Russia has made sweeping changes to Federal Law No. 115-FZ, which determines the legal status of foreigners in the country. The new rules, which will come into force gradually from January 1, 2027, sharply increase salary thresholds for foreign workers and also tie residence permits to regular income.
The minimum monthly salary threshold required for foreigners with Highly Qualified Specialist (VKS) status is raised from the current level of about 250,000 rubles to 717,000 rubles. This amounts to nearly three times the current threshold. For healthcare workers, academic staff, scientists, IT specialists at accredited companies, and employees at Skolkovo and Sirius, the threshold is set at 358,500 rubles. The new salary amounts will be updated annually according to the average wage growth rate.
Residence permits tied to income
One of the most critical provisions of the amendments is tying residence permits to regular income. If there is no information about a foreigner's legal income, or if their monthly income falls below the minimum subsistence level in the region where they live, this will be grounds for revoking a patent, temporary residence permit (RVP), or permanent residence permit (VNJ). These provisions regarding revocation for insufficient income will enter into force on October 1, 2026.
Notification requirement for those working for individuals
Foreigners holding an RVP or VNJ who start working for individuals, excluding personal, domestic work, or entrepreneurship, will be required to notify the Interior Ministry (MVD) within 10 days of starting employment. The notification can be made in person or by registered mail with return receipt.
Exit required within 3 days if stay period is shortened
The new regulation also tightens the deadline for leaving the country if it is decided to shorten a foreigner's temporary stay period in Russia. Exit from Russia will be mandatory within 3 days from the date the decision enters into force. This rule will come into effect on March 1, 2027.
Implementation timeline
- October 1, 2026: Provisions regarding revocation of patent or work permit due to insufficient income.
- October 25, 2026: Certain norms regarding interagency electronic data exchange.
- January 1, 2027: General entry into force of the new law.
- March 1, 2027: Changes to VKS salary threshold and the rule on exit when temporary stay period is shortened.
These regulations constitute one of the most comprehensive steps in Russia's strict immigration policy in recent years. The changes, which will directly affect millions of foreign workers and the Turkish community living in the country, are expected to have significant effects on the labor market and workforce mobility.
