A new procedure for processing sick leave payments for labor migrants and foreign specialists is being discussed in the Russian State Duma. Svetlana Bessarab, a member of the State Duma Committee on Labor, Social Policy, and Veterans' Affairs, stated that these changes are intended to bring legislative requirements into line with a single standard.
According to the new initiative, foreign workers will only be eligible for temporary disability benefits six months after insurance contributions have begun. Currently, no such restriction exists, and an employee can become eligible for benefits immediately upon employment.
The deputy explained that this measure is being introduced to ensure that the amount of insurance contributions is proportional to the expected benefit. At the same time, the procedure for providing emergency medical care to foreign citizens will remain unchanged, but a mandatory period of employment will be required to receive other types of social payments.
It is emphasized that this initiative aims to create equal conditions for all categories of foreigners temporarily staying, as well as those temporarily or permanently residing in Russia. For now, the bill is in the discussion stage, and no specific information regarding when it will come into effect has been provided.
