The Recruiting State: russia Ties Migrants to the War Through Money

russia’s government has submitted to the state duma a draft law which increases state fees in the migration sector 12-fold while simultaneously introducing benefits for some categories of foreigners.

According to the document published in the russian parliament’s electronic database, fees for naturalization and renunciation of citizenship could rise from 4,200 to 50,000 rubles. The cost of obtaining a residence permit will rise from 6,000 to 30,000 rubles, and a temporary residence permit – from 1,900 to 15,000 rubles. Fees for visas and entry invitations will also increase.

At the same time, the draft law provides for exceptions: former citizens of the ussr, participants in the compatriot resettlement program, as well as foreigners who have signed a contract with the ministry of defense of the rf for at least one year during the so-called special military operation, along with their family members, are exempt from paying the fees.

Formally, the government explains the changes as necessary to cover the costs of migration services and increase budget revenues. At the same time, in reality, such a system of benefits and exemptions creates financial incentives for some migrants to consider signing contracts with russian military structures.