I have to comment on it. There is about 0 chance for a Russian to get a job offer, then do all EASA licenses/exams and then get a visa in E.U. I’d guess you have higher chance of becoming NASA astronaut.
As well, *he won’t get any gov benefits while waiting for visa. Don’t confuse with a refugee. Most likely the person wont even be allowed into the country, except for tourist visa duration.
Getting visa for US? Spend 10-30k$ with no guarantee of approval, do FAA exams, etc… yeah, for many people EK is the best choice.

Hello all,
Firstly, thanks to the contributors to this thread. It has been a valuable source of information.
I'd like to ask anyone(or knows of someone) who has successfully negotiated an extended period between getting a 'yes' letter and the joining date.
I meet the requirements, but due to circumstances, I can't start for at least another year. I'd like to get the ball rolling and try my luck. But as process times vary quite a bit, I don't want to be in a position where I am lucky enough to get a yes but can't start at their given date.

Any insights or advice is appreciated.

Ciao.