Starting September 2025, all visa-free foreign nationals in Moscow and Moscow Region must:
- install an official migration tracking app with geolocation;
- register biometric data;
- allow real-time location monitoring.
The new system applies to both:
1) New arrivals entering Russia
2) Existing migrant workers in the region
1. Who Must Comply?
Covered individuals:
All visa-free foreign workers entering Russia
Exemptions apply to:
- Citizens of Belarus
- Minors (under 18 years)
- Diplomats and international organization staff (including family members)
2. System Requirements
Migrants must complete these steps:
- Register at Moscow's Migration Center (GBU "Migration Center")
- Download and install the official tracking app
- Submit biometric data
- Enable continuous geolocation sharing
3. Deadlines & Obligations
- New arrivals: Register immediately upon entry
- Current migrants: 90-day registration window
- Address changes: Notify Interior Ministry (MVD) within 3 business days
4. Penalties for Non-Compliance
- First violation: Added to monitoring registry
- Repeat violation: Deportation
5. Additional Provisions
- Work permits: Single patent now valid across multiple Russian regions
- Trial period: System will operate until September 1, 2029
- Potential expansion: May extend nationwide if successful
FAQ: Digital Migration Tracking System
1. Who needs to register?
All visa-free foreign workers except Belarusians, minors, and diplomats.
2. Which app is required?
An official tracking app (exact name to be announced by MVD).
3. Are there registration fees?
Currently unspecified, but standard patent/renewal fees may apply.
4. Consequences for non-compliance?
First offense: Monitoring list
Second offense: Deportation
5. How long will testing last?
The pilot runs until September 2029 before possible national rollout.
6. Daily location verification needed?
No, but address changes require notification within 3 business days.
7. Multi-region work permits?
Yes - single patent now covers multiple regions.
8. Required application data?
Biometrics, passport details, and location tracking permission.
9. Effective date?
After presidential approval; testing begins September 1, 2025.
10. Existing migrants' deadline?
90 days from system launch to complete registration.
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.
