New restrictions for migrants in Russia

Starting from the beginning of 2025, restrictions will come into effect on the employment of foreign citizens working under a patent in certain sectors.

By the decree of Governor Andrei Bocharov, restrictions have been introduced on the employment of foreign citizens working under a patent in certain sectors.

Now, according to the decree, the focus in this area will be on highly qualified foreign specialists who typically come to work on employer-sponsored applications and work visas, rather than under a patent.

“The decision was made to ensure balanced development of the regional labor market and to enhance the competitiveness of local job seekers,” the regional labor and employment committee explained in a statement.

Thus, according to the decree, in 2025, foreign citizens engaged in labor activities under a patent will not be able to work in areas such as education, healthcare, other land passenger transport activities, wholesale and retail trade, including the trade and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, food and beverage provision, courier activities, hunting, capturing and shooting of wild animals, including the provision of services in these areas.

It was previously reported that migrants may be prohibited from settling near educational institutions. Deputies of the State Duma of the Russian Federation from the LDPR faction proposed to relocate migrants further away from institutions for minors, particularly schools and kindergartens.

According to them, this will help protect children from potential attacks, and children will not witness the antisocial lifestyle that some newcomers may lead. Under the initiative, migrants will not only be required to live more than 200 meters away from schools and kindergartens but also will not be able to register in premises intended for children.

Chairman of the LDPR Leonid Slutsky believes that a group of migrants repairing preschool and school facilities also resides there. According to the deputy, this should not be the case, as such proximity is dangerous for children.

Some experts believe that these restrictions are occurring against the backdrop of the attack on the Crocus City Hall concert venue, in which citizens of Tajikistan are suspected of involvement. Following this incident, thousands of migrants in Russian cities and regions underwent mass checks and raids.

At the same time, some experts believe that due to the war in Ukraine, the Russian economy is in decline, and the authorities are trying to restrict the labor market for migrants.