The Ministry of Digital Development has received a proposal from Russian IT firms urging developers to return home. Valentin Makarov, head of the NP association Russoft, told Kommersant that the group is ready to cover the relocation costs for those who left and also wants to streamline the process for recruiting foreign talent. This vision reflects a broader push to stabilize the domestic tech workforce while leveraging international expertise that already knows how to navigate complex markets.
With ongoing staff shortages and increasing interest in Russian specialists from friendly countries, there is talk that it may be prudent for the government to lower barriers for hiring remote foreign workers as well. Makarov notes that the central hurdle remains the length and complexity of obtaining a Russian work permit for non-citizens. Industry sources cited by Kommersant confirm that the issue is under discussion within the Ministry of Digital Development, signaling potential policy adjustments on the horizon.
Under current rules, foreigners who wish to work remotely in Russia are required to physically enter the country and complete the necessary paperwork. Oksana Pakhomova, HR director at Hi-Tech Group, observed that this process can take roughly two months. Additionally, there is a risk that a permit could be revoked if the foreign specialist has spent less than 180 days in Russia over a given period, creating uncertainty for companies planning longer-term projects.
The Ministry of Digital Development stated that the industry has already received substantial support and that the procedure for finding employment and obtaining a residence permit has been simplified. A department representative added that there has not yet been a call from the sector to further simplify remote work arrangements, indicating cautious progress rather than rapid reform.
Dmitry Parshin, director of the Artezio development center within the Lanit group, expressed skepticism about the practical impact of Russoft’s proposed measures, arguing that Russian firms may struggle to offer salaries competitive with global standards to attract foreign talent. This tension between local compensation levels and international expectations remains a key consideration for policy makers and industry leaders aiming to attract or retain skilled professionals.
There have been earlier forecasts suggesting that a wave of dismissed IT professionals might vanish from the market, a prediction echoed by various industry observers. The evolving dynamics of salaries, immigration rules, and corporate incentives continue to shape the landscape for tech workers connected to Russia and the broader regional economy, underscoring the need for balanced, transparent policies that support both domestic employers and international collaborators.