7-day rule in effect for work permit corrections

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Under a new rule, Russia has set a deadline of seven working days for employers to file for corrections to work permits when foreign employees’ names or passport information have changed.

What does the change mean? The new rule adds urgency when employers must file a correction to a work permit; late filing will constitute an administrative violation subject to fines.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate.
• Visas/permits affected: Standard work permits, highly qualified specialist work permits and patents.
• Who is affected: Foreign employees and highly qualified specialists.
• Impact on processing times: The change does not affect processing times, but it does affect the deadline for filing.
• Business impact: Employers and their foreign employees have a new deadline that did not exist before.
• Next steps: Foreign employees who require a correction to their work permit should apply as soon as possible.

Background: The rule applies to foreign workers whose name has changed or whose passport information that appears on their work permit (passport number, name) has changed. Previously, the law did not impose a deadline to file for work permit corrections. Under the new rule, those who fail to file within seven working days will have an administrative violation on their record and will be subject to a fine of 4,000 to 5,000 rubles (about US$70 to $90).

The rule officially took effect June 30. Employers who have not yet filed for corrections should do so without delay.

BAL Analysis: Foreign employees should review their work permits and patents and file for corrections if they are required. BAL can assist in the process.

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

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