In 2027, an experiment on the organized recruitment of foreign workers may start in Russia. The pilot project involves a shift fr om migrants searching for jobs independently to their targeted distribution based on employer requests. The preparation of the regulatory framework and infrastructure is entrusted to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia and should be completed in 2026.
This initiative is part of the implementation of the new Concept of State Migration Policy for 2026-2030 (more detail in our news). The document emphasizes attracting foreigners exclusively as temporary labor to cover the personnel shortage in the economy.
We have previously written about plans to introduce organized recruitment, and now the discussion of the project is returning to the agenda of relevant agencies.
According to the draft plan, the key stages of preparing the organized recruitment system are scheduled until the end of 2026: by May 1, the basic draft law should be developed; by July 1, a methodology for surveying employers to calculate the economy's needs and a mechanism for determining priority sectors; and by December 1, an information system and a mobile application for migrants should be launched. In parallel, the agencies will work on creating educational programs for both the labor migrants themselves and Russian employers.
How will the organized recruitment system work?
The Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs plans to implement a registry model. Future labor migrants will undergo necessary checks and processing in their countries of origin before being assigned to a specific Russian employer.
To implement the project, the following will be created within the structure of the Ministry of Internal Affairs by the end of 2026:
- A Migration Service Situation Center for operational management.
- A Center of Competence for Digital Transformation based on the "Passport and Visa Service."
Benefits and potential risks for business
For large companies with a constant need for personnel, the organized recruitment system could simplify and centralize the process of attracting foreign staff. However, some experts note that small and medium-sized businesses may face difficulties. The main risk is the loss of flexibility and dependence on the accuracy of the state's forecasts regarding labor needs, which do not always promptly reflect the real market situation.
Thus, the success of the experiment will depend on how smoothly the new bureaucratic system works and whether it can flexibly respond to the demands of the economy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What is organized recruitment of migrants?
Answer: Organized recruitment is a system wh ere foreign workers are attracted, vetted, and assigned to specific employers before their entry into Russia. -
When will organized recruitment of migrants start in Russia?
Answer: The pilot experiment on targeted recruitment may be launched in 2027, with preparations underway in 2026. -
Which agencies are responsible for organized recruitment?
Answer: The main operator starting from 2026 will be the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs. -
How is the new system better than a patent or work permit?
Answer: It is expected to reduce illegal employment, simplify procedures for employers, and guarantee a job for the migrant before arrival. -
How is the Ministry of Internal Affairs preparing to launch the system?
Answer: By the end of 2026, a Migration Service Situation Center and a Center of Digital Competence will be created, and personnel will be retrained.
For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
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