if the applicant is determined to be a legitimate refugee and is granted asylum by the fms, he will immediately be entitled to receive travel documents and a refugee id card. it is important to note, however, that the refugee status is only granted on a temporary basis. according to article 7.9, refugee status can be granted for up to three years, after which it must be extended on an annual basis. once declared a refugee by the russian authorities, the refugee can then apply for russian citizenship.