Russia Deports Over 80,000 Migrants for Immigration Violations in 2024
In 2024, Russia has stepped up its efforts to enforce immigration laws by forcibly deporting over 80,000 foreign nationals and stateless individuals, as reported by the Russian Federal Bailiff Service (FBS). This figure represents a significant increase compared to previous years, with 44,200 deportations in 2023 and 26,600 in 2022.
Chief Bailiff of Russia, Dmitry Aristov, revealed that between 2017 and 2022, approximately 200,000 migrants were removed from the country for violations of immigration and labor laws. The recent wave of deportations in 2024 is largely centered around the Moscow region, where around 23,000 individuals were expelled for administrative violations.
The deportations are carried out under Article 18.8 of the Russian Administrative Code, which deals with breaches of entry rules or residence regulations by foreign nationals and stateless individuals. As a result of these actions, the deported individuals are prohibited from returning to Russia for the next five years.
In a separate incident, a 22-year-old Uzbek citizen faced legal consequences for his involvement in the Ukraine war while residing in Russia. The young man, who had originally moved to Moscow to study at Synergy University and work seasonal jobs, was detained by authorities for lacking proper documentation. He was given the choice between deportation with criminal charges or joining the army with the promise of Russian citizenship.
These recent developments highlight Russia’s strict enforcement of immigration laws and the consequences faced by those found in violation of these regulations. It serves as a reminder for foreign nationals and stateless individuals to adhere to the country’s laws to avoid facing similar circumstances in the future.
