Russia tightens medical checks for foreigners

Foreigners arriving in Russia and staying for more than 90 days are to be fingerprinted and have regular mandatory medical checks, according to new legislation that came into force on Wednesday.

Anyone staying for over 90 days will have to take tests for drug use and infectious diseases, including HIV and tuberculosis, every 12 months, starting from March 2022. Until recently, similar requirements applied to only those foreigners in Russia who were seeking work permits, as well as temporary or permanent residency permits.

Exemptions have been granted to Belarusian nationals, diplomats, members of international organisations and their families as well as children under the age of six.