Interview with Olga Makeshina, head of the immigration department. Intermark Relocation is a relocational company founded in Russia in 1993. The company provides a full range of relocation services, which include service and adaptation for companies in Russia and around the world. All activities are carried out according to the standards of the EURA Global Quality Seal quality management certificate in the Russian Federation and the CIS. The experience and professionalism of the company has been repeatedly confirmed by international awards.
In connection with coronavirus, what are the restrictions on entry and paperwork for visiting the Russian Federation? Who do they apply to?
Normative acts are introduced by Ruling of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 153-p of 31.01.2020 and Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 66 of 31.01.2020. These restrictions are introduced on the territory of the Russian Federation in relation to Chinese nationals and their employers.
Can we find out in more detail what specific restrictions have already come into force?
MIA of Russia temporarily suspended acceptance of applications and issue of work visa invitation letters as well as corporate employment permits and work permits to Chinese nationals who are staying outside Russia. Russian Consulates in China temporarily suspended acceptance of applications and issue of work visas to Chinese nationals. Visa-free entry for tourist groups from China envisaged in the bilateral agreement between Russia and China dated 29 February 2000 is also temporary suspended. Additionally, according to the statement for the press released by the MFA of Russia (№ 144-30-01-2020), effective 30 January the Ministry suspended issue of e-visas to Chinese nationals for the purpose of visiting Russian Far East cities, Kaliningrad region, St.Petersburg and Leningrad region.
What measures can be introduced by state bodies of the Russian Federation?
We expect that migration and border control authorities may impose stricter limitations than those officially prescribed by the government.
Specifically, according to our information, the Migration department of Moscow (Sakharovo) has already stopped issuing and extending work permits to Chinese nationals including those who are already staying in Russia on the basis of work visas.
Coronavirus infection was included in the list of diseases which are hazardous to surrounding people which allows the authorities to limit entry and stay of foreign nationals in Russia for the sake of population’s health, should they be found to have the infection