Fr om September 1, 2025, the "Amina" app becomes mandatory for migrants in Moscow and the Moscow region. This new digital service for migration registration is intended for foreign citizens arriving in Russia under visa-free regimes for employment.
Mandatory "Amina" app for migration registration
The pilot project for using the app is being launched in accordance with federal legislation. The "Amina" mobile app for migrants will allow foreign citizens to remotely notify the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) of their place of stay and promptly report any changes. Mandatory installation of the app will apply to all labor migrants working in the capital region.
Key functions of the "Amina" app for foreigners:
- Remote submission of notifications about the place of stay to the internal affairs authorities;
- Automatic transmission of geolocation data to the Russian MVD to enhance control and security;
- Simplified migration registration for the foreign citizens themselves.
The introduction of the app for migration registration aims to improve control over compliance with migration legislation and prevent offenses.
Who must use the app?
- From September 1, 2025: Foreign citizens who arrived in Russia for employment purposes under a visa-free regime and have the right to work in Russia on the basis of a patent/without a work permit or patent in accordance with federal law or international treaties of Russia;
- From September 1, 2026: Foreign citizens who arrived under a visa-free regime for a period exceeding 90 days for purposes not related to work (study, tourism, private visit).
Who is exempt from the mandatory installation of the "Amina" app?
The new migration registration procedure does not apply to the following categories:
- Minors (under 18 years old).
- Citizens of the Republic of Belarus.
- Diplomatic staff and their family members.
- Officials of international organizations and their families.
Where to download the "Amina" app?
The official "Amina" app can already be installed from the Russian app store RuStore. This will allow users to familiarize themselves with its functionality in advance and simplify future migration registration.
Confidence Group has encountered a number of unresolved issues in the legislation. We have sent official requests for clarification and await law enforcement practice on these matters.
Questions and answers:
1: What is the "Amina" app?
"Amina" is a mandatory mobile app for the remote migration registration of foreign citizens in Moscow and the region. Through it, migrants transmit data on their place of stay and geolocation to the MVD.
2: For whom is the "Amina" app mandatory?
Mandatory for visa-free foreign citizens working in Moscow and the Moscow region from September 1, 2025. But there are exceptions. From September 1, 2026 - for visa-free foreigners staying in Russia for more than 90 days for purposes other than work (study, guest visit).
3: Who is exempt from using the "Amina" app?
Minors, citizens of Belarus, diplomats, and employees of international organizations with their families are exempt from the obligation to use the app.
4: What happens if I don't install the "Amina" app?
Failure to comply with migration registration requirements may lead to administrative liability (fines of up to 7,000 rubles in Moscow and St. Petersburg under Article 18.8 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation) followed by deportation.
5: What data does the "Amina" app transmit?
The app transmits notifications about the place of stay (and its changes), as well as device geolocation data to the Russian MVD to ensure security and control.
6: Wh ere can I download the "Amina" app?
The official "Amina" app can be downloaded for free fr om the Russian app store RuStore.
7: Is there a fee for the "Amina" app?
No, the "Amina" app is completely free for users.
8: When does the "Amina" app become operational?
Mandatory use for labor migrants begins on September 1, 2025. But it can be installed and explored now.
9: Is the "Amina" app required for visa-based foreigners?
No, under the current pilot project, the app is intended only for foreign citizens arriving in Russia under visa-free regimes.
10: Wh ere to seek help with the "Amina" app?
For clarifications, you can contact the multifunctional migration center (MMC) in Sakharovo or the official MVD hotlines for migration issues.
Photo source: https://ru.freepik.com/
For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
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