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Foreign nationals in Russia will be able to extend their current visas without facing a penalty due to the coronavirus outbreak that is closing borders and canceling flights worldwide, the kremlin press service said.

In accordance with the Executive Order signed by President Putin, the period from March 15 until June 15, inclusive, shall not be included in the period of temporary stay or temporary or permanent residence in Russia for foreign nationals and stateless persons. It is noted that from March 15 until June 15, inclusive, employers have the right to engage or hire foreign nationals and stateless persons who have no work permit or license, provided that employers observe the set restrictions and sanitary and epidemiological measures.

The order also stipulates that no decisions should be taken concerning foreign nationals and stateless persons as regards undesirability of their stay, administrative expulsion from Russia, deportation or extradition, depriving them of the refugee status and others.

To remind, Russia has temporarily banned all foreign citizens from entering the country and suspended its issuance of nearly all types of visas in an attempt to contain the spread of the coronavirus within its borders.