегда на связи! ✔Subscribe to the OKA Agency: We make you fall in love with Nizhny Novgorod More information on our website! Follow us on: 📱 Instagram* 📱 X 📱 YouTube 📱 TikTok *Owned by Meta, recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation #UsefulToKnow

A city where every journey has its route 🚍 One of the first questions people ask when considering a move to Nizhny Novgorod is: “Will I need a car?” While owning a car is certainly the most convenient and flexible way to get around — and in one of our upcoming posts we’ll explain exactly how to buy one in Russia — you don’t need to worry if you don’t have one yet. Nizhny Novgorod’s public transport system is modern, reliable, and surprisingly comfortable. From your very first day, you’ll be able to travel effortlessly across the entire city. An extensive network of metro lines, trams, trolleybuses, and buses connects every district, making it easy to reach virtually any destination without the hassle of traffic jams, parking, or unnecessary expenses. The vehicles are clean, well-maintained, and designed with passenger comfort in mind. 🧡 Why orange? You may notice that almost every bus, tram, and trolleybus in Nizhny Novgorod shares the same distinctive orange colour. This is more than a design choice — it’s a symbol of the city itself, inspired by the breathtaking sunsets over the Volga River. Comfortable, affordable, and easy to use ▫️One flat fare — approximately €0.40 per journey, regardless of the distance travelled or the type of transport. ▫️Multiple payment options — pay with your bank card, smartphone, cash, or a transport card. ▫️ Modern comfort — air conditioning, comfortable seating, and fast contactless payment via onboard validators are standard across the network. ▫️Reliable service — frequent departures and dependable schedules help you get where you need to be with minimal waiting time. ▫️Real-time tracking — check live arrival times using navigation apps or the city’s smart bus stops. Nizhny Novgorod is a city where infrastructure is designed around people, making everyday life simpler, more comfortable, and more connected! Curious to see what it’s really like? Watch our video and experience Nizhny Novgorod through the eyes of its residents! Текст на русском языке Город, где маршрут найдётся для каждого Один из первых вопросов, который задают те, кто рассматривает переезд в Нижний Новгород: «Нужна ли машина?» Конечно, личный автомобиль — это самый удобный и комфортный вариант передвижения, и в одном из следующих постов мы подробно расскажем, как его купить. Но если машины пока нет — не переживайте: общественный транспорт в городе ничуть не уступает по комфорту. Общественный транспорт здесь развит настолько, что вы с первого дня сможете комфортно передвигаться по всему городу — без пробок, без парковочных головных болей и без лишних расходов. Метро, трамваи, троллейбусы и автобусы охватывают весь Нижний Новгород: все чистые, ухоженные и приятные, так что добраться до любой точки города не составит никакого труда. 🟠 Кстати, об оранжевом Недавно весь общественный транспорт Нижнего Новгорода стал единого оранжевого цвета. Это не просто дизайнерское решение — это характер. Именно такого цвета нижегородские закаты над Волгой. Удобно и доступно: ▫️Стоимость одной поездки — около 0,40 € — независимо от вида транспорта и расстояния ▫️Оплата картой, телефоном или транспортной картой ▫️Кондиционер, комфортные места и быстрая оплата через валидатор — в каждом транспортном средстве ▫️Расписание соблюдается, интервалы между рейсами минимальные ▫️Прибытие транспорта можно отследить онлайн — через карты или умные остановки Нижний Новгород — город, в котором инфраструктура работает на человека. А как всё это выглядит вживую — смотрите в нашем видео 🧡 ✔Subscribe to the OKA Agency: We make you fall in love with Nizhny Novgorod More information on our website! Follow us on: 📱 Instagram* 📱 X 📱 YouTube 📱 TikTok *Owned by Meta, recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation #LifeInNizhny

🌲Need a weekend reset without leaving city life behind? One of the questions we often hear from people relocating to Nizhny Novgorod is: “What if I love the convenience of city living but still want easy access to nature?” Many of our clients choose an apartment in Nizhny Novgorod because it offers the career opportunities, infrastructure, and vibrant lifestyle they value. The good news is that escaping to the countryside doesn’t require owning a second home. The Nizhny Novgorod Region offers a wide range of high-quality countryside retreats, each designed for a different style of getaway: ▫️Resort Hotels — Ideal for those who appreciate effortless comfort. Expansive grounds, spa facilities, fine dining, swimming pools, and family-friendly entertainment create the perfect all-inclusive weekend escape. ▫️Eco-Lodges — Designed for travelers seeking peace, authenticity, and a closer connection with nature. Expect handcrafted wooden cabins, locally sourced cuisine, traditional Russian banyas, and a tranquil atmosphere far from the noise of the city. ▫️Glamping Retreats — The perfect balance of adventure and luxury. Stay in panoramic domes, stylish safari tents, or contemporary A-frame cabins surrounded by forests — all while enjoying comfortable beds, modern amenities, and hot showers. 🎥 Watch the video to discover some of our favorite countryside destinations in the Nizhny Novgorod Region. Each has been carefully selected and personally recommended by our team as an ideal place to unwind, recharge, and experience another side of life in Russia — all just a short drive from the city! ✔Subscribe to the OKA Agency: We make you fall in love with Nizhny Novgorod More information on our website! Follow us on: 📱 Instagram* 📱 X 📱 YouTube 📱 TikTok *Owned by Meta, recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation #LifeInNizhny

🏡 City apartment or private home? Let’s compare the real numbers We’ve previously explored apartment options for those relocating to the Nizhny Novgorod Region. But there’s another side of life in Russia that’s equally appealing: comfortable year-round living in a private home. Contrary to common misconceptions, owning a house outside the city is often no more expensive than living in an apartment — and in many cases, it offers significantly greater value. Let’s look at the numbers. ▫️Purchase price A modern 60–70 m² apartment in Nizhny Novgorod typically costs RUB 10–13 million. A 100–150 m² detached home with its own land can be purchased for approximately RUB 12–15 million. For a comparable investment, you receive twice the living space, a private garden, and the privacy of having no neighbors behind shared walls. ▫️Cost of ownership Many people assume that maintaining a house is considerably more expensive. In practice, the opposite is often true. Apartment owners pay monthly management fees in addition to seasonal heating costs, which can rise substantially during the winter months. Private homes connected to Russia’s natural gas network benefit from highly efficient and affordable heating. In many cases, an entire winter season of heating costs is comparable to just a few months of utility bills for a city apartment. ▫️Lifestyle & accessibility Living outside the city does not mean sacrificing convenience. Most residential communities are located just 20–40 minutes from downtown Nizhny Novgorod via modern highways. High-speed internet, supermarkets, security services, and everyday amenities are available within the community itself, while quality schools, healthcare facilities, and shopping centers are typically only 15–20 minutes away. ❓Why do so many of our clients choose a private home? For many families relocating to Russia, choosing a house means preserving the lifestyle they value most: space, privacy, peace, and the freedom of having a place to truly call their own. Instead of compromising on comfort, they invest in a home that offers room for children to grow, space to work remotely, and a higher quality of life — all within a budget comparable to that of a city apartment. If you’re considering purchasing a home in Russia, we’re here to help! The specialists at OKA Agency will guide you through the market, identify properties that match your budget and priorities, and provide professional support throughout every stage of the purchase process — from property selection to the secure completion of all legal documentation! ✔Subscribe to the OKA Agency: We make you fall in love with Nizhny Novgorod More information on our website! Follow us on: 📱 Instagram* 📱 X 📱 YouTube 📱 TikTok *Owned by Meta, recognized as extremist and banned in the Russian Federation #UsefulToKnow