Russia to Allocate 235,000 Work Permits for Foreign Specialists in 2025
In a significant move to address labor shortages, Russia plans to allocate approximately 235,000 work permits for qualified foreign specialists in 2025. According to the Russian Ministry of Labor, the highest salary that migrants can expect is 380,000 rubles per month, particularly for high-level positions such as the Chairman of the Board of the Russian-German Chamber of Commerce. The Amur Region leads with the highest number of quotas, followed by the Moscow Region and Leningrad Region.
The decision to attract foreign labor is driven by a pressing need for skilled workers in various sectors, particularly in regions where local expertise is lacking. In 2024, the estimated need for foreign workers was significantly lower at 155,900, indicating a growing reliance on international talent to fill gaps in the workforce. The majority of these positions are expected to be filled by migrants from countries such as China, Turkey, Serbia, India, and Vietnam.
Focus on Skilled Labor and Language Proficiency
President Vladimir Putin has emphasized the importance of attracting not just any labor migrants, but those with specific qualifications and language skills. During the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, he highlighted the need for migrants to be well-versed in the Russian language, culture, and legal frameworks to ensure a smooth integration into society. This approach aims to foster a harmonious relationship between foreign workers and local citizens, minimizing potential conflicts in the labor market.
In addition to high-paying roles, there are also numerous vacancies offering lower salaries, with some positions, such as bakers and seamstresses, offering as little as 20,000 to 25,000 rubles per month. The Russian government is also implementing restrictions on foreign labor in certain sectors, including education and healthcare, to ensure that local citizens are prioritized in these fields.
