On April 24, 2025, the Russian State Duma introduced a bill to significantly increase fines for illegal employment of foreign workers. The proposed amendments to Article 18.15 of the Administrative Code aim to combat shadow employment and protect the legal labor market.
Key Changes:
- Fines for individuals will increase 10x
- Fines for officials will increase 5x
- Fines for companies will double (up to 1.6 million rubles) with possible 90-day business suspension
The bill's authors note that current fines (established in 2016) don't account for 60% inflation over nine years or increased migrant wages.
Employer Action Plan:
- Obtain proper work permits/patents
- Submit timely notifications to Main Directorate for Migration (GUVM MVD)
- Verify employees' migration status regularly
New penalties will take effect immediately upon publication.
Frequently asked questions
1. What are the fines for illegal migrant labor in 2025?
Fines will increase 2-10x (up to 1.6M rubles for companies).
2. How to legally hire foreign workers?
Require work patents/permits and file GUVM MVD notifications.
3. What documents are needed to employ migrants?
Passport, migration card, work permit/patent, health insurance.
4. How to avoid migrant employment fines?
Track document expiration dates and submit notifications on time.
5. What if a migrant is working illegally?
Immediately legalize or terminate employment.
6. What inspections should employers expect in 2025?
Increased raids by GUVM MVD and labor inspectors.
7. Can fines for illegal workers be reduced?
Yes, through court with mitigating circumstances.
8. What's changing in Russia's 2025 migration laws?
Higher fines, stricter checks, new employer requirements.
9. Do I need a lawyer to hire migrants?
Yes, to prevent costly mistakes and penalties.
10. How to verify migrant documents?
Through GUVM MVD website or immigration lawyer.
11. Which Russian regions have strictest migrant rules?
Moscow, St. Petersburg, high-migration areas.
12. Will there be a 2025 migration amnesty?
Not currently planned, but possible exceptions.
Photo source: https://ru.123rf.com/
For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
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