Russia is introducing new immigration regulations easing entry and work-permit procedures for those designated 'highly-qualified professionals', which it hopes will increase its popularity as a relocation destination for international organisations and talent.

Under the new rules, anyone expected to earn over 2m rubles ($67,000/£46,000/€54,000) per year will automatically be allocated a new three-year work permit. With the work permits will come residency permits for the worker and his or her family, which may make long-term, and even permanent, moves more attractive

‘Highly-qualified professionals’ will pay 13% in income tax, compared with the current 30%. 

Audrey Goltsblat, MD and partner at Russian international law firm Goltsblat BLP, commented, “What is interesting in this amendment is the introduction of the notion of high-quality specialists, as, up until now, no distinction had ever been made between foreign migrants. This is a clear step towards the modernisation of Russia’s economy, as it will attract to our firms top-quality workers, who, in turn, will benefit from generous packages and higher prospects. There is a clear shortage of high-quality mid- to high-level executives, and Russia’s blue-chip firms really do stand to benefit from these new arrangements.

“This will also anchor Moscow as a leading European financial centre after London and Paris.”