Russian government tightens rules for obtaining citizenship and residency permits

The Russian government has approved a bill tightening the rules for obtaining citizenship, temporary residence permits, and permanent residency permits. Under the initiative, foreigners with an unexpunged or outstanding criminal record for any offense will be denied these documents.

Currently, restrictions apply only to individuals convicted of intentional crimes, and for temporary and permanent residency permits, only to those convicted of serious and especially serious offenses. The new framework requires that foreigners provide a criminal record certificate when submitting applications. Exceptions will be made for children under 14 and Ukrainian nationals. An additional requirement is being introduced for labor migrants, the submission of documents confirming their education, qualifications, and employment history in Russia.

If passed, the law will take effect 180 days after official publication. Applications submitted before that deadline will be reviewed under the current rules.