Despite media reports suggesting an increased demand among Russian tech workers to relocate to Europe, Russia’s Ministry of Digital Development, Communications, and Mass Media stated that two-thirds of IT specialists who left the country after the invasion of Ukraine in 2022 have returned. The ministry reported that there has not been an outflow of IT specialists over the past year. However, a report by the Kommersant business daily revealed a 233% spike in demand for European residency permits among Russian tech workers between January and March 2024. Around half of the residency permit inquiries came from IT specialists, with France being the top choice due to its relaxed residency and investment rules compared to other EU members.
Garant In, an immigration consultancy firm, revealed that France accounted for 80% of all inquiries, attributing this to the country’s attractive residency and investment policies. This is in contrast to other EU members that are closing residency programs for Russian tech workers. The Communications Ministry of Russia reported an increase of 13% in the number of tech workers in the country in 2023, totaling around 857,000 workers. The ministry stated that the IT industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the Russian economy, with all economic indicators showing double-digit growth. In response to the outflow of tech workers, the Russian government has implemented various incentives and state support programs to encourage these workers to return to the country.
The Russian government’s efforts to bring back tech workers who left the country either in protest against the war in Ukraine or to escape being drafted into the army have been met with some success. While reports indicated a surge in demand for European residency permits among Russian tech workers, the majority of these workers have returned to Russia. France has emerged as a popular destination for Russian tech workers seeking residency permits due to its relaxed rules and investment opportunities, which are more attractive compared to other EU countries. Despite concerns of a brain drain in the IT sector, the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications, and Mass Media asserted that the number of tech workers in Russia has increased, reflecting the industry’s rapid growth.
The Russian government’s focus on retaining and attracting tech talent is evident through the array of incentives and support programs introduced to entice tech workers back to the country. With the IT industry being a key driver of economic growth in Russia, efforts are being made to ensure that the sector continues to thrive. The Communication Ministry highlighted the positive trajectory of the IT industry, with all key economic indicators pointing towards substantial growth. While Russian tech workers may have initially considered relocating to Europe, the appeal of returning to a growing industry with government support has led many to come back.
Overall, Russia’s efforts to retain and bring back tech workers have shown results, with two-thirds of those who left the country after the invasion of Ukraine returning. Despite reports of increased demand for European residency permits among Russian tech workers, the majority has opted to stay in Russia. The government’s initiatives to support the IT industry and provide incentives for tech workers are instrumental in ensuring the sector’s continued growth. While concerns persist about brain drain, the statistics indicate that the number of tech workers in Russia has increased, highlighting the industry’s resilience and potential for further expansion. France remains a popular choice for Russian tech workers seeking residency permits, attracted by its favorable policies compared to other EU countries. As the IT industry continues to flourish, Russia appears poised to maintain its position as a hub for tech talent.
