Changes in migration legislation in 2025

2025 will bring significant changes to the migration legislation of Russia, significantly changing the rules of stay for foreign citizens.

Reduction of the visa-free period

One of the most noticeable changes is a twofold reduction in the maximum period of visa-free stay of foreigners in Russia – to 90 days per year

Currently, this period is 90 days per six months.

This will significantly affect people coming to Russia for a short period, and will also require more careful planning of trips and will likely lead to an increase in the number of visa applications.

Implementation of the expulsion regime

The most significant innovation is the introduction of the expulsion regime (Federal Law of August 8, 2024 No. 260-FZ), which entered into force on February 5, 2025. This regime is aimed at foreign citizens and stateless persons who are illegally in the territory of the Russian Federation (for example, after the expiration of a temporary residence permit or a cancelled visa).

Being included in the register of controlled persons entails serious restrictions:

• Prohibition on entrepreneurial activity: Opening a business becomes impossible.

• Restrictions on acquiring property: The purchase of real estate and vehicles is prohibited.

• Prohibition on marriage: Marriage registration becomes unavailable.

• Restrictions on changing the place of residence: Moving is possible only with the permission of the migration authorities.

In addition, the expulsion regime implies enhanced state control: document verification, mandatory fingerprint registration, and, if necessary, placement in a special institution (up to 48 hours, and by court order – for a longer period).

Increased liability

A new law will come into force on February 5, 2025, providing for significant fines for providing illegal services to foreign citizens included in the register of controlled persons – up to half a million rubles. This is aimed at combating the illegal stay of foreigners in Russia.

The fine will be:

For citizens – from 2,000 to 5,000 rubles

For officials – from 35,000 to 50,000 rubles

For companies – from 400,000 to 500,000 rubles

New police powers

From February 5, 2025, the police will receive expanded powers to deport foreign citizens who violate migration laws. Previously, only the court had the right to do this. This strengthens the practical side of monitoring compliance with the new rules.

There are 10 days from the date of receipt to appeal the deportation order through the court. The signature on the order confirms the fact of its receipt.