Russia mandates language requirements for migrant children in schools

MOSCOW

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday signed a law that restricts migrant children's enrollment in schools unless they demonstrate proficiency in Russian.

Also, under the new legislation, foreign citizens can enroll in basic general education programs only if they provide documentation confirming their legal residency in the Russian Federation.

Additionally, they must pass a Russian language proficiency test to demonstrate the ability to follow educational programs at the primary, basic, and secondary levels.

The Russian government has ensured that the language exam will be available free of charge at state or municipal educational institutions. However, those who fail the test will not be permitted to enroll in these programs.

According to the law, the Ministry of Education will establish the procedures for administering the test.