Who can legalize their status under the new rules?
The simplified procedure applies to:
- Citizens of Moldova who have not regulated their status under Decree No. 1126 of December 30, 2024
- Those who left Russia after July 25, 2025
- Those entering Russia fr om October 1, 2025 (including transit through third countries)
Legalization conditions:
Must apply to migration authorities before January 1, 2026
Available options:
✓ Extension of temporary stay
✓ Temporary residence permit
✓ Permanent residence permit
Work in Russia without a patent
From October 1, 2025 to October 1, 2026, preferential employment conditions apply:
- Citizens of Moldova may work in Russia without a patent until October 1, 2026, provided they:
- Undergo mandatory fingerprint registration
- Complete a medical examination
- Enter Russia between October 1, 2025 and January 1, 2026
After October 1, 2026, these citizens may apply for a patent under simplified rules:
- Submission of an application without leaving Russia
- Waiver of processing time requirements
- No consideration of the purpose of visit to Russia
What restrictions does the decree lift?
The decree cancels previously imposed measures against Moldovan citizens, including:
- Deportation orders
- Administrative expulsion rulings
- Entry bans to Russia
- Decisions to shorten the permitted stay
Additionally, such measures will not be applied to these citizens until January 1, 2026, inclusive.
Important! The benefits do not apply to individuals:
- With outstanding criminal records
- Who have committed crimes in Russia
The new rules aim to create favorable conditions for the legal stay and employment of Moldovan citizens in Russia, as well as to simplify migration registration.
Up-to-date information for 2025: The validity period of the decree's provisions, required documents, and contacts of authorized agencies can be found on the official website of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Frequently asked questions
1. What are the new rules for Moldovan citizens in Russia in 2025?
Answer: Starting October 1, 2025, Moldovans can legalize their status without leaving, work without a patent until 2026, and overturn previous deportation orders.
2. Do Moldovan citizens need a work patent in 2025?
Answer: Until October 1, 2026, they may work without a patent if they undergo fingerprinting and a medical exam.
3. How can a Moldovan citizen avoid deportation in Russia?
Answer: Decree No. 520 overturns previous deportation orders, except for those with criminal records.
4. What is the deadline for Moldovans to legalize their status in Russia?
Answer: Applications must be submitted by January 1, 2026.
5. Can a patent be obtained without leaving Russia?
Answer: Yes, applications can be submitted to the Ministry of Internal Affairs without departure until October 1, 2026.
6. What documents are required for legalization?
Answer: Fingerprinting, medical examination, and an application to the Ministry of Internal Affairs are required.
7. Does the decree apply to Moldovan citizens with criminal records?
Answer: No, restrictions remain in force for them.
8. Is entry to Russia allowed via third countries?
Answer: Yes, entry is permitted both directly and through other states.
9. What medical certificates are required for work?
Answer: Standard migrant medical examination (tests, chest X-ray).
10. Wh ere can I find the full text of Decree No. 520?
Answer: On the official legal information portal.
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For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
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