Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree mandating that all illegal immigrants must either legalize their status or leave Russia by April 30, 2025. This directive comes as part of Russia’s ongoing efforts to regulate migration and address security concerns amidst its complex geopolitical landscape.
The decree targets migrants who entered or remained in Russia without proper documentation. It stipulates that those wishing to stay must comply with stringent new requirements aimed at curbing illegal residency. These include providing biometric data, passing drug and infection tests, demonstrating proficiency in Russian, and knowledge of the country’s history and laws.
This policy is seen as a response to broader issues of migration, especially from Central Asian countries, where many seek work and citizenship in Russia. The deadline also aligns with the enforcement of a new deportation law set to take effect on February 5, 2025, which could see non-compliant migrants deported unless they meet the legal prerequisites for residency.
