Russia Introduces New Migration Rules

A vegetable market in Saratov (file photo) (ITAR-TASS)

January 15, 2007 -- New Russian legislation came into force today easing complex immigration procedures for citizens of former Soviet countries that have a non-visa regime with Russia.

Under the new law, immigrants from these countries are now able to obtain work permits within 10 days.

The compulsory registration process has also been simplified. The new rules follow the introduction of a government decree on January 1 that restricts the number of non-Russians working in the retail sector.

(AP, AFP, Interfax, ITAR-TASS)