In Russia, foreigners who obtain citizenship must fulfill military obligations.

Central Asia (CA) – The Russian parliament has passed a law on compulsory military service for foreigners who have acquired Russian citizenship. State Duma deputies immediately approved the bill in the third reading.

The law states that failure to fulfill the obligation to initially register with the military is grounds for deprivation of Russian citizenship.

According to the law, men of military age who have acquired Russian citizenship must register for military service in their place of residence. Many new citizens have shirked this responsibility. Deputies believe that the amendments will ensure that new Russian citizens comply with their “constitutional obligation to defend the motherland.” The law also requires the Ministry of Internal Affairs to provide electronic data on men who have acquired citizenship.

The Code on Military Service and Military Duty and the Code on Citizenship of the Russian Federation are being revised and will come into force after their official publication.

Previously, Russia approved a special deportation regime for migrants who violated Russian law, including restrictions on free movement and driving. It also proposed extending military service to two years and raising the conscription age for new citizens, but these changes were not included in the final document.