Russia Publishes List of ‘Destructive Countries’ - With Their Nationals Eligible For Russian Residency

Moscow has listed 47 countries, including some from Asia, whose “destructive attitudes” contradict Russian values, opening the path for nationals of these nations to seek asylum in Russia if they so choose. This follows the signing of a Presidential decree last month allowing foreigners who disagree with the “neoliberal” agenda pushed by their own governments to apply for Russian residency.

That list has now been published and includes the following countries and territories: Australia, Austria, Albania, Andorra, the Bahamas, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Lichtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Micronesia, Monaco, Montenegro, the Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Taiwan, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

According to Putin’s edict, nationals of “destructive neoliberal” countries are eligible to seek temporary residence in Russia without having to satisfy the standard immigration requirements, such as national quotas, Russian language proficiency, and knowledge of Russian history and laws.

The concept streamlines the immigration and naturalization process for foreigners who shared the “cultural, traditional and family values” of Russia, while also presenting it as a way to help Russia overcome a demographic dip. The scheme may also be extended to provide full Russian nationality and passport.

Nationals of these countries who wish to discuss their eligibility for the relocation to Russia scheme should contact the Russian Embassy in their country of origin or current residence.