Russia plans to introduce SIM card restrictions for migrants

A new bill being discussed in the Russian State Duma proposes yet another restriction regarding migrants in the country. According to this initiative, foreigners and stateless persons may be prohibited from registering more than one SIM card in their name.

This proposal was put forward by Yaroslav Nilov, the Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Labor, Social Policy and Veterans' Affairs. According to him, such a restriction is aimed at strengthening national security, enhancing communication control, and protecting national interests.

“In the context of growing threats related to terrorism, espionage, cyber fraud, and other risks, it is important to monitor the use of SIM cards,” said Nilov.

According to the information, starting from January 1, 2025, migrants will be prohibited from registering more than 10 SIM cards in their name. Additionally, foreign citizens and stateless persons will be allowed to sign contracts with mobile operators only in person, presenting identification documents and using mandatory biometric data.

Restrictions go beyond just SIM cards

Other migration-related proposals by Yaroslav Nilov have also drawn public attention. For example, he suggested deporting children of migrants who fail the Russian language exam in Russian schools after three attempts, and also proposed banning free childbirth services for migrant women.

Such strict measures may indicate the beginning of a new phase in Russia’s migration policy. Experts are debating how these restrictions might affect social relations. On social media, the proposal has sparked heated discussion among the public.

Personal data rights, communication access, and humanitarian standards — all of these remain critical elements in this process. Migrants in Russia are anxiously watching how this may impact their future.