City authorities have introduced restrictions on the employment of foreign citizens with work patents in the courier services sector to combat illegal employment
Governor of St. Petersburg Alexander Beglov has signed a
decree prohibiting foreign citizens from working as couriers on the basis of work patents.The new rules apply to the following types of activities:
- Courier delivery (OKVED 53.20.3)
- Cargo delivery by transport (OKVED 53.20.31)
- Food delivery (OKVED 53.20.32)
- Other courier services (OKVED 53.20.39)
- Taxi services and rental of passenger cars with a driver (OKVED 49.32)
Reasons for the ban:
- Combating illegal employment in the delivery sector.
- Creating new jobs for Russian citizens, including students.
- Increasing transparency and safety of services.
According to Smolny (the city administration), foreign couriers make up a small share of the market, so the ban will not disrupt service operations. Authorities had previously hesitated, but the final decision has now been made. In the Leningrad Region, similar restrictions have not yet been introduced.
Experts believe the new measures will help legalize the market and improve service quality.
The decree comes into force on August 22, 2025.
Employers have been given until November 8, 2025 to bring the number of foreign workers in taxi and passenger transport services in line with the decree, and until November 22, 2025 for courier and delivery services.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which types of delivery are subject to the ban?
Banned: courier services (OKVED 53.20.3), food delivery (53.20.32), transport delivery (53.20.31), taxi services (OKVED 49.32).
2. Why was the ban on foreign couriers introduced?
To combat illegal employment and create jobs for Russian citizens.
3. How will the ban affect food delivery?
According to the authorities, foreigners occupy a small share of the market, so services will not be affected.
4. Does the ban apply in the Leningrad Region?
No, currently it applies only in St. Petersburg.
5. What alternatives are available for migrants?
They can work in other sectors (construction, trade).
Photo source: ru.freepik.com
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