On April 1, 2025, the Russian State Duma proposed amendments to the Administrative Code, strengthening checks on migrants' marital status during deportation proceedings.
The new bill targets fake marriages used to avoid deportation. Courts will no longer accept just a marriage certificate—additional proof will be required, including:
- Proof of cohabitation (lease agreements, utility bills)
- Evidence of shared household (joint purchases, family photos)
- Duration of the marriage (longer marriages face less scrutiny)
This change closes a legal loophole that allowed migrants to exploit sham marriages for residency permits.
Key Takeaway: Since October 26, 2024, the minimum marriage duration for simplified temporary residency has increased.
Frequently asked questions
1. What counts as a fake marriage with a foreigner?
A marriage registered solely for immigration benefits (e.g., avoiding deportation) without real family life.
2. How to prove a marriage is genuine?
Provide joint bills, photos, witness statements, and shared financial records.
3. What documents are checked in deportation cases?
Courts now require proof of cohabitation, shared expenses, and communication history.
4. Can marriage stop deportation?
Only if the marriage is proven real—fake marriages lead to fines and deportation.
5. What are the penalties for a fake marriage?
Fines, marriage annulment, and deportation may apply.
6. How do authorities verify a migrant’s marriage?
They check cohabitation proof, social media, and witness testimonies.
7. Does the 2025 law affect existing marriages?
Yes, all deportation cases will be re-evaluated under the new rules.
8. What changes were made to the Administrative Code in 2025?
Stricter checks on marital status in deportation cases.
9. Can a marriage be annulled for being fake?
Yes, if a court confirms it was for immigration fraud.
10. What’s the fine for a sham marriage?
Varies—possible deportation + financial penalties.
11. What if my real marriage is wrongly called fake?
File an appeal with additional evidence (photos, bills, testimonies).
Photo source: https://ru.123rf.com/
For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
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