in some instances, the situation in a mandated refugee’s home country changes for the better, and the fear of persecution upon return is no longer an immediate or long term issue. nevertheless, the issuance of exit visas by the russian authorities remains an obstacle delaying the repatriation process. the unhcr helps the individual determine the best way to return home. with the aid of the unhcr, the russian authorities will offer a one time deportation visa (which takes less than one week), as opposed to the exit visa normally required of all individuals leaving russia (which could take several months).