More than half of firms that rely on migrant workers report they cannot hire enough foreign staff. This finding comes from surveys conducted by a major job portal in partnership with a national industrial association, and it underscores how critical immigrant labor remains for Russia’s economy. The data suggest that companies see immigrants as a vital, though increasingly constrained, resource in a tight labor market. The landscape continues to evolve as policymakers adjust rules and employers adapt to shifting conditions. [citation: industry surveys]
Immigrant workers are often among the last line of defense for filling gaps when the domestic labor pool falls short. In regions where vacancies outpace local applicants, foreign hires step in to keep production lines running and services available. The reliance on migrant labor reflects structural gaps, especially in skilled trades and technical fields, where the pool of qualified applicants can be small and unevenly distributed. [citation: industry surveys]
The survey indicates that about 53% of responding companies face shortages of labor resources sourced from abroad, while 46% feel the current level of immigrant hiring meets demand to some extent. This split highlights a market in which foreign workers remain essential for certain sectors, yet regulatory and linguistic barriers shape how easily they can be recruited. The figures point to ongoing tension between need and access, with policy and language requirements playing pivotal roles in hiring decisions. [citation: industry surveys]
The most frequently cited hurdle is the lack of necessary specialists. Employers report that applicants struggle with the Russian language tests that gate many positions, and they point to gaps in language proficiency as a barrier to qualification. At the same time, authorities have tightened the rules for foreign workers, and in some cases put outright restrictions or bans in place. These measures have a direct impact on hiring plans, especially for firms that depend on foreign expertise and hands-on skills. [citation: industry surveys]
Last year, the number of foreign labor migrants in the Russian labor market was around 3.5 million, a figure that marks almost a one million decline from 2019. Analysts note that the decline mirrors stricter controls, evolving visa regimes, and shifts in regional demand. The trend has consequences for various industries, influencing wage dynamics, training needs, and the pace at which firms can expand operations or replace retiring workers. [citation: industry surveys]
Economists have observed a drift in migrants’ preferences, with many showing greater interest in destinations such as South Korea and the United Kingdom rather than Russia. This shift reflects broader changes in job opportunities, living costs, and the perceived stability of certain markets. While Russia continues to attract talent in some sectors, the move away from Russia highlights how regional labor mobility can reshape local labor markets over time. [citation: industry surveys]
Earlier analyses pointed to the routes and regions that host the largest shares of labor migrants entering the country. Those patterns have persisted, even as policy and market conditions have fluctuated, creating uneven distribution across regions and sectors. For policymakers and employers, understanding these entry points helps in forecasting demand, planning training programs, and aligning recruitment strategies with national labor objectives. [citation: industry surveys]
In the current climate, businesses across industries—from manufacturing to hospitality—face pressures to adapt. Some respond by investing in language training for potential hires, while others streamline onboarding processes, seek faster visa processing, or partner with training programs to build locally oriented talent pipelines. Regional differences remain pronounced, with some areas experiencing stronger demand than others due to demographic trends, industrial composition, and local wage incentives. [citation: industry surveys]
Looking ahead, policymakers and employers are weighing options that strike a balance between filling critical vacancies and upholding national labor standards. Initiatives such as targeted skill programs, accelerated language support, and clearer pathways for work permits could ease access to needed talent while preserving safety and compliance. The migration picture remains fluid as reforms unfold and as market conditions shift with global developments, regional needs, and sector-specific dynamics. [citation: industry surveys]
Overall, migrants continue to play a meaningful role in Russia’s economy even as rules shift and recruitment strategies adapt. The evolving landscape requires ongoing monitoring, cross-border collaboration, and a willingness to align training and language initiatives with real-world labor needs. In this environment, the balance between protection of domestic workers and access to essential foreign expertise will continue to shape the country’s economic resilience and growth prospects. [citation: industry surveys]