Regions expand migrant work bans for 2027 as Duma cites Yugra

From 2027, Saratov Region will bar migrants holding work patents from jobs in energy, water supply and freight transport. The State Duma proposed that all regions follow the example of Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug, where foreign nationals lost several social benefits.

Saratov Region has expanded the list of sectors in which migrants working under patents will be barred from employment starting in 2027. The new restrictions cover the supply of electricity, gas and steam, air conditioning, water intake, treatment and distribution, wastewater collection and treatment, as well as road freight transport.

Existing bans will remain in place. Migrants may not work as couriers, in the food and beverage sector, in passenger transport on urban and suburban routes or in taxis, or in education, healthcare and social services.

“The Yugra model”

An LDPR deputy speaker of the State Duma proposed that other regions follow the example of Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug in restricting social payments and benefits for migrants. The current social support system, she said, makes moving to Russia attractive not only for workers but also for their families.

Здание Государственной думы в Москве (архив)

In Yugra, foreign nationals previously lost the right to a one-time childbirth benefit and monthly child benefits. The conditions for free school meals for migrant children were revised, and compensation for part of the parental fee for kindergarten was abolished. From January 1, 2027, the okrug will also expand the list of sectors in which migrants are barred from working under patents.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0, CC BY 4.0; archive)