Russia has expanded the grounds for declaring the stay of foreign nationals with dangerous infectious diseases, including HIV, undesirable. The new rules took effect on October 13, 2026, TASS reports, citing State Duma (Russia’s lower chamber of parliament) member Igor Antropenko.
Previously, authorities could declare a foreign national’s stay in Russia undesirable based on a medical report issued following a special examination.
“Now, grounds for such a decision may also include notification that the disease was detected during a medical examination or when medical assistance was provided,” Antropenko said.
The changes were introduced by a Russian government decree dated October 13, 2026.
How will decisions be made?
After receiving information about a foreign national’s diagnosis, Russia’s consumer protection and public health watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor, must decide within 10 working days whether the person’s stay in the country should be declared undesirable. If additional information is needed, the review period may be extended to 60 calendar days.
The individual will be notified of the decision in person or by mail and must leave Russia. Failure to do so may result in deportation.
If the decision concerns a minor, it also applies to their legal representative residing in Russia.
The decision may be revoked if the foreign national submits medical documents confirming recovery.
The rules provide for several exceptions. They include contract military personnel and former contract servicemen who participated in combat operations as part of the Russian armed forces. Certain foreign nationals living with HIV are also exempt if they have close relatives permanently residing in Russia.
What changed for migrants on September 1?
The new rules follow a broader tightening of medical screening requirements for foreign nationals.
From September 1, 2026, Russia shortened the deadline for migrants to undergo mandatory medical examinations from 90 days to 30 days after arrival.
Foreign nationals staying in Russia for more than 30 days must undergo annual screening for dangerous infectious diseases, HIV and drug use. Migrants or their employers must cover the cost of the examinations.
Medical checks may be conducted only by authorized medical organizations, without intermediaries.
Medical examinations are also required when applying for a temporary residence permit or a work permit, as well as when renewing a labor patent.