IMPACT – MEDIUM

The Russian government will require fingerprinting, photographing and medical exams for foreign nationals intending to work or stay in Russia beginning Dec. 29.

Fingerprinting and photographing:

  • Beginning Dec. 29, foreign nationals intending to work in Russia or stay longer than 90 days will be required to undergo fingerprinting and photographing.
    • Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) nationals and standard work permit holders must be fingerprinted and photographed within 30 days of entering the country.
    • Foreign nationals who stay longer than 90 days must be fingerprinted and photographed within 90 days of entering the country.
    • Highly Qualified Specialists (HQS) visa holders must be fingerprinted and photographed when they receive their work permit.
    • Work patent holders must be fingerprinted and photographed upon filing an application for the patent.

Medical examinations:

  • Beginning Dec. 29, foreign nationals must undergo a medical examination at an approved Russian medical institution if they intend to work or stay longer than 90 days.
    • Foreign nationals entering for work must have the exam completed within 30 days of entering the country.
    • Foreign nationals staying in Russia longer than 90 days for non-work related reasons must have the exam completed within 90 days of entering the country.
  • Certificates will be issued to foreign nationals if they pass the medical exam. Medical check-ups will be required within 30 days after the certificate’s expiration date.

Additional Information: Dependents who intend to stay in Russia longer than 90 continuous days will be subject to the new law. The law exempts citizens of Belarus, children under six, and employees and family members of intergovernmental organizations or foreign diplomatic missions (subject to reciprocity). If fingerprinting, photographing or medical examinations are not performed, officials will reduce the amount of time foreign nationals can stay in the country.

BAL Analysis: The new law complicates the work and immigration process for foreign nationals by requiring in-person procedural steps. Once the law is in effect, foreign nationals will need to satisfy the requirements in order to remain in Russia without penalty.

This alert has been provided by Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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