Russia to tighten language requirements for migrants

Foreign nationals applying for work or residency permits in Russia will soon face more stringent requirements in language exams, particularly in the listening and speaking sections, Interfax reports, citing the press service of Rosobrnadzor (Federal Service for Supervision in Education and Science).

“The requirements for completing listening and speaking tasks in the exams on the Russian language, Russian history, and the basics of Russian legislation are being revised,” the statement reads.

Specifically, for those applying for a work permit or patent, the number of listening tasks will be increased from two to four. In addition, a minimum required score will be introduced for the "Listening" section in order to pass the exam.

Mandatory passing scores will also be established for both the Listening and Speaking sections for those seeking a temporary residence permit or a residency permit in Russia.

According to the agency, these changes are part of ongoing efforts to improve the examination process and to align the testing procedures for foreign adults and their children.

Moreover, a decision has been made to systematically expand the bank of test tasks used in administering these exams. Starting June 23, 2025, the number of tasks in the official test database will be doubled.

Rosobrnadzor announced that from July 10, 2025, all state institutions responsible for administering the exams will be required to follow the new requirements and utilize the updated task bank.

“These measures aim to increase the objectivity of Russian language proficiency assessments and to encourage foreign citizens wishing to live and work in Russia to improve their language skills,” the statement concluded.