The authorities have expanded the list of industries in which foreign citizens holding work patents cannot be employed. The new restrictions will also affect citizens of Uzbekistan.
Let’s look at which types of work are now prohibited and what those who are already employed in these industries should do.
Which Professions Are Now Prohibited?
Previously, St. Petersburg had already introduced restrictions on foreign citizens holding work patents who worked in taxi services and courier delivery.
Now the list has been expanded to include:
-Retail trade — working in shops.
- Beauty salons and hair salons.
- Physical fitness and wellness activities.
- Certain types of activities in the medical sector.
The restrictions apply to hiring foreign workers under work patents in the listed industries.
Who Will Be Affected by the Changes?
The new rules are particularly important for citizens of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and other countries whose nationals work in Russia on the basis of a work patent.
However, the ban does not apply to citizens of EAEU countries, such as Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Belarus.
The new restrictions also do not apply to foreign citizens working on the basis of a work permit.
When Will the Restrictions Take Effect?
A transition period has been established until December 15, 2026. During this time, companies must stop employing workers under work patents in the industries affected by the ban.
What Should You Do If You Already Work in One of These Industries?
If you work under a patent in a shop, beauty salon, or another affected industry, check with your employer whether the restrictions apply to your particular job.
If necessary, discuss switching to another permitted job in advance. At the same time, make sure to consider the region where your patent is valid and the profession specified in it, if applicable.
The main thing to remember is that the new rules do not mean that all migrants are prohibited from working in St. Petersburg. The restrictions apply only to certain types of activities and to foreign citizens working specifically under work patents.
