It is crucial to learn the Russian etiquette for Indian students so that they can navigate their student journey without any hassle. If you are someone who is planning to or about to pursue their MBBS in Russia, then you need to become accustomed to their culture beforehand.
The MBBS abroad for Indian students is an experience of a lifetime. You are going to make great friends, enjoy a great study environment, and graduate to become an excellent doctor. But before that, let’s learn some Russian etiquette!
Greetings in Russia: How to Say Hello the Right Way
One of the most important Russian etiquette for Indian students to learn is greetings! Check out below the do’s and don’ts for greetings in this nation.
Do’s
- Give a firm handshake and look people in the eye: It shows you’re confident and respectful.
- Use polite greetings in formal or work settings: Saying “Здравствуйте” (Zdravstvuyte) is always safe and respectful.
- Use both first names and patronymics (like a middle name) when you’re talking to someone older or in a senior position, it’s a sign of good manners.
- Take off your gloves before you shake hands: It’s the polite thing to do!
- Bring a small gift when you visit someone’s home: Sweets, flowers, or something thoughtful are always appreciated.
- Be mindful of personal space: Russians usually stand a bit closer when they chat, but don’t overdo it.
- When in doubt, follow your host’s lead: If they use first name and patronymic, you should too. It’s the best way to show respect.
Don’ts
- Never shake hands across a doorway or threshold: It’s thought to bring bad luck, always step inside first!
- Don’t get too familiar with people you’ve just met: Stick to formal greetings and titles until they say it’s okay to be more casual.
- You should not act too casual in formal situations: Keep things polite and professional, and wait for others to invite you to relax a bit.
- Don’t hesitate to ask if you’re unsure about something: It’s much better to check than accidentally offend someone!
➨ Also Read: Why Studying MBBS in Russia is the Best Decision in 2025?
Personal Space & Body Language: Respect the Boundaries
Another important part of Russian etiquette for Indian students is respecting boundaries. See below the do’s and don’ts when it comes to personal space and body language.
Do’s
- Expect less personal space: Russians often stand or sit closer during conversations than people do in some other cultures, so expect less personal space.
- Only smile when necessary: Smile only when you truly mean it, because random smiles can be misunderstood.
Don’ts
- Don’t back away: If someone stands or sits close to you, don’t take it as a sign of aggression. There’s no need to back away.
- You should not stare for too long: Avoid staring for too long because intense eye contact can seem aggressive or intrusive.
- Avoid whistling indoors: Don’t whistle indoors because it’s traditionally seen as bad luck and linked to losing money.
Table Manners: Dining Do’s and Don’ts
Now, it’s time to look at some manners you need to adopt for dining in Russia.
Do’s
- Use utensils properly: Hold them the right way and use them from the outside in, based on the dish being served.
- Chew with your mouth closed: Avoid making noise or talking with food in your mouth.
- Use your napkin: Keep it on your lap and use it to dab your mouth gently, not wipe it roughly.
- Keep noise down: Try not to clink utensils, chew loudly, or make distracting sounds.
- Join the conversation: Talk with others at the table, but stay away from arguments or sensitive topics.
- Wait to eat: Make sure everyone has their food before you start, unless the host tells you to begin.
- Pass food politely: Offer food to others first before you serve yourself.
- Excuse yourself properly: If you need to leave the table, do it politely.
- Say thank you: Always thank your host for the meal and show you appreciate their hospitality.
Don’ts
- Don’t talk with your mouth full: Always chew with your mouth closed and speak only when you’re done chewing.
- You should not reach across the table: Politely ask someone to pass what you need instead.
- Avoid overloading your plate: Take only as much food as you can comfortably finish.
- Don’t slouch or put your elbows on the table: Sit up straight and keep your elbows off the table.
- Avoid using your phone: Keep it off the table and on silent or vibrate.
- Never interrupt others: Let people finish speaking before you add your thoughts.
- Don’t be too picky: Try at least a little of everything that’s served, even if it’s new to you.
- You should not play with your food: Avoid fiddling with your meal or making shapes with your utensils.
- Don’t push your plate away when you’re done: Place your utensils neatly on your plate to show you’ve finished.
- Never forget your manners: Be polite and respectful to everyone at the table.
How to Behave in Public Places?
Behaving in public places is among the most vital Russian etiquette for Indian students to learn. Check out below how you can ensure acceptable behaviour in public places in Russia.
Do’s
Respect elders and people in authority: Be polite and show proper respect to older people and those with senior roles.
- Be punctual: Even though Russians can be flexible with time, it is still best to arrive on time for meetings or appointments.
- Offer your seat: On buses or trains, give up your seat to older people, pregnant women, or parents with small children.
- Maintain eye contact: Look people in the eye when you talk. It shows you’re listening and that you respect them.
- Dress neatly: Wear tidy clothes that fit the situation. Avoid wearing sports shoes in restaurants or bars.
- Keep noise down: Try to stay quiet in residential areas, especially at night and on weekends.
- Learn basic greetings: Simple words like “Здравствуйте” (Hello) help you connect better with people.
- Stay alert: Be careful with your belongings in busy places and watch out for pickpockets.
- Follow local habits: If you’re unsure what to do, watch how people around you behave and do the same.
Don’ts
- Never smile at strangers for no reason. Smiling too much at people you don’t know can feel insincere.
- Don’t sit with your legs wide apart. It can come across as rude.
- Avoid keeping your hands in your pockets when talking. Take them out when you speak to someone.
- Don’t shake hands across a doorway. It’s seen as bad luck.
- One should not leave empty bottles on the table. Put them on the floor instead — it’s a common custom.
- Avoid acting too casual with strangers. Be polite and respectful until you know them better.
- Don’t talk too loudly or argue in public. Keep your voice down, especially in homes or residential areas.
- You should not take photos of restricted places. Always check the rules before you take pictures or videos.
Dress Code Etiquette: What’s Appropriate in Russia
Your dressing sense should be in line with the fashion and cultural sense of Russia. Have a look at the do’s and don’ts for dress code etiquette in Russia.
Do’s
- Dress neatly and tidy: Looking well-groomed shows respect for the people you’re meeting and the situation you’re in.
- Dress for the occasion: Wear formal clothes for business meetings, events, or nice restaurants. Even for casual outings, choose clean, presentable clothes and skip anything too sloppy.
- Men should wear suits or smart jackets with trousers and polished shoes: This is standard for formal or business settings.
- Women should choose business suits or dresses: Skirts should be knee-length or longer, and outfits should look elegant.
- Keep your shoes polished: Clean, well-kept shoes are important, especially at work or formal events.
- Layer your clothes: This is helpful in Russia’s cold weather, so you stay comfortable indoors and outdoors.
- Pack a scarf: It’s practical for warmth and can be styled in different ways.
Don’ts
- Avoid wearing overly casual clothes: Jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are not right for formal or semi-formal situations.
- Don’t wear dirty or scuffed shoes: Your shoes should always be clean and in good condition.
- Never wear outfits that are too short, tight, or revealing: This is especially true for women in professional or formal settings.
- You should not wear sportswear to restaurants or bars: Athletic shoes and clothes are fine for the gym, but not for dining out unless it’s a sports venue.
Conclusion
Adapting to a new culture isn’t just about rules; it’s about respect and the willingness to blend your values with those of your new home. For Indian students pursuing MBBS in Russia, these small gestures make a big difference in how smoothly you settle in and how warmly you’re welcomed.
Do you want to pursue your MBBS in Russia? If so, please contact Rus Education for complete support!
FAQs
Q.1 What is the basic etiquette in Russia?
Answer: Close male friends often hug and give each other a pat on the back. In general, when meeting a Russian for the first time, whether they’re male or female, it’s polite to greet them with a firm handshake while keeping eye contact. Avoid looking away, as it can seem rude or show a lack of interest. Also, men should always wait for a woman to extend her hand first.
Q.2 Can I wear jeans in Russia?
Answer: It’s completely fine to wear jeans in Russia since denim is very popular there. You can visit museums, churches, and restaurants without any issues while wearing jeans. However, Russians do enjoy dressing well, so it’s better to choose more polished outfits if you’re going to fancy restaurants, nightclubs, or the theatre.
Q.3 Is Russia cheap to visit?
Answer: Yes, Russia is often quite affordable, especially when you compare it to other European countries. Big cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg can cost more, but there are plenty of ways to save money on places to stay, food, and transport. So whether you’re on a tight budget or want to splurge a little, Russia has options for everyone.
Q.4 Is a Russia visa free for Indians?
Answer: No, Russia isn’t visa-free for Indian citizens at the moment. Right now, you still need a visa to enter, stay, or leave the country. However, there are reports that Russia and India are discussing a possible visa-free group travel option, which might be available by spring 2025.
Q.5 Is studying in Russia worth it for Indian students?
Answer: One big reason Indian students choose to study in Russia is that it’s much more affordable. Tuition fees at Russian universities cost only a fraction of what you’d spend in Western countries like the USA, UK, or Australia.
