A register of controlled persons has been launched in Russia, causing hundreds of foreigners to face the blocking of bank cards. According to the authorities' intention, only illegal immigrants should be included in the register, but in practice, the restrictions have also affected those who are legally in the country.
Since February 5, illegal immigrants in Russia have been included in the register before deportation. They are prohibited from changing their place of residence, entering into transactions, opening accounts, etc. Banks restrict access to funds, allowing only 30,000 rubles to be withdrawn per month through the cash desk. The system is malfunctioning: people with residence permits and registration have also ended up on the lists. Accounts have been frozen even for those who have not been included in the register.
Lawyers report that foreigners first appear in the register, then disappear, but reappear on the list after an update.
Read materials on the topic:
A Public Register of Illegal Migrants to Launch in Russia in February
All Foreigners Will Be Required to Submit Biometrics Upon Entering Russia Starting June 30
