Has the number of migrants in Russia decreased?

The number of labor migrants heading to Russia from Central Asian countries has decreased.

Photo: Internet

A labor migrant from Tajikistan living in Moscow told Azda TV that there is currently a low number of labor migrants in migration centers for obtaining registration and work permits.

“Previously, there were so many migrants in the migration centers that the queue would not clear in a day or two. But today, only one out of dozens of document submission points is functioning, and this is due to the low flow of migrants,” said the Tajik migrant.

According to official data, since 2022, the number of people leaving Russia has exceeded the number of arrivals by 30%.

Tajik experts believe that the decrease in the number of labor migrants in Russia is related to several factors. They cite the winter period, as migrants from Central Asian countries usually return home during winter. Another factor is the situation in Ukraine, with young migrants leaving Russia for fear of mobilization.

Public activist and migration expert Farhod Odinaev explained to Azda TV the decrease in the number of labor migrants in Russia: “The main reason for the decrease in the number of migrants is primarily due to the onset of winter. Most migrants who come to Russia for seasonal work return home in winter.”

The expert noted that recent events in Russia amid the war with Ukraine have also influenced the situation. “Migrants are heeding the advice of their parents and relatives and are refraining from traveling to Russia, fearing that they will be sent to fight in Ukraine,” Odinaev said.

According to Odinaev, another reason for the decrease in the number of migrants is the economic condition of Russia, linked to the country’s invasion of Ukraine and sanctions from Western countries. He stated that economic sanctions have already impacted the Russian economy, leaving most migrants without work.