Violations and fines

Violating migration legislation is a common problem for migrants. Fines can range from 2,000 to 7,000 ₽, and in the worst case — deportation and an entry ban for up to 10 years. Let’s look at the types of violations and what to do.

Important: many violations provide not only administrative punishment (a fine) but also administrative deportation with an entry ban to Russia. This means you cannot return to Russia for several years.

Common violations of migrants

The 90/180 rule

The 90/180 rule is the most common violation after working without a patent.

Meaning: citizens of countries not part of the EAEU can stay in Russia for 90 days within each 180-day period.

Example:

• Entered January 1 — left March 30 (90 days);
• Entered April 1 — must leave within a maximum of 90 days.

If exceeded — a fine of up to 5,000 ₽ + deportation + entry ban up to 5 years.

Not counted:

• Days of work under a patent (you can stay longer);
• Study at a university;
• Treatment by referral;
• Residence Permit and TRP.

What to do if you are detained

1. Stay calm

Do not argue, do not be rude. Introduce yourself, show your documents.

2. Demand a representative

You have the right to an interpreter and a lawyer. If you do not understand Russian — demand an interpreter.

3. Do not sign incomprehensible documents

If you do not understand — do not sign. Ask for an interpreter.

4. Demand a copy of the protocol

The protocol on an administrative offense is your document. A copy must be provided.

5. Notify the consulate

The embassy or consulate of your country can help. Write down their phone number.

Fines for the employer

If the employer uses illegal labor — fines for them:

• 250,000–800,000 ₽ — for each illegal worker (Art. 18.15 of the Administrative Code);
• Suspension of activity — up to 90 days;
• Criminal liability — for repeated violation (Art. 322.1 of the Criminal Code).

This means: the employer is interested in legal employment — patent, VHI, contract. Demand it.

Deportation — what it is

Administrative deportation is the forced removal of a foreigner from Russia. The decision is made by the court.

What happens during deportation

1. Court decision — usually on the day of detention;
2. Placement in a temporary detention center — if there is no money for a ticket;
3. Ticket purchase — at the migrant’s or state’s expense;
4. Entry ban — up to 5 years (sometimes up to 10);
5. Deportation — within 5 days.

How to lift the entry ban

Grounds for lifting the entry ban:

• Marriage to a Russian citizen;
• Children — Russian citizens;
• Severe illness of a close relative;
• Error in the deportation decision;
• Mitigating circumstances.

How to submit:

1. Contact the MVD for migration issues;
2. Collect documents — confirming the grounds;
3. Submit an application through the Russian consulate in your country;
4. Wait for the decision — up to 3 months.

FAQ

What is the fine for working without a patent?

2,000–5,000 ₽ + administrative deportation + entry ban up to 5 years.

What is the 90/180 rule?

Citizens of countries not in the EAEU can stay in Russia for 90 days within 180 days. Exceeding — a fine and deportation.

Can deportation be appealed?

Yes. Within 10 days through court. In mitigating circumstances — replaced by a fine.

How to lift the entry ban?

Through the MVD, if there are grounds — marriage to a Russian citizen, children who are Russian citizens, severe illness of a close relative.

What to do if I am detained?

Stay calm, demand an interpreter and lawyer, do not sign incomprehensible documents, notify the consulate.

Can I be deported without a court?

No. Administrative deportation — only by court decision. But in some cases — deportation by MVD decision.

Summary: what to do

1. Monitor deadlines — patent, registration, stay;
2. Do not work without a patent — fine and deportation;
3. Work according to the profession and region of the patent;
4. Follow the 90/180 rule — count the days;
5. Get VHI — mandatory;
6. Keep documents — carry copies with you;
7. If detained — calm, interpreter, lawyer;
8. When appealing — 10 days through court;
9. To lift the ban — MVD + Russian consulate.

If you are detained, deported, banned from entry, or face other problems — immediately consult a migration lawyer. Initial consultation is free. In urgent cases — around the clock.