According to Expat Explorer Survey (HSBC bank), the top three most profitable countries for skilled immigrants are Russia, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

The welfare of the expats was defined by three criteria: annual income of over 200,000 USD, disposable monthly income of over 3,000 USD and ownership of luxury items, informs Vedomosti.

The report reads that 36% of the foreigners employed in Russia earn over 250,000 USD annually. Over 75% of the expats in Russia say that they would earn less if they were working in their mother countries. Over 76% of the respondents say they can save up and invest in Russia more than they could in the countries of their origin.

Following the HSBC, 45% of the expats are disturbed by the current political and economic situation in Russia; but only 4% of them are considering a return home.

Still, the calculations of Christian Lepolard (the partner of Antal Russia) contradict to the report of HSBC. He says, that 250,000 USD is too high even for Russia, and the real figures are on the level of 150,000 USD annually for 75% of the expats.

Antal Russia recruitment agency categorizes the skilled immigrants in Russia into two groups:

First group is for temporary workers that come to Russia for 2-3 years. Since local life standard is considered to be low, then the employers pay high extra bonuses on top the salary to the expats working in Russia. According to RosExpert, the bonuses may reach 40-50%. Besides, some employers compensate rent expenses and medical insurance.

Second group includes expats that have been living in Russia for a long time, speaking Russia and making a career of his/her own. This group enjoys even higher salaries.

Source: Barentsnova