Russia imposes new entry rules for Kazakhstanis

Starting June 30, Russia will put into effect new rules and terms for entering and exiting the country for foreigners and stateless individuals, announced Irina Volk, the official representative of Russia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA).

According to the new rules, Kazakhstanis who enter Russia visa-free must file an electronic application no later than 72 hours before the planned date of travel. This also applies to official representatives of children or legally incapacitated persons.

«The application may be filed no later than four hours before travel in cases of documented circumstances that require prompt entry into Russia, including emergency medical treatment, serious illness or the death of a close relative,» Volk added.

The application will be available for filing online by foreign nationals once their digital profiles are created in the RuID app, which serves as a platform alternative to the Gosuslugi service — Russia’s digital government system.

«This measure is another crucial step in the gradual effort to improve control over migration movements,» the Russian official stated.

Russian authorities pledge that foreigners’ digital profiles will facilitate access to government services, including those related to migration, as well as provide information on any possible restrictions imposed prior to entering Russia.

Furthermore, the app will feature data on crossing Russia’s border.

In May, Russia prohibited entry to several Kazakhstani journalists. However, Kazakhstani authorities have no clear understanding of the reasons behind the entry restrictions.

At the same time, Uzbekistan is considering streamlining entry procedures for Kazakhstanis.