February 4, 2025 — A bill proposing a 1-year maximum duration for employment contracts with foreign nationals was submitted to the Russian State Duma.
Key Changes Under the 2025 Bill:
1. Contract Duration: Foreign workers can only be hired under fixed-term contracts (max 1 year). Currently, contracts may be open-ended or fixed-term.
2. Purpose: The government aims to reduce illegal migration and prioritize job opportunities for Russian citizens.
3. Exception: Highly Qualified Specialists (HQS) are exempt and may sign longer-term contracts.
4. New HQS Requirements: Contracts must include details of private health insurance or employer-paid medical services.
5. Effective Date: March 1, 2025.
Why the Changes?
- The 1-year limit is deemed sufficient for most foreign workers’ tasks.
- Stricter rules target illegal employment while streamlining legal workforce management.
Next Steps for Employers:
- Review existing contracts with foreign employees.
- Ensure compliance with medical insurance requirements for HQS.
- Prepare for increased administrative workload in 2025.
We are monitoring the bill’s progress and will update you on further developments.
Frequently asked questions
1. What’s the max contract duration for foreign workers in 2025?
1 year (except for Highly Qualified Specialists, or HQS).
2. When do the new rules take effect?
March 1, 2025.
3. Are there exceptions to the 1-year limit?
Yes, HQS can sign longer-term contracts.
4. Do existing contracts need re-signing?
Yes, all active contracts must comply with the new rules by March 2025.
5. What documents are required for hiring?
Passport, work permit/patent, and medical insurance (for HQS).
6. How to renew a contract after 1 year?
By drafting a new contract (max 1 year again).
7. Medical insurance requirements for HQS?
Details of private insurance or employer-paid medical services must be included in the contract.
8. Can a foreign worker be fired early?
Yes, under standard Labor Code terms.
9. Penalties for non-compliance?
Fines are expected but not yet specified in the bill.
10. Impact on employers?
Higher administrative costs for HR and compliance.
11. Do work patents need renewal?
Patents are separate but must align with the contract’s 1-year limit.
12. What documents do labor inspectors check?
Contract, medical insurance (HQS), and work permits.
13. Can contracts be shorter than 1 year?
Yes, any duration under 1 year is allowed.
14. How will this affect migrant workers?
Reduced job stability; potential labor shortage in some sectors.
15. Where to get updates?
Official websites of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ministry of Labor, and migration services.
Photo source: https://ru.123rf.com/
For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
* The texts of the newsletters are intellectual property of Confidence Group, protected by the copyright laws of Russia. The information may not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without linking to this web site or to pages of this website.
