Russian Immigration Law - New Developments

Over the past year, there have been numerous notable changes in the immigration laws of the Russian Federation that may assist employers in securing work visas for foreign employees. Asma Bashir, of specialist immigration firm Newland Chase, examines the issues.

Taking Moscow as an example, until July 2008 employers had to go through a lengthy process involving the acquisition of separate approvals from the Moscow Department of Federal Employment Service, the Federal Migration Service (FMS) and the Territorial Employment Service. However, new procedures implemented in July 2008 have streamlined the application process.

Under the current procedure, the local labour department must undertake a search for a qualified Russian to fill the position. If an able and qualified Russian cannot be found, the employer may proceed to apply for an official work visa invitation letter at the FMS. Once the letter is obtained, the foreign employee may apply for an appropriate work visa at a consulate.

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