The structure of labor migration in Russia's construction industry is undergoing significant changes. Recent reports indicate that demand for workers from Uzbekistan and other Central Asian countries is markedly decreasing, while interest in specialists from India and South Asia is on the rise. This trend is expected to intensify by 2026, driven by a labor mobility agreement between Russia and India that is purportedly aimed at addressing workforce shortages.
Experts highlight that special training centers have been established in India to prepare welders, carpenters, and other construction professionals for overseas work, allegedly enhancing Russia's capacity to attract Indian labor for its construction projects. Concurrently, the number of applications from Uzbek citizens has dropped by approximately 3.5 times, with similar declines observed across other regional countries.
The reasons for this shift are attributed not only to the Russian government's tightening of migration policies but also to increased competition for labor. Many Uzbek migrant workers are now opting for employment in Persian Gulf states, such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where higher wages and more favorable conditions are offered, challenging Russia's ability to retain its traditional labor sources.
Despite this, Uzbek construction workers remain in demand, particularly in residential building sectors. Employers note that they are easier to work with in terms of documentation and interaction, thanks to years of established cooperation. However, large-scale projects are increasingly focusing on recruiting workers from visa-required countries, including India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam, as Russia's labor market diversifies to compensate for personnel deficits.
The Russian authorities are also preparing to tighten rules for labor migrants from visa-free CIS countries. According to a draft by the Finance Ministry, starting in 2027, migrants will be required to pay for patents not only for themselves but also for their minor children and other dependents. This measure could further complicate the evolving dynamics in Russia's labor market, raising concerns about its impact on migrant communities and economic stability.
Source: podrobno.uz