From February 10, 2026, a new order from the Minister of Defense comes into force, tightening the medical requirements for entering military service under contract. The document defines an exhaustive list of diseases that are an absolute contraindication for concluding a contract with citizens deemed partially fit, during mobilization, under martial law, or in wartime.
Expanded list of illnesses
The key change is a significant expansion of the list. Previously containing 26 items, it now has 35. The list now includes such illnesses as diabetes mellitus, consequences of severe injuries to the aorta and major blood vessels, as well as long-term consequences of complex fractures of the spine and long bones.
Significance for migration procedures
The list approved by Russia's Ministry of Defense is significant not only for military service. It is used as a relevant criterion during military medical examinations conducted as part of obtaining Russian citizenship or a residence permit on several grounds.
We remind you that on November 5, 2025, Presidential Decree No. 821 was published (details in our news), according to which obtaining citizenship and a residence permit in Russia for men aged 18 to 65 from certain categories of foreign citizens now requires mandatory submission of documents about military service in the Russian Armed Forces, namely:
- A discharge document from military service in the Russian Armed Forces or the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations;
- A certificate confirming unfitness for military service.
It is important to note that confirmatory examinations must be conducted only at state medical institutions.
Frequently asked questions:
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When does the new Ministry of Defense order on illnesses for contract service come into force?
Order No. 850 of the Minister of Defense of Russia comes into force on February 10, 2026. -
Who is the new Ministry of Defense list of illnesses intended for?
For citizens (including foreigners and stateless persons) deemed partially fit for military service, who wish to conclude a contract during mobilization, under martial law, or in wartime. -
How many illnesses are now on the list for contract refusal?
The list has been significantly expanded and now contains 35 illnesses (previously there were 26). -
What new illnesses were added to the Ministry of Defense list?
The list now includes, in particular, diabetes mellitus, consequences of injuries to the aorta and major blood vessels, and consequences of severe fractures of the spine and limbs. -
Does this list affect obtaining Russian citizenship?
Yes. This list is used by military medical commissions when conducting examinations for obtaining Russian citizenship or a residence permit on certain grounds (e.g., based on family ties with children or parents).
For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
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