Starting September 2025, foreign workers can use one work permit in both Moscow & Moscow Region or St. Petersburg & Leningrad Region. Learn about Russia's new migration rules for employers and workers. Get help with work permit applications
Major changes are coming to Russia's labor migration system. From September 1, 2025, foreign workers will be able to use a single work permit (patent) in two neighboring regions:
- Moscow + Moscow Region
- St. Petersburg + Leningrad Region
The Russian Ministry of Finance is preparing amendments to Federal Law No. 115 that will:
- Allow one patent to cover work in two adjacent regions
- Enable employers to hire workers with patents from neighboring regions
- Simplify the employment process for migrants
- Reduce bureaucratic hurdles
We're monitoring these changes closely and will provide updates as they develop.
Frequently asked questions
1. When do the new work permit rules take effect?
September 1, 2025, if the law is approved.
2. Which regions are included?
Moscow + Moscow Oblast and St. Petersburg + Leningrad Oblast.
3. Do I need a new permit if I move between these regions?
No, one patent will be valid for both regions.
4. Can I work in Moscow with a Moscow Oblast permit?
Yes, after the changes take effect.
5. What if my permit is from St. Petersburg but I work in Leningrad Oblast?
It will be valid in both locations starting September 2025.
6. Will the permit duration change?
No, it remains up to 1 year with possible extensions.
7. Do I need to notify authorities when working in the second region?
Awaiting official clarification from the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
8. Can employers hire workers with permits from neighboring regions?
Yes, this is specifically allowed in the amendments.
9. Will the permit cost more for two regions?
Current prices remain, but adjustments are possible.
10. What if the law isn't ready by September 2025?
Current rules will remain in effect until changes are implemented.
11. What documents are needed for a work permit?
Passport, migration card, arrival notification, health insurance, Russian language certificate.
12. Can I work in three regions with one permit?
No, only two neighboring regions (not Moscow + St. Petersburg).
13. How to check if my permit is valid in the second region?
Through the official Ministry of Internal Affairs website after implementation.
14. What if an employer rejects my permit because of the region?
After September 2025, this would be illegal - you can report to labor authorities.
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.
