A draft law has been submitted to the State Duma tightening the rules of stay in Russia for foreign citizens arriving without a visa. The main innovation is the proposal to reduce the maximum permitted period of stay in the country fr om the current 90 days to 30 days within one calendar year.
The calculation period is the calendar year from January 1 to December 31. This change, if adopted, would be the second reduction in a short time: in 2024, the lim it was reduced fr om 90 days within a 180-day period to 90 days within a year (more details in our news).
Who will be able to stay for a longer period?
Foreign citizens temporarily staying in Russia will be able to remain beyond the established period under the following conditions:
• Obtaining a patent for employment.
• Applying for a temporary residence permit (TRP) or a permanent residence permit (PRP).
• Enrollment in a full-time or part-time program at a Russian educational or scientific institution.
• Participation in the State Program for Assisting the Relocation of Compatriots or being a family member of such a participant.
Justification for tightening the rules
In the explanatory note to the drfat law, the authors indicate that the measure is aimed at increasing security levels and simplifying control over the movement of foreign citizens.
The key reason cited is the growth in migration flow, especially for employment purposes. Legislators point to an increase in the number of crimes committed by foreigners: in the first quarter of 2025, this figure increased by 15.3% year-on-year. The largest number of offenses were committed by citizens of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan.
According to the initiators, reducing the period of stay to 30 days in a calendar year will allow:
• More effective tracking of migrant movements.
• Encouraging visitors to legalize their status faster (obtain a patent, TRP) or leave the country.
• Reducing the risks of migrants being involved in illegal activities and criminal structures by reducing the "free" time of stay in Russia.
Thus, the proposed changes are part of a policy aimed at regulating migration processes and preventing offenses.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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How many days can citizens from visa-free countries currently enter Russia?
Currently (in 2025), citizens of visa-free countries can stay in Russia for up to 90 days within one calendar year. -
What does the new 2025 draft law on reducing the period of stay propose?
The draft law proposes to reduce the maximum period of visa-free stay from 90 to 30 calendar days per year. -
When will the new 30-day rules come into force?
For now, this is only a draft law submitted to the State Duma. It must be considered, adopted in three readings, approved by the Federation Council, signed by the president, and only then published. -
How to count the 30 days of permitted stay?
The proposal is to calculate within the framework of a calendar year - from January 1 to December 31. All days spent in Russia under visa-free arrangements will be summed up. -
What should I do if I exceed the 30-day lim it?
Exceeding the established period of stay is an administrative offense and entails a fine, deportation, and a ban on entry into Russia for several years. -
Who will be able to stay in Russia for more than 30 days a year?
Foreigners who have obtained a patent, TRP, PRP, enrolled in full-time studies, or are participating in the Compatriot Resettlement Program.
For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
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