Interior Ministry reveals Russia amplified migrant expulsions in 2024

(MENAFN) The number of foreign nationals expelled from Russia in 2024 surged to 190,000, marking a nearly 30% increase from the previous year, Interior Ministry spokeswoman Irina Volk announced on Wednesday. The crackdown follows a terrorist attack in March 2024 at a concert hall near Moscow, where four gunmen killed 145 people and injured over 500. The attack, claimed by ISIS-K, was carried out by Tajik nationals, with many suspected accomplices also being Central Asian foreigners, some with prior criminal records.

According to Volk, the number of foreign nationals deported for legal violations rose by 45% compared to 2023, while the number of entry bans issued increased by 54%, totaling over 267,000. Additionally, the number of temporary residence permits issued was halved, and permanent residence permits declined by nearly 25% due to stricter enforcement measures aimed at preventing abuse of simplified immigration procedures.

In December, President Vladimir Putin signed a decree requiring undocumented migrants to legalize their status or leave Russia by April 30, 2025. New laws were also introduced, including a register of "controlled persons" for tracking illegal migration. As of February 5, 2025, deporting undocumented migrants no longer requires a court ruling.

Furthermore, organizing illegal migration has been classified as a serious offense, with penalties including asset confiscation for those profiting from human trafficking. The measures aim to eliminate financial incentives for illegal migration networks.

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