The Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs has proposed exempting certain categories of foreign workers from the exam on the Russian language, the history of Russia, and the basics of Russian legislation.
However, this would not apply to all labor migrants. Let’s look at who could be affected by the proposed changes.
Who Could Be Exempt from the Exam?
The proposal concerns foreign citizens who obtain work permits for employment with companies that are residents of Advanced Development Territories (ADTs).
These are special areas where businesses operate under preferential conditions. They are located in different regions of Russia, including the Far East and the Arctic.
For example, there are currently 16 such territories in the Far East and two in the Arctic.
If the bill is adopted, these foreign workers will no longer be required to take the mandatory exam. When applying for a work permit, they would not need to confirm their knowledge of:
- the Russian language;
- the history of Russia;
- the basics of Russian legislation.
What About Other Migrants?
For most foreign citizens, the current requirements will remain unchanged.
In particular, this applies to citizens of Uzbekistan who come to Russia and obtain a work patent. As a general rule, they are still required to confirm their knowledge of the Russian language, Russian history, and the basics of Russian legislation.
The proposal from the Ministry of Internal Affairs applies specifically to certain foreign workers who obtain a work permit. It does not provide for an automatic cancellation of the exam for all work patent holders.
Therefore, those who still need to take the exam should not postpone learning Russian. You can start with the free course in the SalamPay app. It includes 15 video lessons in Uzbek and homework assignments that will help you gradually learn the basics of the language.
Why Are These Changes Being Proposed?
According to the authors of the initiative, removing the exam requirement would help companies attract foreign specialists. It is also expected to support the development of businesses operating in Advanced Development Territories.
Similar exemptions already exist for certain categories of foreign workers.
When Will the Changes Take Effect?
For now, the document is still at the bill stage.
This means the new rules are not yet in force. A corresponding federal law must first be adopted.
Therefore, foreign citizens who are currently applying for a work patent or work permit should continue to follow the existing requirements.
