On February 18, 2025, Russian lawmakers introduced a bill establishing criminal liability for issuing fraudulent Russian language certificates to migrants. The proposed changes aim to combat corruption in migration testing centers.
Key Provisions of the Draft Law
1. Who Faces Liability
- Testing centers issuing certificates without proper exams.
- Middlemen organizing fraudulent testing.
- Officials covering up violations
2. Proposed Penalties
|
Violation |
Punishment |
|
Issuing fake certificates |
Up to 5 years imprisonment |
|
Testing procedure violations |
Fines up to 500,000 RUB |
|
Systematic violations |
Activity ban + prison term |
3. How to Verify Certificate Legitimacy
- Official seal from accredited center.
- Registration number in MVD system.
Recommendations for Migrants
- Take exams only at accredited testing centers.
- Request official payment receipts.
- Avoid middlemen offering "guaranteed" certificates
Timeline: Law may take effect in Q3-Q4 2025 after approval.
Frequently asked questions
1. When will the law take effect?
Expected in Q3-Q4 2025 after approval.
2. Who faces criminal charges?
Testing centers, examiners, and middlemen.
3. What counts as a fake certificate?
Issued without proper knowledge assessment.
4. Where to take legitimate exams?
At centers listed on Ministry of Education website.
5. What's the exam cost?
4,500-6,000 RUB depending on region.
6. Required documents for exam?
Passport with translation, migration card, payment receipt.
7. Can exams be retaken?
Yes, after 30 days if failed.
8. What to do if extorted?
Report to MVD via phone 102 or their website.
9. Will old certificates be reviewed?
Yes, random checks are possible.
10. How to spot scammers?
They offer certificates without exams in 1-2 days.
11. Needed for work permits?
Yes, mandatory since 2021.
Photo source: https://ru.123rf.com/
For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
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