The Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs has drafted a draft law that exempts labor migrants from mandatory exams when obtaining a work permit in companies resident in advanced special economic zones (ASEZ). The corresponding amendments are proposed to be introduced into the law on the legal status of foreign citizens in Russia.
According to the initiative, foreign workers applying for a work permit in ASEZ residents will be exempt from testing their knowledge of the Russian language, Russian history and fundamentals of Russian legislation. Currently, passing such exams is a mandatory condition for obtaining permitting documents when employed in non-quota positions.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs explained that the innovation is intended to create more favorable conditions for attracting investment into advanced special economic zones. Furthermore, according to the authors of the bill, simplifying the employment procedure for foreigners should ensure "accelerated socio-economic progress" of the ASEZ.
Thus, the ministry proposes to remove an administrative barrier for resident companies interested in attracting foreign specialists, and thereby stimulate business activity in regions with a special regime for conducting entrepreneurial activity.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Who is affected by the cancellation of the Russian language exam?
In this draft law - labor migrants who obtain a work permit in companies resident in ASEZ. Earlier, in 2025, the State Duma also cancelled the exam for migrants working under a government quota.
2. What exams are migrants usually required to take?
The comprehensive exam includes three modules: Russian language, Russian history and fundamentals of Russian legislation. This requirement applies to obtaining a patent, work permit (non-quota position), temporary residence permit or permanent residence permit.
3. Why was it decided to cancel the exam specifically for ASEZ residents?
The goal is to create favorable investment conditions and ensure "accelerated socio-economic progress" of advanced special economic zones. Earlier, a similar measure for quota migrants was explained by the need to close the personnel shortage and reduce the bureaucratic burden.
4. Will other categories of migrants still need to take the exam?
Yes. To obtain a patent, temporary residence permit and permanent residence permit, testing remains mandatory. Moreover, since 2025 the testing rules have become stricter: publication of test tasks is prohibited, tests are updated monthly, and testing can only be taken at accredited centers.
5. How will the procedure for obtaining a work permit for migrants in ASEZ change?
The draft law proposes exemption from exams when applying for a work permit. This should speed up the employment process for foreigners in resident companies.
6. When will the new law come into force?
The draft law has only been prepared by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. For it to come into force, it must be considered by the State Duma, approved by the Federation Council and signed by the President. Exact timelines have not yet been determined.
7. What is ASEZ and what benefits do its residents have?
ASEZ (advanced special economic zone) is an area with a special legal regime for investors. Residents receive tax benefits, administrative preferences and simplified procedures.
8. Will migrants in ASEZ be able to obtain a permanent residence permit without an exam?
The current daft law only concerns work permits. Separate rules apply for permanent residence permits and temporary residence permits. For example, starting from 2026, highly qualified specialists recognized as "of interest to Russia" will be able to obtain a temporary residence permit without exams, but this concerns a different category of foreigners.
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