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24.07.2006 Dual Citizens / Heritage Speakers What is a "heritage speaker?" A heritage speaker is someone who has grown up speaking a second language in an informal environment. Very often this refers to the children of immigrants who speak, for example, English on the street and Russian at home. Heritage speakers often have the ability to speak fluently on a conversational level but lack specialized vocabulary and formal training in grammar. Can I enroll in a short-term study abroad program with my Russian passport? Heritage speakers with dual-citizenship should be aware that, while their Russian passport is valid for travel to Russia, it does not allow for enrolment in non-degree programs in Russian universities. Non-degree programs are intended only for foreigners in Russia; enrolment is done on the basis of a Russian visa, issued to a foreign passport. This poses a catch-22, of course, because the Russian consulate will usually deny a visa request on the basis that the applicant holds a Russian passport and thus does not need a visa. If you are intent on short-term study in Russia, you will need to give up your Russian citizenship, a process that can take up to six months. Can I enroll in a degree program on the basis of my Russian passport? Yes. However, you will be expected to complete the same rigorous screening and application process (usually involves an interview and written tests) that other Russian students must complete. SRAS is not authorized to work with students applying as Russian citizens. What special safety issues should I be aware of? If you enter Russia on a Russian passport both the Russian government and the American Embassy will consider you a Russian citizen while you are inside Russia. Students who find themselves in trouble with the authorities for whatever reason cannot expect the American Embassy to assist them. « back to Student Guide to Russia archive print this page email this page