Decree shuffles immigration services

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? President Vladimir Putin has signed a presidential decree abolishing the current Federal Migration Service and shifting immigration services to the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The country will also reduce its staff handling immigration matters by roughly 30 percent.

What does the change mean? The change is organizational in nature and does not impact substantive immigration laws or regulations. The transition and the reduction in staff may cause some processing delays, however.

• Implementation time frame: The transition is expected to be completed by June 1.
• Visas/permits affected:All visas, permits and other immigration services.
• Who is affected:Anyone seeking immigration services in Russia.
• Impact on processing times: The transition and staff reduction may cause processing delays.
• Business impact: Businesses may need to adjust start dates and timelines in the event of significant delays.

Background: Putin signed the decree on April 5. It covered a number of issues, including immigration services. While visa, work permit, work patent and other immigration laws and regulations will not be substantively altered by the organizational reshuffling, delays are possible.

BAL Analysis:  BAL will follow the news in Russia and keep clients abreast of any significant developments, including any significant delays in services.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in the Russian Federation. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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