The Russian Ministry of Finance has proposed a significant increase in state fees for migration services, a move that could directly affect the flow of labor migrants from Uzbekistan.

Under the initiative, the cost of key migration services would rise several times over. A multiple-entry visa would more than triple to 6,000 rubles, a residence permit (VNZh) would cost 30,000 rubles, and a temporary residence permit (RVP) would be set at 15,000 rubles. The fee for an entry invitation would also increase sharply to 8,000 rubles.

The amendments have already been approved by a government commission and could take effect on July 1, 2026. They are expected to generate up to 16 billion rubles annually for the Russian budget.

Experts believe the changes could impact migration flows from Central Asian countries, primarily Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, which are traditional suppliers of labor to Russia.

Higher documentation costs may reduce interest in relocation and legalization, especially among those planning to obtain residence permits. However, the fee increase will barely affect employers, as the cost of permits to hire foreign workers will rise only slightly.

Analysts warn that a reduction in the number of migrants from Uzbekistan would exacerbate labor shortages in key sectors of the Russian economy, including construction, agriculture, housing and utilities, and trade.

Certain categories of foreigners will retain benefits. Former stateless citizens of the USSR, participants in the compatriots resettlement program and their families, as well as foreigners who sign contracts to serve in the Russian army, will be exempt from fees for obtaining citizenship.

Earlier reports indicated that over 100 Uzbek workers in Russia remained without wages and even basic food supplies for four months, with total debt to compatriots reaching 24 million rubles.

Source: podrobno.uz