(MENAFN) Starting in March 2026, all labor migrants entering Russia will be required to undergo testing for viral hepatitis B and C, expanding the country’s existing medical screening regulations. The new rules will cover foreign citizens and stateless individuals arriving for work, as well as those applying for refugee status or temporary asylum.

Medical examinations are mandatory for migrants. Without completing them, individuals cannot obtain work permits, temporary residency, or permanent residency in Russia. Labor migrants must complete their medical tests within 30 calendar days of arrival, while non-working arrivals have up to 90 days. Current screenings already include checks for drugs and infectious diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, syphilis, and leprosy.

The updated health screening measures were proposed earlier this year by a migration policy working group led by State Duma Deputy Speaker Irina Yarovaya. She said the changes aim to strengthen health monitoring of foreign arrivals and prevent the spread of dangerous infections.

Labor migrants are a vital component of Russia’s economy, filling key roles in construction, agriculture, and service sectors. Most come from Central Asia, drawn by higher wages than in their home countries. The influx has, however, prompted discussions about public health and social stability, leading Russian authorities to introduce stricter health requirements alongside enforcement measures.

In addition to the expanded screenings, Russia has intensified efforts to combat illegal immigration. Earlier this year, President Vladimir Putin signed a decree establishing a new state agency within the Interior Ministry to oversee migration management. The Kremlin said the move is intended to ensure compliance with Russian laws among migrants, reduce illegal activity, and bring order to the country’s migration processes.

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