IMPACT – LOW

What is the change? Those applying for visa extensions must hold a passport that is valid for six months beyond the requested visa extension end date.

What does the change mean? If passports expire in less than six months beyond the end date of the requested visa, the visa term will be shortened to comply with the rule.

  • Implementation timeframe: Immediate.
  • Visas/permits affected: All visas.
  • Who is affected: All foreign nationals applying for visa extensions.
  • Impact on processing times: None.

Background: The Federal Migration Service recently added this rule to visa extensions. Foreign nationals are already required to have passports that are valid for six months beyond an initial visa’s expiration date. The new rule means that passports must now also be valid for six months beyond the requested extension end date. Russia has recently imposed a barrage of stricter rules regarding foreign visas.

BAL Analysis: Employers and assignees should make sure passports are updated accordingly before extending their visas.

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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