Country News

Russia has approved new rules for highly qualified foreign specialists: from March 2027, most will need a minimum monthly salary of RUB 717,000 to qualify for HQS status, requiring employers to review hiring terms.

Russia’s Supreme Court clarified that splitting payments over RUB 10 million to recipients in “unfriendly” jurisdictions to bypass restrictions is illegal, increasing legal risks for Russian companies, banks and foreign creditors.

The Russian Supreme Court has confirmed a strict approach to countersanctions: transactions and payments that circumvent special rules may be declared invalid, increasing legal risks for companies, banks, brokers and parties dealing with foreign entities.

Belarus will allow the use of digital assets for selected cross-border settlements with non-residents via crypto banks from July 18, 2026, expanding international payment options for businesses, self-employed professionals, forex firms and leasing companies.

Russia has introduced a new SPOT system for imports from the EAEU, while temporarily waiving the security deposit for importers to help businesses adapt to the new import requirements.