Russia: New Vaccination Requirement for Work Permit Holders

As of February 8, 2023, employers are required to schedule measles vaccines for their foreign workers who have either never had measles or cannot provide a vaccination certificate. Previously, this was not required. This will apply to all permit holders, including those under Highly Qualified Specialist (HQS) work permits and Standard Work Permits. Immunity or vaccination status may be shown by an original or certified copy of a vaccination certificate or similar medical document, as well as a doctor's note based on test results for the presence of antibodies to measles. Foreign nationals can refuse vaccination by writing a letter stating their refusal in the presence of a medical professional and having the medical professional sign off on the letter after they have informed the patient of the risks and benefits of the vaccine. Evidence of worker vaccination or refusal must be obtained by employers by December 31, 2023. Employers are not required to inform the Rospotrebnadzor sanitary agency of their employees’ vaccination statuses; however, since authorities have been requesting such information, employers must have these records on file in case of medical compliance audits. Failure to comply may result in administrative penalties ranging from a warning, monetary fines ranging from RUB 10,000 to 20,000 to a suspension of operations.