Transformation of the migration policy of the Russian Federation

Abstract

This paper examines how the digitalisation of migration administration and updated policy priorities reshape the economic performance of migration regulation in Russia. The analysis focuses on the 2023–2024 discontinuity in recorded net migration: the surge observed in 2024 is interpreted as the combined effect of real inflow dynamics and increased registration completeness driven by inter–agency electronic data exchange. Regulatory instruments (quota/ permit arrangements, qualification filters, and integration measures) are assessed through their impact on labour–market structure and the transaction costs of legal employment. The state information resource «Digital Profile of a Foreign Citizen» is discussed as a data infrastructure enabling differentiated regimes across migrant categories while reducing administrative frictions and maintaining manageability. Policy priorities for 2026–2030 are proposed, emphasising statistical comparability under methodological change, stronger selectivity, and improved federal–regional coordination supported by unified information systems.