Sverdlovsk Oblast's migrant exodus accelerates amid stricter immigration crackdowns
Sverdlovsk Oblast has seen a sharp drop in migrant numbers over the past year. Around 7,000 foreign workers left the region voluntarily, while stricter immigration rules took effect. Authorities have also stepped up raids and deportations in 2023, removing hundreds without proper documents. The decline began before Governor Denis Pasler introduced new restrictions in March 2023. His decree banned foreign workers from certain patent-based jobs, though those with valid permits, residency, or temporary status remained unaffected. No official figures exist on how many migrants still work legally in these restricted roles.
Tighter controls have led to more enforcement actions. In early 2023, police raids uncovered 85 undocumented migrants in a single operation. Three Russian citizens were also caught evading military service during the same raid. Since January, over 2 million rubles in fines have been imposed on foreign nationals for immigration violations.
Deportations have risen steadily. In the first three months of 2023 alone, 900 undocumented migrants were removed from the region. This follows 1,400 deportations recorded in the first ten months of 2022. Many migrants have chosen to leave on their own, drawn by better working conditions in neighbouring countries and stricter Russian immigration policies. The region now faces a reduced migrant workforce, with thousands departing either by choice or through deportation. Authorities continue to enforce the new job restrictions while targeting those without proper documentation. The long-term impact on local industries relying on foreign labour remains unclear.
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