New Health Examination Rules for Foreigners Take Effect in Russia
Mandatory health tests for foreigners staying in Russia for more than 90 days, a digital reporting system, and heavy prison sentences for forged documents have begun.
A new mandatory health examination and digital report requirement has been implemented for foreign citizens who will stay in Russia for more than 90 days. With the new regulation, HIV and drug tests have become mandatory, and prison sentences of up to eight years are envisaged for those who issue forged reports.
New Health Test and Procedure Rules
The mandatory health examination, which includes HIV and drug tests for foreigners staying in Russia for more than 90 days, officially started as of September 1. Foreigners arriving in the country are required to obtain these reports within one month after crossing the border.
Fines and Risk of Deportation
Foreigners who evade the obligation to obtain a health report will face fines ranging from 25,000 to 50,000 rubles and the danger of deportation from the country. This procedure is required to be repeated every year.
Digital Reporting and Ministry Database
Healthcare institutions will be obliged to approve reports issued for foreigners with an electronic signature and upload them to the database of the Russian Ministry of Health within one day. If a dangerous disease is detected in the tests, the relevant institutions will be notified.
Heavy Prison Sentences for Forged Reports
With the new law, prison sentences of up to eight years have been introduced for the crimes of issuing, selling, and purchasing fake health reports. In mass sales made via the internet, prison sentences along with multi-million ruble fines can be applied.
Justification of the Legislation and Expert Opinions
Adopted by the State Duma in May 2026, the regulation aims to solve the "gray" health report problem. Experts state that controlling all health documents through a digital registry will facilitate oversight.