Moscow's Multifunctional Migration Center (MMC) answered a question from a foreigner who has lived in Russia for eight years without leaving the country and has worked on a patent the entire time. He wanted to apply for Russian citizenship under the general procedure, but the center said his application would not be accepted.
Under the law, adult foreigners with full legal capacity may apply for citizenship under the general procedure if they have lived in Russia continuously for five years from the day they received a residence permit (VNZh) until the day they apply.
The center explained that foreigners fall into three categories. Holders of a residence permit are permanent residents, holders of a temporary residence permit (RVP, including RVPO) are temporary residents, and foreigners with none of these documents are classed as temporarily staying. Holding only a patent means the last status, so years worked on a patent do not count toward citizenship.
In another reply, the center said simplified grounds that refer to a "permanently residing foreign citizen" also require a residence permit; the simplification only waives the five-year residence period.
The MMC advises foreigners who plan to seek citizenship to first obtain an RVP or residence permit on a suitable basis. Document lists are available in the online personal account service for RVP, residence permits and citizenship, and on the center's website.