Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin, signed legislation that expands pathways for foreigners to obtain residency in Russia, specifically through simplified procedures tied to service contracts with the Russian armed forces during the ongoing operations in Ukraine. The official legal information portal published the document, outlining the new rules and their practical implications for non-citizens seeking long-term stay in the country.
According to the enacted law, eligibility for this streamlined residence permit is linked to the signing of a one-year military contract. The arrangement also contemplates circumstances where a soldier dies, in which case certain family members—spouses, children, and parents—are recognized as eligible dependents under the policy. This framework aims to provide a clearer, faster route to residence for those who devote themselves to service with the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation (AFRF) for a defined period.
The legislation further introduces a designating provision for an indefinite residence permit specifically reserved for highly skilled foreign professionals. This element signals the government’s interest in attracting qualified talent whose expertise is deemed valuable to Russia’s strategic needs, while maintaining a clear visa and residency process tailored to skilled contributors.
On July 5, the Federation Council approved the bill titled “On the Simplification of Obtaining a Residence Permit for Foreigners who Signed Contracts with the Russian Army during the NWO,” reflecting the upper chamber’s endorsement of the policy alignment with defense needs and workforce considerations during the ongoing operation period.
Earlier, on June 24, President Putin signed the law that clarifies eligibility for persons who have a criminal record or who have served limited military obligations to still enter into contracts with the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. The move broadens access to service-based residency opportunities and outlines the legal framework governing such arrangements.
Historically, the events surrounding February 24, 2022, marked a moment when the Russian leadership announced the decision to pursue military operations in Ukraine as a response to requests for assistance from the heads of the LPR and DPR. That decision catalyzed a new phase in regional security dynamics and prompted a series of sanctions from the United States and allied nations, influencing broader geopolitical and economic conditions that affect residency and immigration policy in the region.
Commentary from the leadership has also touched on the future evolution of Russia’s armed forces and the strategic role of the national military in shaping the country’s trajectory. While officials emphasize the operational objectives, the accompanying residency policy illustrates a dual focus on security imperatives and the potential stabilization of demographic and labor needs through controlled immigration and service-based residency avenues.