Russia: Upcoming Changes to the HQS Program - Salary Thresholds and Compliance in Focus

On February 21, 2026, the Government submitted the draft law to the State Duma on the status of foreign nationals in Russia, indicating a new phase in the development of migration framework. For companies employing foreigners, especially Highly Qualified Specialists (HQS), the proposed changes highlight 2 key themes: tighter regulation and higher salary thresholds.

While the initiated legislative process is still ongoing, the direction is clear — the HQS program is becoming increasingly selective, with remuneration continuing to serve as the main qualifying criterion.

Salary as the cornerstone of HQS eligibility

The HQS program has always been closely linked to compensation levels. Under current rules, most HQS must receive at least RUB 750,000 per quarter (~ RUB 250,000 per month) to maintain their status.

Failure to comply with this threshold can lead to serious consequences, including fines, revocation of work permits and restrictions on future HQS hiring.

Planned salary increase in 2026

In addition to the existing threshold, the draft legislative initiatives suggest an expected further increase in the minimum salary level to be formalized in 2026 after the draft law is approved by the State Duma.

The recent years’ trend of gradually raising salary requirements will continue to ensure that the HQS program is used primarily for top-tier specialists and key strategic roles.

For employers it means:

• Reassessment of HQS remuneration structures
• Higher salary benchmarks into workforce budgets
• Review of long-term mobility strategies

Broader compliance implications

Alongside remuneration adjustments, the draft law reflects a broader policy shift towards enhanced migration control. Companies may face:

• Additional administrative procedures
• Closer compliance monitoring
• Stricter documentation requirements

As a result, HQS employment is increasingly moving from a purely administrative process to a strategic HR and compliance priority.

What companies should do now

Even before the final adoption of the amendments, employers are advised to take the following proactive steps:

• Audit current HQS and payroll compliance
• Review internal migration procedures
• Assess financial impact of potential salary increases
• Closely monitor legislative developments

Outlook

The expected changes reinforce a clear regulatory trajectory: Russia is moving towards a more selective and tightly controlled high-skilled migration framework, with salary thresholds as a central mechanism.

Companies that plan ahead will be best positioned to maintain compliance and ensure continuity in their international workforce strategy.