Interesting news article from mn.ru
I found this article interesting since I am considering the idea of looking for work in Russia.
---
Russian Language Tests? Da!
By Oleg Liakhovich The Moscow News
The Russian parliament has developed a bill to introduce compulsory language tests for foreign citizens applying for work in Russia, the local media reported.
The Russian parliament has developed a bill to introduce compulsory language tests for foreign citizens applying for work in Russia, the local media reported.
The move comes as the latest attempt by the government to curb its seemingly uncontrollable immigration flow. The campaign introduced stringent medical examinations, as well as an immigration law that bans foreigners from selling alcohol, pharmaceutical supplies, and being employed as market vendors.
In a draft document forwarded by two members of the State Duma, the lower chamber of the Russian parliament, migrants planning to work longer than a year in Russia will be required to pass a Russian language test. The Federal Migration Service confirmed it supported the draft.
"We have an interest in this and support the lawmakers' initiative," the service said in a statement.
"It is obvious that without knowledge of the Russian language it is impossible to integrate into Russian society," the service said.
According to Alexander Krutov of the left-leaning A Just Russia party and one of the authors of the draft law, the only exception would be for foreigners working in foreign firms.
Krutov said all other arrivals should be given a test on Russian within three months of arriving. If they fail, they will be denied a work permit and will be given the option of taking the test at a later date.
http://english.mn.ru/english/issue.php?2007-18-6
