Chip&Vera

Now that one can reside in Russia using a 3 year multi-entry visa, the "proof of legal residence" rules have changed. You do not need to show a residency permit or work contract as is still stated on the government website. This was confirmed by email to USCIS Moscow (see above) and by the fact that my I-130 DCF application was accepted by them with no argument whatsoever.
 
What I used to prove legal residence:
* An apartment lease (translated) with my name on it.
* Russian address registrations for the past 2 years (you only need 6 months).
* An affidavit from a Russian friend attesting to my living here. (probably not needed)
* Passport stamps which verify my travels. 
 
Further info on DCF in Moscow. The clerk who reviewed my package was extremely helpful and patient and had me correct several items, using white-out. She then took it to the officer on duty and came back with the official acceptance of my DCF. And the surprise of the day, since my wife was there with me, they conducted our interview immediately. To top off the good fortune, I had my reply in email in 2 days -- APPROVED. 
 

Seems the 3 year visa is OK if supported by other evidence. Here is the answer I finally got.
 
Sent: Monday, February 06, 2017 4:28 PM
To: DHS, Moscow
Subject: Re: FW: FW: DCF IR-1 Visa
 
It is very important to know what "legally reading" means. Does is require "permanent residence" documents from Russia. This is a much different status than tourist visa. 
 
I have a 3 year tourist visa and I can prove I am living in Russia. Is that OK?
---------------
Dear Sir,
We have to see more evidence when 3 year tourist visa, like apartment lease, Russian driving license etc.
 
Sincerely,
USCIS Moscow Field Office Public Liaison Unit
 
 
 

Seems the 3 year visa is OK if supported by other evidence. Here is the answer I finally got.
 
Sent: Monday, February 06, 2017 4:28 PM
To: DHS, Moscow
Subject: Re: FW: FW: DCF IR-1 Visa
 
It is very important to know what "legally reading" means. Does is require "permanent residence" documents from Russia. This is a much different status than tourist visa. 
 
I have a 3 year tourist visa and I can prove I am living in Russia. Is that OK?
---------------
Dear Sir,
We have to see more evidence when 3 year tourist visa, like apartment lease, Russian driving license etc.
 
Sincerely,
USCIS Moscow Field Office Public Liaison Unit