How to Prepare for Relocation: Recommendations for Solo Developers and Game Studios

Contents:

• What is relocation?
• What problems in modern domestic industry lead to relocation?
• An indie developer moves independently
• An employee is moved by a company
• Relocation of a legal entity
• Results

After February 24th, a significant portion of the Russian game development industry left the country, and the migration process continues. Relocation is fraught with numerous challenges, both general and specific to different categories of specialists. The experience of employees at large IT companies often differs radically from that of independent developers and owners of small game studios. Understanding these differences is important for successful adaptation to the new environment and minimizing potential difficulties in a new location.

Skillbox Media's GameDev editorial team interviewed three professionals from the gaming industry and, based on their experience, developed universal recommendations for preparing for relocation. These tips will not only help you successfully adapt to a new environment but also minimize the stress associated with relocation. It is important to study the culture and characteristics of the destination country in advance, gather all the necessary documents, and consider financial aspects. It's also helpful to establish contacts with local specialists and industry players to ease the integration process. Preparing for relocation requires careful planning, and following these recommendations can significantly ease the transition to a new professional environment.

What is relocation?

Relocation or relocation are terms that have become an integral part of the language of IT specialists. Typically, this process involves the relocation of an employee or group of employees to a new office located in another city or country. However, recently, the meaning of this word has changed somewhat in the Russian-speaking segment. Now, relocation is increasingly associated with a forced move to another country, while maintaining the prospect of returning if conditions permit. Relocation is becoming a relevant solution for specialists seeking to adapt to new living and working conditions.

The specifics of relocation directly depend on the visa requirements of the chosen country. In countries with a long-term visa-free regime, temporary residence and remote work as a tourist are possible. However, to live and work in other countries, you will need a work visa, and later, a residence permit, which significantly complicates the process of preparing for the move.

What problems in the modern domestic industry lead to relocation?

• One of the main reasons forcing specialists to relocate is the significant fees on incoming dollar transfers at some banks. Also, one cannot rule out possible problems with SWIFT transfers from abroad in the future, up to and including their complete cessation due to sanctions.
• Despite the emergence of alternative services and the willingness of developers to support them, many Russian players are not yet ready to switch from Steam to other platforms. Furthermore, most games are created with the international market in mind, and purchasing a Steam Direct slot from Russia is only possible through roundabout routes. The mobile gaming market is also in crisis.
• There is a risk of being denied cooperation with potential investors and partners from abroad.
• Some well-known platforms have blocked access to 3D artists, depriving them of payments.

The reasons for moving can be varied, but when relocating, specialists inevitably face common tasks, such as collecting documents, finding housing, organizing the transportation of things, and settling into a new place. However, the specifics of these tasks may vary depending on the specific situation. Let's consider three typical scenarios.

Indie developer moves independently

Sergey Noskov left Russia and moved to Armenia at the end of September, during the second wave of mass migration. This decision was made spontaneously, and it took him only a few days to prepare for the move.

Sergey avoided the massive traffic jam in Verkhniy Lars, which began on September 21st, by choosing to fly. Due to weight restrictions, he had to carefully consider his luggage. Transporting his working PC was crucial for the developer. He dismantled the system unit's components, including the hard drives and graphics card, and packed them in carry-on luggage. The system unit and monitor were shipped via a shipping company. Sergey had heard many stories about problems with equipment clearance at the border, but in his case, everything went smoothly. The package was delivered to his new residence in about a week. Sergey's experience highlights the importance of proper packaging and choosing a reliable shipping method for the safe relocation of computer equipment.

The developer's move and adaptation to Armenia were successful Thanks to the country's loyal attitude. The local population is friendly and welcoming, and most residents speak Russian. Some familiar Russian services are available in Armenia, such as Yandex Go and Yandex.Food. Mir cards also work here, although not everywhere. In the future, Sergey is considering becoming an individual entrepreneur, if the need arises.

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Being an indie developer is not associated with bureaucracy, which allows you to quickly adapt to new conditions after moving. This facilitates the process of getting into the work rhythm and promotes the efficient use of time for project development. Indie developers can focus on creativity and innovation, which makes their work more flexible and productive.

I retained my Russian individual entrepreneurship, as transactions between countries continue to take place. For convenience, I needed to issue a local bank card for individuals. At the beginning of the year, Russian citizens could easily open an account in Armenia, but due to increased workload and new requirements from banks, the process has become more complicated. For example, obtaining a card now requires a notarized translation of your passport and the original apartment lease agreement. I also prepared extracts from the Russian Unified State Register of Individual Entrepreneurs and from my sole proprietorship bank account, but the bank showed little interest in them. The account was opened in approximately 3-4 days.

At the moment, my conditions here seem quite comfortable, and I have no intention of considering moving to other countries.

Sergey Noskov is an indie developer known for his unique projects such as The Light and 35 mm. His work stands out for its original approach and engaging gameplay. Noskov actively experiments with new ideas and technologies, which allows him to create unforgettable gaming experiences. Sergey's indie games attract the attention of not only players but also critics, confirming his status as a significant developer in the industry.

If you need to relocate urgently, it's worth considering options in neighboring countries. You can enter Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan with a Russian passport. Opening local debit cards depends on the requirements of each bank. For example, in Armenia, a foreign passport is sufficient to open an account with one bank, while other institutions may require a local legal entity or a lease agreement. Terms and conditions for services are constantly changing due to the current instability, so it's important to check the current requirements in advance.

• A computer or laptop is a freelancer's or indie developer's primary tool; it's essential to work. Therefore, if you use a PC, you need to plan ahead for transporting the hardware. You can disassemble it and pack it in a suitcase, but even with careful packing, some parts can still be damaged in the luggage compartment. Alternatively, you can follow Sergey's example and arrange partial delivery via a shipping company, with key components carried in carry-on luggage. It's also important to ensure the safety of your data, developments, and projects by uploading them to cloud storage. Having a financial cushion and/or a source of regular income is crucial. Before your trip, it's worth estimating the approximate cost of a month's stay in another country (rent and living expenses) and your solvency for the next six months. Find out current rental prices. Migration has caused a price hike, especially in neighboring countries, and many enterprising realtors are trying to profit from the hype. Never rent an apartment remotely for long-term residence; there's a high risk of being scammed. If the market is overheated, consider options in resort towns, which have a large number of rental spaces. In autumn and winter, when tourist traffic is reduced, the chances of finding accommodation there are much higher.
• Give a general power of attorney to a close relative so that they can represent your interests in Russia.
• If you're traveling to neighboring countries, be sure to have some cash ready to exchange currency at the airport or after crossing the border, to pay for taxis and purchase a local SIM card. The exchange rate in these areas is typically unfavorable, so it's not recommended to exchange large sums. In many European countries, the situation is different: currency exchange offices may refuse to accept rubles, so it is important to stock up on dollars or euros in advance, but no more than $10,000.

• Find out in advance the maximum length of stay in the country, the conditions for obtaining a residence permit, and the procedure for extending your passport. If you're staying for a long time, inquire about income taxes and familiarize yourself with the tax rules in Russia for non-residents (if you're staying in another country for 183 days or more).
• In most countries, medical treatment for foreign citizens is expensive, so it's important to resolve all health-related issues before departure—if possible. Travel insurance can be helpful in emergency situations, but only for the initial period—you should purchase it before your trip. Upon arrival, familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of local insurance companies and sign a contract. Additionally, it's a good idea to pack a first aid kit with essential medications, as finding replacements in a new location can take time.
• Given the current high demand for document apostilles, first find out whether you need to undergo this procedure—in some countries, apostilles are not required.
• Familiarize yourself with the cultural characteristics and laws of the country you plan to move to. This will reduce the risk of running into unexpected or unpleasant situations.
• Learn at least a few basic phrases in the official language: this will help you quickly establish rapport with local residents and win their favor. English may also be needed not only outside the CIS: it is also in demand in some neighboring countries, for example, Georgia.
• Subscribe to thematic chats - there you can find useful information, ask questions, get support, and even make friends.

The employee is being relocated by the company

Danil Kamenev began his career at Ravenage publishing house in the summer of 2021. After February 24, the company faced serious difficulties in work processes, which negatively impacted the efficiency of all departments. As a result, there were threats of losing potential collaborations with foreign partners and the opportunity to participate in significant international conferences. These challenges required the Ravenage team to adapt and find new ways to maintain productivity and development in a changing market.

The company decided to relocate to Georgia based on attractive conditions, including a one-year visa-free regime and a friendly population. Despite its complex history as a neighbor to Russia, Georgia offers unique business opportunities. Upon arrival in the country, management immediately began the process of preparing the necessary documents for the company's relocation to Batumi, which will allow it to operate effectively in the new region and take full advantage of the local market.

Ravenage employees were offered a choice: relocate to Georgia or continue working in Russia. Those who chose to remain in the country did not lose their jobs and switched to a remote work format. The first wave of relocation lasted until April-May, and the second, which was even larger, took place in September and October.

Company management has prepared a special relocation package for employees moving to a new location. This package includes payment for tickets and temporary housing, and provides informational support on issues related to relocation and adaptation in the new location. After the relocation is complete, employees immediately receive new salary cards, which simplifies the process of financial security in the new city.

In the summer in Batumi, our team celebrated the first anniversary of Ravenage's founding. Currently, our office is located on three spacious floors. One of the floors has a recreation area and a kitchen, and the other two contain workstations and a coworking space. This space occasionally brings together developers with whom we collaborate and maintain friendly relationships.

The organization is actively working on the paperwork to provide relocated employees with residence permits in Georgia. This process is not without its challenges, and the first attempt to apply for a residence permit was unsuccessful. We are currently awaiting information on the review of the second request.

The company has successfully established itself in the new market thanks to the efforts of Elena Morina, CEO of Ravenage. Her significant contribution and professionalism were key factors in this achievement.

Danil Kamenev serves as Business Development Officer at Ravenage. In this role, he is responsible for business development and the implementation of strategies aimed at expanding the client base and improving interactions with partners. During his time at Ravenage, Danil has achieved significant success, contributing to the company's growth in a competitive market. His expertise in business analysis and strategic planning allows him to effectively identify new opportunities for development and implement innovative solutions.

When an employer organizes employee relocation, the employee is less concerned about creating a financial cushion compared to relocating independently. This is because they maintain a stable income, and the company can reimburse some expenses. This approach allows the employee to focus on adapting to the new environment, which in turn positively impacts their productivity and job satisfaction. Employer-organized relocation facilitates a smoother transition and reduces the stress associated with a change of residence.

Bureaucratic difficulties are reduced by the organization taking on employee registration. It helps obtain foreign bank cards and, in the future, residence permits. Depending on their financial capabilities, some companies are willing to offer relocation assistance for employees' families. This makes the adaptation process easier and more comfortable for new employees and their loved ones.

• It's a good idea to learn in advance how familiar services work in another country and, if necessary, find alternatives. It also wouldn't hurt to register backup accounts with the new geolocation on the services you already use (in case support for Russian accounts is discontinued).
• Collect the necessary documents (the content depends on the relocation location; if possible, consult with your employer) - including for pets, if you'll be transporting them.
• Book a hotel remotely and look for housing after the move. Danil advises not to delay your search, but also not to jump at the first option that comes along. Offers from realtors and private individuals vary significantly in price, favoring the latter. It's worth considering that renting an apartment for people with pets is much more difficult and often more expensive.
• Packaging depends on the route. If you plan to make numerous transfers, for example, from plane to train to ground transportation, it's best to pack minimally at first. After moving, find a freight shipping service from Russia to your host country and, if possible, arrange for shared delivery with colleagues: this will be more cost-effective.
• Even if you usually prefer to travel alone, it's best to team up with colleagues when relocating. Together, preparing for the move goes much faster, and getting used to life in an unfamiliar country is easier when you have like-minded people nearby.

Relocation of a Legal Entity

At the end of February, when Russia faced a new package of sanctions, the future of small studios dependent on foreign orders was in jeopardy. Yaroslav Kravtsov, founder of the Masterskaya 15 studio, realized the need to relocate his business and began searching for suitable options. Ultimately, he chose Georgia and arrived in Tbilisi in early March. This decision allowed him to preserve his studio and adapt to new realities, opening up opportunities for development in the changing economic environment.

During the paperwork, it became clear that registering as an individual entrepreneur (IE) is not difficult. However, for an IE to be successful, it is necessary to open a separate bank account. This account is necessary for receiving payments from foreign clients and for making payments to employees working outside the country. Proper bank account registration is an important step for conducting international business and ensuring financial transparency.

At the end of February, legal entities with Russian passports were still able to open accounts. However, by the time Yaroslav arrived, banks had begun rejecting applications, fearing sanctions from both the European Union and Russia. The situation culminated in even a bank that exclusively serves legal entities and requires a $1,000 deposit refusing to open an account. This highlights the complexity and instability of the financial environment for companies with Russian passports under international sanctions.

Under the current circumstances, it has become clear that the country's banking system does not support company founders with Russian passports. Even if an application is approved, there is no guarantee that the account holder will be able to withdraw or transfer funds without problems. This creates serious risks, especially when it comes to paying salaries to employees. Due to these circumstances, Yaroslav began looking for alternative options for business relocation.

Given the tense foreign policy situation, I decided to focus on countries that are not neighboring Russia and have not experienced serious conflicts with it in the past. Moving to Central Europe also presented a risk, as I'd heard many negative stories about Russian passport holders having their accounts frozen, even if they'd lived and worked in these countries for a long time. It was important for me to find a country with a European culture that would provide stability and a comfortable life. Moving to South America or Asia might be an attractive option for many, but for me, such a relocation subconsciously feels like downshifting. This is because I believe such moves are often associated with a search for a more relaxed life and a break from the usual rhythm. It's important to understand that moving to another country can open up new horizons and opportunities, but it also requires careful preparation and an understanding of all the pros and cons. Yaroslav Kravtsov is an experienced game designer and CEO of Masterskaya 15. Under his leadership, the company develops innovative and engaging video games that attract players worldwide. Yaroslav is actively involved in the creation of game concepts, develops mechanics, and oversees product quality. His professional experience and creative approach contribute to the studio's growth and development in the competitive game development market. Yaroslav considered two main options for relocating his company: Montenegro and Cyprus. Montenegro has already established numerous Russian-speaking specialists, and business registration processes are well-established there. However, the country's economy and banking system are still in their infancy, which is a significant disadvantage. In contrast, Cyprus offers a more stable economic environment and a developed financial infrastructure. Previously, before the crisis, both IT companies and representatives of the gaming industry had opened branches in Cyprus, demonstrating the region's attractiveness for business. Yaroslav initially planned that the company's move to Cyprus would be an important stage in its future development, but circumstances forced him to make a decision quickly, leaving no time for long reflection.

When contacting a law firm for assistance with company registration and filing documents with the immigration service, moving to Cyprus turned out to be a significant financial undertaking. After completing all the bureaucratic procedures, Yaroslav opened an account in a Cypriot bank and began receiving his own salary.

The staff of "Masterskaya 15" work remotely, which raises pressing questions regarding payments to employees located in Russia. Fortunately, there are specialized companies such as 4DEV, Solar Staff, Deel, and EasyStaff that manage these processes. The mechanism for these services is simple: the manager transfers funds to the company account, which then makes payments to employees located in different countries. Each service offers unique terms and approaches to organizing payments. It is important that all financial transactions are confirmed by contracts, which ensures the legality and transparency of the process.

Conclusion. For most solo developers and freelancers, the question of choosing a location for relocation is not a major issue. However, for business owners, this task becomes more complex. They need to register a legal entity in another country and organize employee payments. Unforeseen difficulties arising in the new location may force them to reconsider their plans and change their relocation location.

• Relocating and registering a company in a new location will require significant investment. To be on the safe side, it's worth budgeting for specialized services that will help with migration, company registration, and opening a bank account. In many countries, immigration issues need to be resolved as quickly as possible to obtain a residence permit, as tourist visas are time-limited.

There is a significant difference in the quality of services provided. Some companies only offer assistance in collecting documents, leaving the client alone with the process. In such cases, responsibility for submitting and processing documents rests entirely with the individual. However, there are also companies that provide full client support at every stage, providing a Russian-speaking specialist who speaks the official language of the country. This approach significantly simplifies the process, eliminating long lines and difficulties finding the right authorities.

Yaroslav Kravtsov is a game designer and CEO of Masterskaya 15. With his experience and creative approach, the company creates unique gaming projects that capture players' attention. Yaroslav actively participates in the development of game concepts and mechanics, allowing Workshop 15 to maintain a leading position in the industry. Under his leadership, the team strives for innovation and quality, which contributes to the successful development and popularity of their products in the market. When planning a move to a European country, it is advisable to obtain a card from a bank that is not subject to sanctions in advance or seek assistance from colleagues abroad. Yaroslav found the personal debit cards he got while in Georgia very helpful. He was able to transfer money from Russia to them and use them to pay for household expenses. However, the game designer notes that, for unknown reasons, some transactions fail. Furthermore, withdrawing large amounts of cash from such cards is unprofitable due to the complex transfer process. For example, when Yaroslav transferred dollars from a Russian currency account, the Georgian bank converted them into the national currency, the lari, and then had to convert the amount into euros. Besides losing money during the conversion, the Cypriot ATM also charged a commission for cash withdrawals.

When the legal support company issued invoices for their services, a problem with payment arose: the company was not yet registered, there was no bank account, and all the savings remained in Russia. In this situation, a friend from Belgium, who already had a bank account, helped me. The proverb "Don't have a hundred rubles, have a hundred friends" is especially relevant in the context of moving. It is important to have support in difficult times, especially when dealing with financial issues in a new country.

Yaroslav Kravtsov is a game designer and CEO of the company "Masterskaya 15". With his experience in game development and project management, he makes a significant contribution to the video game industry. Under his leadership, the company has achieved success in creating unique game projects that capture the attention of players and critics. Yaroslav actively monitors trends in game design and implements innovative ideas, which allows Workshop 15 to remain at the forefront of game development.

• Regarding documents, it is important to request a certificate of no criminal record in advance. The service is provided within 30 days, and this process cannot be expedited. This certificate is required when applying for a work visa and opening a company.
• Find out if the desired relocation country has special programs for IT and what their requirements are.

Cyprus has relocation programs for IT specialists, which is an important aspect for professionals in this field. As the owner of a company engaged in game development and media art creation, I also fall into the category of IT specialists. This allows me to take advantage of the benefits Cyprus offers, including favorable conditions for doing business and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Relocation to Cyprus opens new horizons for career development in the IT sector.

There are certain restrictions for third-country nationals. First of all, you must indicate a salary of €2,500 or more and pay taxes on it. Additionally, proof of IT qualifications is required. A physics degree will not be accepted, and the sole proprietorship through which orders were placed will also not be considered sufficient grounds. In such cases, it is recommended to contact companies specializing in relocation assistance. This is an argument in favor of using local services rather than resolving issues on your own or turning to Russian intermediaries.

Yaroslav Kravtsov is a game designer and CEO of Workshop 15. With his experience in video game development and project management, he makes a significant contribution to the industry. Under his leadership, Workshop 15 creates unique gaming products that attract the attention of players and critics. Kravtsov is actively involved in the development process, ensuring high quality and innovation in each project. His vision and passion for games make the company one of the leaders in the field of game design.

• Consider options for obtaining a "digital nomad" visa - this is a special program for foreigners who want to move to another country and work remotely.
• If you want to open an office in a new location, you need to think about organizing workstations for employees in advance, especially if it is not possible to transfer desktop computers. Acquiring new hardware can sometimes be difficult: firstly, there may be problems with the supply of powerful computers at the relocation point; secondly, the equipment can quickly be snapped up by other arriving specialists.

Results

Relocation stories in game development are varied and unique. Despite common features, each experience is individual and full of its own peculiarities. By studying numerous examples and creating a detailed checklist, you can prepare for a move, but it's still impossible to foresee every nuance. This shouldn't stop you from preparing, as thorough preparation can significantly ease adaptation and increase your chances of successfully integrating into a new environment.

The decision to move to another country should be made with a clear mind, based on personal and professional needs, and not under the influence of industry colleagues or under stress. It's important to ask yourself about your future career development, for example, in five years, and evaluate whether current circumstances could slow or completely halt your progress. This approach will help you make a more informed and informed decision about relocation that aligns with your long-term goals.

If relocation is unavoidable, it's important to mentally prepare yourself for the fact that the adaptation period in a new country can be a source of significant stress. This process can be made easier by making new acquaintances, maintaining contact with loved ones, and pursuing favorite, familiar activities. Negative emotions will disappear over time, and a new stage in life will begin, one you have consciously chosen. Support and integration into a new environment will help ease adaptation and make this transition more comfortable.