In a major step in reviving India-Russia relations, Russia is seeking to recruit up to 1 million skilled Indian workers by the end of 2025 to fill critical labour shortages in its expanding industrial sectors. This new labour migration plan should address the skills gaps, with the potential to open additional global employment prospects for Indian workers.
Why is Russia seeking Indian workers?
Russia has an increasing shortage of skilled labour: especially in and around industrial zones like Sverdlovsk; home to several iconic factories such as Uralmash and Uralvagonzavod, manufacturer of the T-90 tank. Many local workers are currently deployed in military operations, and young workers are not seeking jobs in factories. Therefore, Russia is looking for global talent to keep up with increasing production levels.
The Sverdlovsk Advantage
Located in the Ural Mountains, Sverdlovsk is the beating heart of Russia’s heavy industry and defence manufacturing. Now, Indian specialists will be part of a vital mission to revive and scale operations across the region.
Andrey Besedin, President of the Ural Chamber of Commerce and Industry, confirmed that the new Consulate General opening in Yekaterinburg will manage this large-scale hiring initiative.
What’s the Process?
- Indian skilled workers will be recruited through formal channels.
- A new Russian consulate will help oversee documentation and approvals.
- The effort is government-supported, aligning with Russia’s economic priorities.
Who is Eligible?
While there are no specific skill categories yet, the focus is on:
- Qualified and experienced professionals
- Industrial and technical workers
- Anyone who is willing to relocate and work in a production unit in Russia
At the beginning of 2024, Indian workers were already placed by the Kaliningrad-based fish processing company “Za Rodinu,” and thus the broader wave of hiring workers began.
The Bigger Picture
- Russia may lose1 million workers by 2030
- In 2024, 47,000 skilled migrants from non-CIS countries were hired by Russian companies
- In 2025, the quota of foreign skilled workers will be 1.5 times larger
Other Countries Were Considered—but India Stands Out
Sri Lanka, North Korea, and other countries are being considered; however, India stands out as a trusted partner with a large, skilled talent pool.
The Russian Ministry of Economic Development has also suggested broadening the pool of foreign talent and eliminating its focus on former Soviet republics after tightening its migration laws with domestic security interests in mind.
A Win-Win for Both Nations
This move marks a positive shift in global labour mobility—helping Russia meet its industrial goals while creating high-quality job opportunities for Indians abroad.
As diplomatic and business channels open wider, this initiative could become a blueprint for future global workforce collaborations.
Stay tuned for more updates on opportunities, process guidelines, and how Indian workers can apply.
