Translated with AI
The Russian government may launch an experiment in organized, targeted recruitment of foreign workers starting in 2027, Kommersant reports, citing the Ministry of Internal Affairs' draft plan for implementing the migration concept.
By May 1, 2026, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Labor must submit to the government a bill that will formalize a new division of powers in the area of external labor migration. By the end of that year, the Ministry of Internal Affairs plans to organize training and retraining for employees dealing with migration issues, as well as establish cooperation with universities and colleges that train such specialists.
The project envisages a registry-based recruitment model. Foreign workers will undergo preliminary screening in their home countries and travel to Russia to work for specific employers, rather than seeking employment after obtaining permits within the country. According to Ministry of Internal Affairs representatives, the agency may transition a significant portion of migrant workers to this system.
By May 1, 2026, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Labor, the Federal Security Service, and the Federal Tax Service must submit a draft federal law outlining the principles of organized recruitment. By December 1, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, together with the Ministry of Digital Development, plans to launch an information system and a mobile app for program participants. By July 1, the agencies will also develop a methodology for surveying employers to assess the economy's need for foreign labor. Together with the Ministry of Economy, they will create a mechanism for identifying industries that prioritize migrant recruitment.
Experts fear that such a rigid link will deprive small and medium-sized businesses of flexibility in hiring personnel.
Earlier, the organizers of a scheme to legalize over 3,000 migrants were arrested in St. Petersburg. The CEO of several companies and his accomplice sold fictitious hostel registrations for 5,000-7,000 rubles, while work permits cost up to 34,000 rubles. A criminal case has been opened, and stamps and forged documents were seized from the suspects.
