What to Expect on Your First Day in Russia: A Bangladeshi Student’s Survival Guide
You’ve just stepped off the plane, and it’s finally real — you’re in Russia. After months of preparing, applying for your visa, and saying goodbye to everything familiar, you’re now starting a brand-new chapter. It’s exciting… but also a little intimidating, right?
The language sounds unfamiliar, the weather might be a shock, and for now, it feels like you’re all on your own. But guess what? You’re not. Every international student feels this way in the beginning. And with a bit of guidance, your first day doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful — it can actually be something to smile about.
Arriving in Russia: Immigration & Customs
As soon as you step off the plane, your first challenge is passing through immigration. At passport control, an officer will check your documents, including your passport, visa, and a migration card. This migration card is a small but extremely important document that you’ll receive either on the plane or at the airport. It serves as proof of your entry into Russia, and you’ll need it for official registration. Losing it can cause unnecessary complications, so keep it safe with your passport. If you don’t speak Russian, don’t panic—some officers understand basic English, and major international airports have English-speaking staff at information desks.
Once you’ve cleared immigration, you’ll go through customs. If you’re carrying more than $10,000 in cash, high-value electronics, or certain medications, you must declare them. Many Bangladeshi students bring food from home, like dried fish (shutki) or spices, but be cautious—Russian customs do not allow fresh meat, dairy products, or fruits to be brought in from abroad.
Finding Your Way from the Airport
After collecting your luggage, the next step is getting to your university or accommodation. This might seem simple, but many new students fall into the trap of taking an overpriced taxi. Inside the airport, unofficial taxi drivers often approach foreigners and offer rides at extremely high prices.
It’s best to avoid them. Instead, use reliable taxi apps like Yandex Go or Citymobil, which work like Uber and offer fair rates. You can also take the Aeroexpress train if you’re in Moscow or St. Petersburg—it’s a fast and convenient way to reach the city center. Some universities even provide airport pickup for new students, so check if your university offers this service before you arrive.
Settling Into Your Accommodation
Once you arrive in Russia, finding the right place to stay is one of your top priorities. Whether you’re staying in university dorms or private accommodation, it’s essential to ensure that everything is in order. In Russia, you’ll need to register your stay with local authorities, which can sometimes be a complex process.
Fortunately, ROGO’s expert document services can help you prepare all the important paperwork for accommodation registration, ensuring a smooth process. Whether it’s handling your housing contract or assisting with the migration registration required by Russian law, ROGO's team will guide you every step of the way, making sure all your documents are in proper order.
This support will save you time and stress, so you can focus on settling into your new home and enjoying your experience in Russia. If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to ROGO for assistance with your documents.
Getting a SIM Card & Internet
One of the first things you’ll need is a Russian SIM card. As of January 2025, Russia has introduced stricter regulations for foreigners purchasing SIMs. You must now buy your SIM in person at an official telecom store, as online purchases are no longer allowed. The required documents include your passport with a notarized Russian translation, a SNILS number, and an active Gosuslugi account. Additionally, biometric data submission and linking the SIM to your device’s IMEI are now mandatory. If you already have a Russian SIM, re-registration with biometrics is required by July 1, 2025, or your service may be suspended. Click here for a detailed guide on the process.
Exchanging Money & Opening a Bank Account
Having Russian rubles on hand is essential for your first few days. While you can exchange money at the airport, the rates are often lower than in the city. It’s better to exchange a small amount for immediate expenses and then visit a bank or exchange office for better rates. Russia’s major banks, such as Sberbank, VTB, and Alfa-Bank, offer reliable exchange services. If you plan to stay in Russia for a long time, opening a local bank account is a good idea. Some banks, like Tinkoff, offer English-friendly online banking, making it easier to manage your finances.
Your First Meal in Russia
After a long journey, you’ll definitely be hungry. Russian food may feel unfamiliar at first, but there are plenty of options to suit different tastes. If you’re looking for something similar to home, try plov, a rice dish that’s quite similar to Bangladeshi polao. Shawarma is another popular and affordable option, widely available in food stalls and cafes. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try pelmeni (Russian dumplings) or borscht (beetroot soup). If you prefer South Asian flavors, check if your city has Indian or Central Asian restaurants—they often serve dishes similar to Bangladeshi cuisine.
Learning Basic Russian Phrases
While some Russians speak English, especially in big cities, knowing a few basic Russian phrases can make daily life much easier—whether you’re shopping, using public transport, or just being polite. Even small efforts to speak Russian can leave a positive impression and help you navigate daily interactions with confidence.
🗣 Здравствуйте (Zdravstvuyte) – Hello
🗣 Спасибо (Spasibo) – Thank you
🗣 Сколько стоит? (Skol’ko stoit?) – How much does it cost?
🗣 Пожалуйста (Pozhaluysta) – Please / You’re welcome
🗣 Где метро? (Gde metro?) – Where is the metro?
🗣 Я не говорю по-русски (Ya ne govoryu po-russki) – I don’t speak Russian
🗣 Вы говорите по-английски? (Vy govorite po-angliyski?) – Do you speak English?
Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, most Russians appreciate the effort. Over time, learning more Russian will make your experience in Russia much smoother and more enjoyable.
Want to feel more confident speaking Russian? Join ROGO’s free Russian language Class and start learning today!
Finding Other Bangladeshi Students
Moving to a new country can feel overwhelming at first, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Many Bangladeshi students are already studying in Russia, and connecting with them can make your transition much easier. Russian On The Go (ROGO) has a well-established student community across different cities in Russia, providing a welcoming, family-like environment for newcomers.
By joining the ROGO student network, you can get helpful advice on daily life, find roommates, attend community events, and even celebrate familiar festivals together. Whether you need guidance on studies, accommodation, or just want to make friends, you’ll always find someone ready to help.
Want to connect with other Bangladeshi students in Russia? Reach out to ROGO today!
Final Thoughts: Your Russian Journey Begins!
Your first day in Russia might feel overwhelming but remember—every international student goes through this adjustment phase. Take things step by step, be patient with yourself, and soon you’ll start feeling at home. Over time, you’ll get used to the language, the food, and the culture. There are many resources available to help you settle in, from university support services to student communities.
If you ever feel stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Whether it’s finding accommodation, navigating visa formalities, or getting comfortable with the language, there are services to support you at every step of your journey. Enjoy your new adventure in Russia—this is just the beginning of an exciting and life-changing experience!
Planning on studying in Russia?
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