Abaev explained that there are deep historical roots in the connections between the peoples of Kazakhstan and Russia.
- Citizens of both countries actively engage in trade, tourism, and labor activities. The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) ensures the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor.
- According to the Kazakh ambassador, the prohibition on the arrival of migrant workers' families could negatively impact humanitarian aspects.
Additionally, recent changes regarding the temporary stay of foreigners in Russia have also created certain difficulties. These regulations apply to everyone, including Kazakh citizens. As a result, those who typically come to Russia for long-term medical treatment, to care for sick relatives, and for other humanitarian purposes have faced challenges," noted Abaev.
He believes that the authors of the bill consider the interests of ordinary citizens.
As the Kazakh ambassador to Russia reminded, the EAEU treaty grants workers the right to work in member states without special permits, as well as the possibility of extending the duration of their labor contracts. These rights also apply to the family members of labor migrants.
Referring to data from the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, Abaev stated that in 2024, more than 105,000 Kazakh citizens were officially employed in Russia. This represents less than 2% of the total number of foreign citizens registered in our country (6 million people). Furthermore, the Kazakh ambassador also pointed out that there has not been a significant increase in the number of Kazakh labor migrants over the past five years.
Kazakhs primarily work in the commercial sector, legal entities, and enterprises. In case of issues related to labor relations, they can rely on the support of the Kazakh embassy, which operates under bilateral agreements with Russia and the CIS Convention on Legal Assistance.
Since last year, Russia has begun tightening legislation regarding migrants in the context of the terrorist attack at "Krokus City Hall." In the summer, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law allowing the expulsion of foreigners without a court decision, as well as a decree supporting migrants who share "traditional Russian spiritual and moral values."
In the fall of 2024, it became known that Russia would toughen penalties for organizing illegal migration, with offenders facing up to 15 years in prison. Additionally, if a crime is committed by a foreigner illegally in the country, this is considered an aggravating circumstance. In November, Russia tightened entry rules for foreigners—they will be required to submit their biomaterials for genomic registration. Thus, the Russian authorities aim to identify migrants' identities. A registry of foreigners illegally residing in the country will also be established. Once it is operational, migrants without legal status will be unable to get married, use banking services, drive vehicles, or enroll their children in schools. Furthermore, State Duma deputies have proposed abolishing the visa-free regime for citizens of Central Asia.