Verified: July 2026.
The military medical commission (VVK) is the last gate before signing a contract. Its job is to assign a fitness category and clear you for a specific position — no positive VVK conclusion, no contract. Below: exactly which doctors you see, which tests are mandatory, and how to prepare in a week.
How does the VVK work in 2026?
The commission is held at the Moscow recruitment point (8 Yauzskaya St.) or at an attached military clinic. Total duration: 1–3 days. Accommodation and meals are provided.
Which 7 doctors do I see?
| Doctor | What they check |
|---|---|
| Therapist | General condition, blood pressure, lungs, heart |
| Surgeon | Posture, joints, post-surgical scars |
| Neurologist | Reflexes, coordination, head injuries |
| Ophthalmologist | Visual acuity, colour vision, visual field |
| ENT | Hearing, eardrums, sinuses |
| Psychiatrist | Mental health, addictions |
| Dentist | Oral health, absence of acute infections |
An endocrinologist, cardiologist or dermatologist may be added by referral.
Which tests are mandatory?
- Complete blood and urine tests
- Blood biochemistry
- Blood type and Rh factor
- Resting ECG
- Chest X-ray
- HIV, hepatitis B/C and syphilis tests
- Drug test (in selected cases)
Some results can be brought pre-completed if fresh and from a licensed lab (see the FAQ above for validity windows).
What are the fitness categories?
| Category | Meaning | Contract |
|---|---|---|
| A | Fit | Any position, including special units |
| B | Fit with minor restrictions | Most positions |
| V | Limited fitness | Not accepted in peacetime (exceptions: specific specialties) |
| G | Temporarily unfit | Deferral of 6–12 months for treatment |
| D | Unfit | Rejection |
According to 2025 statistics, about 78% of foreign candidates receive category A or B.
What to bring — checklist
Documents:
- Passport plus notarised Russian translation
- Migration card
- Registration at place of stay
- Criminal record certificate from home country, with apostille
- Medical records or extracts (if you have chronic conditions)
- Chest X-ray from the past 12 months
- 4 photos 3×4 cm
Personal items:
- Sportswear and sneakers — for the physical fitness check
- Indoor shoes
- Towel
- Still water and a light snack — blood tests are on an empty stomach
- Pen and notebook
Full pre-contract documents list: Russian army recruitment requirements.
How to prepare in a week
- Sleep at least 3 nights in a row, 7–8 hours each.
- No alcohol and no energy drinks for 72 hours — they distort ECG and blood work.
- Do not overeat before blood tests — fasting 8–12 hours.
- Fix urgent dental issues in advance, otherwise the dentist blocks clearance.
- If you wear glasses — bring them and the prescription.
What if the category is disputed?
- Ask the VVK chairman for a re-examination.
- Undergo additional examination (inpatient, 5–10 days).
- If the decision is still negative — appeal to a higher-level VVK within 30 days.
- For chronic conditions — provide the medical history confirming remission.
Honest reasons candidates get rejected
- HIV, active TB, hepatitis B/C — automatic block.
- Serious cardiovascular or orthopedic conditions.
- Untreated psychiatric or addiction issues.
- Passport valid less than 6 months (document, not medical, block).
Passing 78% means 22% don't — going in prepared cuts most of that.
Related
Ready to book the medical exam?
Fill the form below — a coordinator will schedule your VVK appointment, arrange accommodation and walk you through the exact prep list for your case within one business day. No obligation.
