American Expats in Russia

Updated on August 20, 2025.

Russia & U.S. Tax Timeline: Critical Dates for Dual Filers

Managing dual tax obligations between Russia and the United States requires careful attention to two distinct tax calendars. Understanding these timelines is crucial for maintaining compliance and avoiding penalties in both jurisdictions.

The Russian tax system operates on a pay-as-you-earn basis for employees, with employers withholding personal income tax (NDFL) monthly at either 13% for residents or 30% for non-residents. Self-employed individuals and those with significant non-employment income must make quarterly advance payments based on estimated income. These advance payments are due by the 15th of the month following each quarter, creating a continuous cycle of tax obligations that must be carefully managed alongside U.S. requirements.

Strategic Payment Planning to Avoid U.S. Penalties

The most critical aspect of dual tax compliance for U.S. expats in Russia is understanding that the June 15 automatic extension applies only to filing, not to payment obligations. This distinction has significant financial implications that require proactive planning to avoid unnecessary interest and penalties.

To effectively manage this payment timing challenge, expats should implement a multi-pronged approach. First, conduct a preliminary tax calculation by early March using your Russian income documentation and estimated U.S. tax obligations. This projection doesn't need to be perfect but should provide a reasonable estimate of your U.S. tax liability. Consider working with a tax professional familiar with both systems to ensure accuracy in this crucial calculation. As an expat CPA firm, we can help you with these items.

Second, establish a tax reserve account specifically for U.S. obligations. Since Russian taxes are paid through wage withholding and quarterly advance payments throughout the year, you'll need separate liquidity for U.S. payments. Many expats find it helpful to set aside funds monthly, treating U.S. tax reserves as a fixed expense in their budget. This approach prevents the April 15 payment deadline from creating a cash flow crisis.

Third, leverage safe harbor provisions to minimize penalties. If you're unable to calculate your exact tax liability by April 15, you can avoid penalties by paying either 100% of your prior year's tax liability (110% if your prior year AGI exceeded $150,000) or 90% of the current year's tax. This safe harbor payment strategy provides protection while you finalize your actual tax calculations. As an expat CPA firm, we can help you with this.

For those with irregular income or significant Russian-source income, consider making quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS. While Russia handles tax through wage withholding and advance payments, the U.S. system may require quarterly payments if your withholding is insufficient. These payments are due April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15, and help spread the tax burden throughout the year rather than facing a large payment in April.

Currency fluctuations between the ruble and dollar add another layer of complexity to payment planning. Since you'll likely earn income in rubles but owe taxes in dollars, exchange rate movements can significantly impact your tax liability. Consider using the yearly average exchange rate for income reporting (as permitted by the IRS) to smooth out volatility, and monitor exchange rates when planning your April payment to optimize the conversion timing. As an expat CPA firm, we can help you with these items.

Russia vs. U.S. Tax Systems: Direct Comparison

Understanding the fundamental differences between Russian and U.S. tax systems is essential for effective tax planning as an American expat. While both countries tax worldwide income for residents, their approaches to rates, deductions, and income classification vary significantly.

The Russian tax system applies a flat 13% rate on most income for residents, with a progressive element introduced in 2021 applying 15% to income exceeding 5 million rubles annually. Non-residents face a flat 30% rate on Russian-source income. This compares to U.S. federal rates ranging from 10% to 37%, though U.S. expats may benefit from the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) of $120,000 for 2023 and $126,500 for 2024.

One crucial difference lies in the treatment of investment income. Russia generally applies the same flat rate to capital gains and investment income as ordinary income, with certain exemptions for long-term holdings. The U.S., conversely, distinguishes between short-term gains (taxed as ordinary income) and long-term gains (taxed at preferential rates of 0%, 15%, or 20% depending on income levels). This difference can significantly impact investment strategy for expats managing portfolios across both countries.

The Russian Tax System Explained in Detail

The Russian tax system presents unique characteristics for American expats accustomed to U.S. tax principles. Russia's approach to income classification, taxation methods, and available deductions differs substantially from the American system, requiring careful study to optimize tax positions and ensure compliance.

Understanding U.S. Income Classifications

Before diving into the Russian system, it's essential to understand how the United States classifies and taxes different types of income, as this provides the framework for comparison and planning strategies.

The Russian Income Tax Categories

Russia categorizes income into several distinct types for tax purposes, each with specific rules and rates. This approach differs from the U.S. system and requires careful analysis to properly report income and optimize tax positions.

1. Employment Income (Trudovoy Dokhod)

Employment income encompasses wages, salaries, bonuses, and employment benefits received from Russian employers. Russia applies a flat 13% rate for residents on employment income up to 5 million rubles annually, with 15% applying to amounts exceeding this threshold. Non-residents face a 30% flat rate on Russian-source employment income, creating significant tax implications for those who haven't established residency.

2. Business and Professional Income

Business income covers earnings from entrepreneurial activities, including individual entrepreneurs (IP), private practice professionals (lawyers, notaries), and income from business partnerships. Individual entrepreneurs can choose between the general tax regime (13-15% with full deductions) or simplified taxation systems offering reduced rates but limiting deductible expenses.

The simplified tax system (USN) provides two options: 6% on gross revenue without expense deductions, or 15% on profit (revenue minus expenses). The patent system offers fixed payments for specific activities, particularly beneficial for small-scale service providers. Professional income tax (NPD) at 4% for B2C and 6% for B2B transactions suits freelancers and gig economy workers.

3. Investment Income

Investment income includes dividends, interest, and capital gains from securities transactions. Russian dividends face 13% withholding for residents and 15% for non-residents. Interest income from bank deposits up to 1 million rubles multiplied by the key Central Bank rate remains tax-exempt, with excess amounts taxed at standard rates.

Capital gains from securities held over three years may qualify for exemption up to 3 million rubles annually per asset. The investment tax deduction allows residents to exclude gains from securities traded on Russian exchanges if held in individual investment accounts (IIS) meeting specific requirements.

4. Property Income

Property income encompasses rental income and gains from property sales. Rental income faces standard 13-15% rates for residents with deductible expenses including maintenance, utilities, and depreciation. A simplified 20% expense deduction option exists without documentation requirements.

Property sales qualify for complete tax exemption if owned for five years (three years for certain categories including inherited property). For shorter holding periods, residents can claim either a 1 million ruble deduction for residential property or deduct documented purchase costs.

5. Other Income Categories

This category captures various income types including royalties and intellectual property income (standard rates with expense deductions), gambling and lottery winnings (15% for residents, 30% for non-residents on winnings over 4,000 rubles), gifts exceeding 4,000 rubles from non-relatives, cryptocurrency transactions (taxed as property sales), and certain insurance payouts.

Foreign-source income for Russian tax residents faces the same rates as domestic income, with foreign tax credits available under treaty provisions. Proper documentation and calculation of foreign tax credits proves essential for avoiding double taxation.

Russian Taxes and Foreign Tax Credit Eligibility

Understanding which Russian taxes can be claimed as a credit on Form 1116 is crucial for reducing your U.S. tax liability. While most income taxes are creditable, social security contributions and certain other taxes are not.

Gosuslugi and Tax Portal: Understanding Russia's Digital Tax System

For American expats, navigating Russia's tax system means becoming familiar with two key digital platforms: Gosuslugi and the Federal Tax Service Portal. These are central to managing your tax obligations and accessing government services in Russia.

What is Gosuslugi?

Gosuslugi (State Services) is Russia's unified portal for government services, including tax matters, document requests, and administrative procedures. It serves as a single point of access for hundreds of government services. To use it, you must register with your Russian passport or residence permit, SNILS (social insurance number), and verified phone number. The portal links to various government agencies and enables secure document submission.

What is the Tax Notice (Nalogovoye Uvedomleniye)?

The Tax Notice is your official tax assessment from the Federal Tax Service (FNS). After processing your declaration or based on third-party information, the FNS sends this document annually. It clearly states:

• Your calculated personal income tax (NDFL)
• Property tax obligations
• Transport tax if you own vehicles
• Land tax for property owners
• Payment deadlines and bank details
• Amount of tax already withheld by employers
• Final payment due or refund amount

The Tax Notice is a critical document for U.S. tax purposes, as it provides the official amount of Russian tax paid that can be used to claim the Foreign Tax Credit on your U.S. Form 1040.

U.S.-Russia Social Security Considerations

Unlike many countries, the U.S. and Russia do not have a Social Security Totalization Agreement. This absence has significant implications for American expats working in Russia, potentially subjecting them to dual social security taxation.

Without a totalization agreement, U.S. citizens working in Russia may be required to pay into both the Russian social insurance system and U.S. Social Security. Russian employers must contribute approximately 30% of wages to social funds (22% pension, 5.1% medical, 2.9% social insurance), while employees generally don't make direct contributions except for amounts exceeding annual thresholds.

U.S. self-employment tax continues to apply to self-employed Americans in Russia at 15.3% of net earnings. This creates a significant additional tax burden since Russian social insurance contributions cannot offset U.S. self-employment tax obligations. The lack of credit coordination means Americans may pay into both systems without the ability to combine credits for benefit qualification.

Russian Social Security and Pension System

Three-Component System Overview

Russia's pension system consists of three main components:

• State Pension (Gosudarstvennaya Pensiya): The mandatory state pension system funded through employer contributions of 22% of wages. Benefits calculated based on individual pension coefficients accumulated throughout working life.
• Corporate Pensions: Voluntary employer-sponsored supplemental pension plans. These are less common than in Western countries but growing among large corporations and international companies.
• Personal Pension Savings: Individual voluntary pension accounts through non-state pension funds (NPF) or investment programs. Tax incentives available for contributions up to 120,000 rubles annually.

Russian Retirement Accounts and U.S. Tax Treatment

The U.S. tax treatment of Russian retirement accounts is complex since the IRS doesn't recognize most Russian plans as "qualified" retirement plans, leading to potential current taxation and reporting obligations.

PFIC Mitigation Strategies for Russian Investment Accounts

Passive Foreign Investment Companies (PFICs) create significant tax complications for U.S. expats. Most Russian mutual funds (PIFs), ETFs traded on MOEX, and unit-linked insurance products fall into this category, triggering complex reporting and punitive taxation.

Identifying PFICs in Russian Investments

• Request detailed holdings information from your Russian broker or fund manager
• Look for terms like "PIF" (Mutual Investment Fund) or "BPIF" (Exchange-Traded Fund)
• Russian ETFs traded on Moscow Exchange are typically PFICs
• Insurance investment products usually contain PFIC investments

Compliance Strategies

Since Qualified Electing Fund (QEF) elections are rarely possible with Russian funds, consider these approaches:

• Mark-to-Market Election: Often the most practical choice for publicly traded Russian securities
• Avoid PFICs: Invest directly in individual stocks rather than funds
• Default Method: Results in highest tax burden with interest charges

Documentation Requirements

Maintain comprehensive records including:

• Annual statements from Russian brokers with year-end values
• Transaction history showing all purchases and sales
• Fund composition and holdings information
• Exchange rates for all transaction dates

Russian Financial Account Reporting Requirements

U.S. citizens must report Russian financial accounts exceeding certain thresholds, with severe penalties for non-compliance.

FBAR and FATCA Reporting

Reportable accounts include:

• Bank Accounts: Current accounts, deposit accounts, card accounts at Russian banks
• Investment Accounts: Brokerage accounts, IIS accounts, trust management accounts
• Retirement Accounts: NPF accounts, voluntary pension programs
• Digital Assets: Cryptocurrency exchange accounts based in Russia
• Business Accounts: If signature authority or >50% ownership

Form 8938 Thresholds for U.S. Expats

Higher thresholds apply to U.S. citizens living abroad:

• Single/Married Filing Separately: $200,000 on December 31 or $300,000 any time during year
• Married Filing Jointly: $400,000 on December 31 or $600,000 any time during year

Russian Government Benefits and Their U.S. Tax Treatment

Understanding the U.S. tax treatment of Russian social benefits helps avoid reporting errors:

• Maternity Capital: Not taxable income, government family support benefit
• Child Allowances: Monthly payments not reportable as income
• Unemployment Benefits: Must be reported as income on U.S. return
• Housing Subsidies: Generally not taxable if need-based
• Disability Benefits: May be partially taxable depending on nature

Russian Business Structures and U.S. Reporting

Business structure selection significantly impacts U.S. tax reporting obligations and overall tax burden.

Important Considerations

• Treaty Benefits: Claim U.S.-Russia treaty benefits using Form 8833
• Documentation: Maintain records in both Russian and English
• Exchange Rates: Use Federal Reserve or IRS published rates
• Exit Tax: Russia has no formal exit tax but timing of departure affects residency

Russian Visa Options and Their Tax Implications

Russia offers various visa categories for American citizens, each with distinct requirements, benefits, and tax implications. Understanding these options is crucial for optimizing your tax position while ensuring legal residence status.

Standard Work Visa

The standard work visa remains the primary route for American professionals employed by Russian companies. Requirements include an official invitation from a Russian employer registered with migration services, work permit (except for highly qualified specialists), medical certificates including HIV test, and proof of professional qualifications. The visa initially grants one year with possible three-year extensions.

Tax implications favor those achieving resident status (183+ days) with reduced 13% rate versus 30% for non-residents. Employer-provided benefits like housing and transportation may receive favorable tax treatment. Social insurance obligations apply from day one of employment. The visa provides a clear path to temporary and permanent residence permits.

Highly Qualified Specialist (HQS) Visa

The HQS visa targets professionals earning over 2 million rubles annually (167,000 rubles monthly). Benefits include simplified application without work permit requirements, three-year initial validity, family members receive accompanying visas, and flat 13% tax rate from day one regardless of residence status. This preferential tax treatment provides immediate tax savings compared to the 30% non-resident rate.

HQS status exempts holders from Russian social insurance contributions except for medical insurance, reducing employer costs significantly. The accelerated path to residence permits and preferential treatment for housing registration makes this visa particularly attractive for executives and technical specialists.

Business Visa

Business visas suit entrepreneurs and investors not seeking employment. Available in single, double, or multiple-entry formats with validity up to one year, these visas require invitation from a Russian business entity but prohibit employment activities. Multiple-entry business visas allow maximum 90 days per 180-day period.

Tax implications remain minimal without Russian-source income, though extended presence may trigger residence. Business conducted must avoid creating permanent establishment. Consider converting to work or investor visa if business activities expand. The visa suits preliminary market research and partnership development.

Investor and Entrepreneur Options

While Russia lacks a dedicated investor visa, several pathways exist for entrepreneurs. Establishing a Russian company (OOO or AO) can support visa applications. Requirements vary by region but typically include minimum capital requirements, business plan submission, and job creation commitments. Some regions offer simplified procedures for technology companies and startups.

Tax planning opportunities include choosing optimal business structure and tax regime, utilizing special economic zones with reduced profit tax rates, claiming R&D deductions and innovation incentives, and managing transfer pricing for international operations. The Skolkovo Innovation Center provides unique benefits including reduced profit tax and exemption from VAT for qualifying tech companies.

Student and Academic Visas

Student visas offer pathways to Russian residence with post-graduation opportunities. Requirements include university admission letter, proof of financial resources, health insurance, and HIV certificate. Students can work up to 20 hours weekly with university permission.

Limited income typically falls below taxable thresholds. Student status may affect U.S. education credits and deductions. Post-graduation job search periods allow visa conversion. Academic exchanges may qualify for treaty benefits reducing withholding rates.

Private/Humanitarian Visa

Private visas based on humanitarian grounds or family connections offer an alternative pathway. These three-month visas can be extended in-country and may lead to temporary residence permits. Requirements include invitation from Russian citizen or permanent resident, proof of relationship or humanitarian grounds, and standard medical certificates.

Tax residency develops based on days present rather than visa type. Employment requires separate work authorization. The visa provides flexibility for family reunification and long-term stay planning. Cultural and educational activities remain permitted without additional permits.

Russia's E-Visa System and Digital Nomad Considerations

Russia's electronic visa system, expanded nationwide in 2021, simplifies entry for business and tourism purposes, though it doesn't specifically address digital nomads. Understanding the limitations and opportunities helps remote workers navigate Russian immigration law.

The E-Visa System

E-visas provide simplified online application with no invitation required, 16-day validity for single entry, maximum 8-day stay per visit, and coverage of entire Russian Federation. Business, tourism, and humanitarian purposes qualify, though employment remains prohibited.

The short duration prevents tax residence establishment. Multiple entries require new applications with gaps between visits. The system suits exploratory visits before committing to longer-term visas. Digital nomads cannot legally work for Russian companies on e-visas.

Remote Work and Tax Considerations

While Russia lacks dedicated digital nomad visas, remote workers have limited options. Tourist and business visas prohibit Russian employment but may allow remote work for foreign employers. Extended stays risk creating tax residence triggering worldwide taxation. Permanent establishment rules may attribute business profits to Russia.

Digital workers should structure arrangements to maintain foreign-source characterization, limit Russian presence to avoid 183-day residence threshold, document foreign employment and business days carefully, and consider treaty provisions preventing double taxation. Russian authorities increasingly scrutinize long-term tourists conducting remote work.

Practical Considerations for Remote Workers

Banking access remains challenging without residence permits. Many Russian banks restrict services for U.S. citizens due to compliance costs. International sanctions further complicate financial services access. Digital payment systems may offer alternatives with limitations.

Internet connectivity varies significantly outside major cities. VPN usage, while common, faces periodic restrictions. Co-working spaces in Moscow and St. Petersburg cater to international professionals. Language barriers remain significant outside major urban centers.

Frequently Asked Questions for U.S. Expats in Russia

Q: How does the U.S.-Russia tax treaty prevent double taxation?

The treaty provides several mechanisms for relief. Primary taxing rights are assigned by income type - employment income is generally taxable where work is performed, while pensions (except government pensions) are taxable only in the residence country. Government pensions remain taxable only in the paying country. The treaty provides for foreign tax credits in both countries and includes tie-breaker rules for dual residence situations. Reduced withholding rates apply: 5-10% for dividends (depending on ownership), 0% for interest to banks and governments, and 0% for royalties. However, the treaty's benefits may be limited by saving clauses that preserve each country's right to tax its own citizens.

Q: Can I contribute to both Russian and U.S. retirement accounts?

Yes, but with complications. Russian pension contributions through employer withholding are mandatory but not creditable against U.S. taxes. Voluntary Russian retirement savings (NPF, IIS) lack U.S. tax advantages and may face current taxation. U.S. retirement contributions (IRA, 401(k)) remain available only if you have U.S.-source earned income or elect to include foreign earned income. Without a totalization agreement, you may face obligations to both systems. Russian investment accounts often contain PFICs requiring complex U.S. reporting. Consider maintaining U.S. investment accounts for retirement savings to avoid PFIC complications.

Q: What happens to my U.S. state tax obligations when I move to Russia?

State tax obligations depend on your former state and departure steps. States like California, Virginia, New York, and New Mexico aggressively pursue former residents. Critical steps include obtaining Russian residence permit and registration, canceling state driver's license and voter registration, closing state bank accounts, selling or renting out state property, and filing final part-year or non-resident returns. Some states continue taxing certain income regardless of foreign residence. States without income tax simplify the expatriation process. Document your Russian residence establishment thoroughly as some states may challenge your non-resident status.

Q: How are Russian real estate investments taxed for U.S. expats?

Russian real estate faces multiple tax considerations. Rental income is taxed at 13-15% for residents with deductions for expenses and depreciation. A simplified 20% expense deduction is available without documentation. Property sales within five years (three for inherited property) face capital gains tax; after the holding period, gains are tax-free for residents. Annual property tax of 0.1-2% applies based on cadastral value. For U.S. purposes, report rental income on Schedule E with 27.5-year depreciation. All capital gains are taxable in the U.S. regardless of Russian exemptions. The primary residence exclusion may apply if requirements are met. Foreign tax credits help offset Russian taxes paid.

Q: Should I choose the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion or Foreign Tax Credit?

For Russia's moderate tax environment, the choice depends on income level and type. The Foreign Tax Credit often works better for high earners since Russian rates (13-15%) may generate excess credits. FEIE benefits those earning under $126,500 who can eliminate U.S. tax entirely. Many combine strategies using FEIE for wages and FTC for investment income. Consider that FEIE requires meeting physical presence or bona fide residence tests, while FTC preserves U.S. retirement account contribution eligibility. Once you revoke FEIE, re-election requires five-year waiting period. Model both scenarios to determine optimal approach based on your specific situation.

Q: How do I handle Russian taxation of my U.S. investment accounts?

Russia taxes worldwide investment income for residents at standard rates (13-15%). U.S. investment income including interest, dividends, and realized gains must be declared on your Russian tax return. No automatic withholding occurs on foreign accounts, requiring self-reporting and quarterly advance payments. Currency gains on dollar-denominated assets may be taxable when converted to rubles. The U.S.-Russia treaty may reduce withholding on U.S. dividends to 5-10%. Consider timing investment transactions around residence changes. Maintain detailed records of purchase prices and transaction dates for both tax systems.

Q: What are the implications of maintaining U.S. LLCs or corporations while living in Russia?

U.S. entities face complex Russian tax treatment. Single-member LLCs may be treated as corporations in Russia, creating double taxation. Management from Russia could create Russian corporate tax residence at 20% rate. Russian CFC rules may tax undistributed profits if passive income exceeds 50% threshold. Place of effective management rules could trigger Russian corporate taxation. Consider restructuring before relocating or establishing parallel Russian entities. Document management activities and decision-making locations carefully. Treaty benefits may not apply to hybrid entities. Professional guidance is essential for cross-border structures.

Q: How does Russia tax U.S. Social Security benefits?

Under the U.S.-Russia tax treaty, U.S. Social Security benefits received by U.S. citizens remain taxable only in the United States, regardless of Russian residence status. This exclusive source-country taxation means Russia cannot tax these benefits. For U.S. tax purposes, up to 85% of benefits may be taxable depending on total income. The lack of Russian taxation on U.S. Social Security provides a planning advantage for retirees. However, Russian state pensions received by U.S. citizens would be taxable in both countries with foreign tax credits available.

Q: Can I use the Russian healthcare system, and how does it affect my taxes?

Russian residents must have medical insurance through the mandatory OMS system or private coverage. Mandatory medical insurance (5.1% of wages) is paid by employers with no direct employee contribution. Private health insurance premiums may be partially deductible up to 120,000 rubles annually as part of social deductions. Additional medical expenses can be deducted within the same 120,000 ruble limit. U.S. expats satisfy ACA requirements through Russian coverage. International insurance for U.S. visits typically isn't Russian-deductible. The employer-paid OMS contributions aren't taxable income for U.S. purposes.

Q: What triggers Russian tax audits, and how should I prepare?

Russian tax authorities employ risk-based selection for audits. Common triggers include discrepancies between declared and third-party reported income, unusually high deductions or refund claims, frequent amended returns, international transactions lacking proper documentation, and income inconsistent with lifestyle or assets. U.S. expats face scrutiny due to foreign income and complex reporting. Preparation strategies include maintaining Russian translations of key documents, working with qualified Russian tax advisors, documenting foreign tax credits and treaty positions, keeping detailed records of residence days and income sources, and responding promptly to tax notices (typically 10-day deadlines). Desk audits are common, with field audits for significant issues. The statute of limitations is generally three years.

Why Choose American Expat CPA as Your Tax Partner

Navigating the intersection of U.S. and Russian tax systems requires specialized expertise that goes beyond traditional tax preparation. At American Expat CPA, we've built our practice specifically around the unique challenges faced by U.S. citizens living abroad, with particular depth in Russian tax matters.

Our Specialized Expertise

Our team combines U.S. tax expertise with deep knowledge of Russian tax law and regulations. We maintain relationships with trusted Russian tax consultants to ensure seamless coordination of your dual filing obligations. Our professionals stay current with both U.S. tax reform and Russian legislative changes, including the impact of Russia's evolving tax system and international reporting requirements.

We understand that every expat situation is unique. Whether you're a professional on an HQS visa maximizing foreign tax credits, an entrepreneur navigating Russian business taxation, or managing investments across both countries, we develop customized strategies that optimize your specific circumstances. Our approach goes beyond compliance – we proactively identify opportunities to legally minimize your global tax burden while ensuring full compliance in both jurisdictions.

Comprehensive Service Offering

Technology-Enabled Global Service

We've built our practice for the digital age, serving clients across Russia and worldwide through secure, cloud-based systems. Our portal provides 24/7 access to your documents, secure messaging with your tax team, and digital signature capabilities that eliminate the need for physical meetings. We conduct video consultations that accommodate Russian time zones, ensuring convenient access to expert advice regardless of your location in Russia.

Transparent, Value-Based Pricing

We believe in transparent pricing with no surprise bills. Our comprehensive expat tax packages include all necessary forms and schedules, with clear pricing for additional services like amended returns or multi-state filings. Most importantly, our fee structure is designed to deliver value – the tax savings we identify typically far exceed our professional fees, making our services a smart investment in your financial future.

Your Success is Our Mission

Living in Russia as a U.S. expat should be about experiencing the rich culture, pursuing professional opportunities, and building your life abroad – not stressing about tax compliance. We handle the complexity of dual taxation so you can focus on your career and life in Russia. Our clients consistently save thousands in taxes while gaining peace of mind that their obligations are properly managed.

Whether you're planning your move to Russia, already established as a resident, or anywhere in between, American Expat CPA provides the expertise and support you need. We understand the expat journey because we specialize exclusively in international tax matters for U.S. citizens abroad.