Tough migration rules enter force in Russia

New legislation tightening government control of migration came into force in Russia yesterday, prompting concerns about a crackdown among the millions of illegal workers.

The rules ease stringent procedures for citizens of most former Soviet republics who enter Russia from January 15 to obtain work permits.

But authorities are carrying out strict checks of the estimated 10-12 million foreigners who are already working in Russia, most of them illegally. Employers who have staff without proper documents face fines of up to 800,000 rubles ($30,100).