Knowledge of Russian Language Required: New Migration Regulations in Russia

Foreigners applying for residency and citizenship in Russia are required to have a basic knowledge of the Russian language, announced Irina Volk, a representative of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Currently, the territorial bodies of the Ministry are identifying foreign nationals who do not possess at least a minimum level of Russian proficiency but hold relevant certificates. Law enforcement agencies are also intercepting and holding accountable organized groups that are conducting fraudulent exams.

“Foreign citizens who have certificates but clearly do not know Russian will not be granted migration status,” Volk stated.