The proposed law regarding residence permits for foreigners who faced persecution for supporting the Russian Federation aims to assist participants in the special operation and Russians living in the Baltic states, among others. A co-author of the bill, a deputy of the State Duma, stated this in an interview with socialbites.ca. He explained that Russia should prepare a list of criminal offenses and articles that would enable a foreign citizen to apply for a residence permit within the country.
He emphasized that the country would maintain its principled stance. In the Baltic states, a pro-Russian position is sometimes framed as an endorsement of a totalitarian regime. There are also references to mercenary service connected to the Northern Military District on the Russian side. The deputy expressed hope that the bill would pass and that the executive branch would establish a clear procedure and a defined list of criminal articles and offenses that would grant a foreign citizen the right to obtain residence in Russia. He added that an individual could also prove in court that they faced persecution, especially due to a pro-Russian stance. He asserted his intention to support ethnic Russians who feel oppressed, arguing that bureaucracy should serve the people, not hinder them. He also suggested that if state administration learns to protect citizens abroad, it will show greater consideration for ordinary Russians at home, regardless of nationality.
On December 19, a bill proposing residence permits in the Russian Federation for foreigners under criminal prosecution for expressing a pro-Russia attitude was submitted to the State Duma. The document has been registered in the State Duma database.
The proposal would expand the access to residence permits in Russia without the need for a temporary residence permit. Specifically, it targets foreign nationals who are subject to criminal prosecution in their own countries for public statements or expressions in support of the Russian Federation, its policies, or the peoples living within Russian territory. The bill notes movements that advocate such positions.
Information from open sources is cited in the explanatory note to the bill, referencing cases where authorities in various countries have pursued charges related to pro-Russia symbols and statements. For example, in early 2022, Germany recorded more than 140 such cases, largely tied to symbols associated with the special operation. By autumn 2023, the Czech Republic reported 384 criminal cases connected to supporting Russia’s position, and Latvia had initiated more than 40 cases at the start of 2023. These figures are presented to illustrate the international context surrounding the bill’s aims.
The text also touches on the broader issue of displaced individuals returning to Russia, noting shifts in population movements that have persisted alongside policy discussions about residency rights for those who advocate for Russia in foreign jurisdictions. [citation: explanatory notes accompanying the bill and State Duma registration records]”