In 2025, the cost of a work permit for foreign workers in Moscow will rise to 8,900 rubles, an increase of nearly 1,500 rubles from the current rate, Fergana News reports, citing Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin.
Sobyanin reportedly emphasized that the taxes paid by migrants should align with the income tax contributions of Russian citizens.
“We compare the monthly income tax paid by our citizens with that of this category of workers, who typically have low skill levels. Currently, the monthly permit fee is 7,500 rubles, which essentially functions as an advance income tax. Starting January 1, it will be 8,900 rubles,” Sobyanin explained.
According to Sobyanin, this measure is designed to equalize employer expenses for both migrants and Russian citizens.
"The mechanism was established some time ago specifically to ensure that employing a migrant is not cheaper for employers than hiring our own citizens," he added. Moscow currently has about 450,000 active work permits, with no significant increase in new permits being issued.
