Do not fall into a trap of various myths about an international marriage. Some of these myths can discourage you and some of them are simply too naive to believe in.

       Myth #1. International marriage is only for young people.

       Age is a matter of taste in an online or real life relationship. Some men (as well as women) do prefer to choose a younger partner among foreigners. However, others feel more confident and secure with those of older age. Older, more experienced people deal better with cultural differences. But in general an international marriage can work out between partners of any age, as it depends on their personalities and compatibility.

       Myth #2. Marrying a Russian woman will make you happy.

       Yes, there are many cases in which men who marry Russian women are satisfied with their choice. However, any international marriage can be compared to a Russian roulette – you'll find out only after you pull the trigger. Russian women may be very family oriented, but cultural differences can cause deep offense and disappointment between two partners even when the offense is not intentional. In addition to that, a Russian woman will most likely not put up with anything she had to put up with in her own country – she expects something better from you.

       Myth #3. Marrying a foreigner is easy.

       If you think that marrying someone from a foreign country is easy, you don't know what you are getting yourself into. Here are the things you will have to deal with:

       Your partner's parents: Cultural differences may be not as noticeable between you and your partner, as they are noticeable between you and your partner's family who has not been exposed to a foreign culture in most cases.

       Documentation: Collecting all the required documents for a fiance(e) visa is a hustle. You will need to meet several conditions, have a good job, and have a lot of patience.

       Supporting your partner: Since the educational systems and careers in two different countries may be so different, it can be difficult for your partner to adopt to new changes fast. While your new wife/husband had a very important job somewhere in Russia, she/he may not be able to get one like that in your country. The education she/he has may also not be highly evaluated in your country. So it may take up to several years before your new partner gets proper education and a good job.

       Myth #4. It is impossible to marry a Russian woman/man who does not speak your language perfectly.

       As practice shows, basic knowledge of a foreign language is enough to start a relationship. It is even better if the woman (and the man) learns the language while the relationship is still forming, because it helps the couple communicate and bond more. In general women are more capable of learning a foreign language than men.