Set up a Foundation in Russia
Find out how to set up a foundation in Russia, the registration procedure and the formalities involved, with guidance from our company formation team.
This article provides information on how to establish a foundation in Russia. Immediate assistance and guidance can be provided by our specialists in company formation in Russia as soon as you access our online services.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Legal framework | Governed by the Civil Code of the Russian Federation and Federal Law on Non-Profit Organizations |
Purposes to open a foundation | Raise funds for: social, charitable, educational, scientific, cultural events |
Types of foundations | – charitable, – cultural, – educational, – scientific, – non-commercial foundations |
| Minimum capital (Yes/No) | No minimum capital is required. |
| Founders | Legal entities or individuals |
| Governing body | Board of trustees or a supervisory board |
| Registration of a foundation (Yes/No) | Yes, it requires registration with the Ministry of Justice or local authorities. |
| Required documents | Charter, founding documents, application forms and information of founders |
| Tax status | Non-taxable on donations if registered as a non-commercial organization |
| Accounting requirements | Must maintain financial records, submit annual reports, and undergo audits. |
| Funding sources | Donations, grants, fundraising, government support, and from other non-commercial activities |
| Operating obligations | Must operate according to its charter and report activities to authorities. |
| Duration | Foundations operate indefinitely unless otherwise stated in their charter. |
| Dissolution procedure | Must follow legal procedures involving liquidation, asset distribution, and notifying authorities. |
| Legal assistance | Find support from our law firm in Russia for registration, compliance, and operational issues. |
How is a foundation known in Russia?
Charitable foundation - blagotvoritelny fond in Russian.
Who can establish foundations in Russia?
Individuals or entities/companies.
What is the status of a foundation in Russia?
- non-profit organization,
- non-membership organization.
What is the purpose of a foundation in Russia?
Can serve various causes:
- Social,
- Educational,
- Cultural,
- Religious, etc.
Where do I register a foundation in Russia?
At the Ministry of Justice of Russia.
What is the minimum capital required?
Not imposed.
What are the required documents for opening a foundation in Russia?
- completed Form R11001,
- IDs of shareholders/owners of the foundation,
- authorized signatures of founders,
- foundation’s Deed or Charter,
- resolution of establishment,
- proof of paid registration fee (approx. RUB 4,000), etc.
NOTES:
- IDs or passports must be notarized first,
- a Letter of Guarantee from the property owner leasing the office space is also needed,
- all documents must be translated into Russian if foreigners are establishing a foundation.
Do I need to register a foundation for tax purposes in Russia?
Yes, with the Federal Tax Service – FTS in Russia.
What is the taxation of foundations in Russia?
- there is no corporate income tax imposed if the charity is not offering paid services,
- 25% is the CIT for foundations developing merchandise and/or paid services in Russia.
Do I need an accountant after opening a Russian foundation?
Yes. Foundations in Russia need to maintain specific accounting lines.
Can foundations implement charitable work in Russia?
Yes.
Can a Russian foundation develop community-related activities?
Absolutely.
Can foundations in Russia be involved in environmental projects?
Yes, environmental protection can be another area of interest for those who want to set up a foundation in Russia.
REMARK: The formation of a foundation for public benefits like housing people without accommodation, supplying food, clothes, and education is also a proper option. Such charities can be developed in poor regions of Russia, where financial assistance is more than welcome.
What is the time frame to open a foundation in Russia?
About 2 months until it is active.
Foreign entrepreneurs who want to open a company in Russia are advised to use the complete services offered by our accountants in Russia. Don’t hesitate to contact us for support and any other legal services you need when you want to set up a foundation in Russia.
Evgeny M. Kuznetsov, Attorney at Law · 2 October 2026Evgeny M. Kuznetsov is the managing partner and founder of Herman & Smith LLC.