Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has stated that tightening entry regulations for labor migrants from Central Asia and other former Soviet republics does not align with Russia’s long-term interests. He made this statement during a government session in the State Duma, as reported by Kommersant.

Lavrov emphasized the need for stronger migration control, but without creating barriers or introducing a visa regime. According to him, recent measures aim to enhance oversight rather than restrict labor migration.

The minister also noted that citizens of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) can currently enter Russia without invitations or mandatory work location registration. However, he acknowledged that Russian authorities may consider requiring this information in the future to improve migrant tracking.

In 2024, Russia has already introduced stricter penalties for illegal migration networks, sham marriages, and crimes committed by undocumented migrants. However, the government rejected a proposal for a lifetime entry ban on foreigners with criminal records.