IMPACT – HIGH

Russia recently made changes to its COVID-19 policy for all foreign and Russian nationals entering the country.

Key Points:

  • All foreign citizens entering Russia for the purpose of work and all persons arriving on evacuation flights must enter quarantine for 14 days upon arrival.
  • In addition, foreign citizens will need to present negative COVID-19 test results conducted within three days of their arrival date and issued in Russian or in English.
  • Without negative test results, foreign citizens must undergo a PCR test for COVID-19 within 72 hours of arrival.
  • Russian citizens must undergo examination within three days from the date of arrival.
  • Employers must inform workers leaving Russia of the requirements and make sure arriving foreign citizen workers have negative test results.

Background: Russia first announced the quarantine requirement in March. Most foreign nationals remain barred from entering Russia, with exceptions for permanent residents and those with close relatives in Russia, or entering because of the death of a close relative. An exception also exists for some foreign nationals entering to provide technical support for foreign equipment. Entry is also available for those seeking medical treatment and for highly qualified specialist (HQS) employees who are on a special list created by the overseeing ministries, Federal Security Service and Ministry of Internal Affairs. Russian borders remain closed.

Analysis & Comments: As the response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available. Please check Deloitte’s COVID-19 Digital Map, available here, for information on travel restrictions and immigration changes in other countries.

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