Joseph Isangura
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a new decree requiring undocumented migrants in Russia to either legalize their status or leave the country by April 30, 2025.
The move is part of the government’s broader strategy to address growing nationalist concerns and ongoing labor shortages across the country.
Under the new decree, migrants will have two options. They can apply to regularize their status by going through a process that includes health checks, language tests, and resolving any outstanding debts. The alternative is to enlist in the Russian military, which the government hopes will help address the country’s growing defense needs.
This decision comes at a time when Russia is experiencing a significant labor shortage, with many industries, including food service and transportation, relying heavily on undocumented workers. Migrants make up around 7% of the population, and a large number of them are employed in essential sectors that are struggling to find enough local workers. There are concerns that if too many migrants are forced to leave or decide to go, the labor gap could worsen.
At the same time, there has been a rise in nationalist sentiment, with some groups supporting the crackdown on illegal immigration. While these groups see the decree as a necessary step, others worry it could further fuel ethnic divisions and create tensions in an already complex social environment. Human rights advocates have raised alarms about the potential for abuse and discrimination, especially if the policy leads to targeting specific groups.
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For migrants, this new directive means tough decisions ahead. Many will now have to choose between navigating the complicated legalization process, joining the military, or leaving the country entirely. As the April deadline approaches, the government will have to carefully manage how the policy is enforced to avoid further disruptions to the economy or escalation of social tensions.
The coming months will reveal how Russia balances its need for stricter immigration controls with the practical challenges of maintaining economic stability and social cohesion. The outcome of this decree could have far-reaching effects, not only for the millions of migrants living in Russia but also for the country’s broader political and social landscape.
