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Russia Legalities

Business isn't as easy in some countries as it is here in the UK. You need to be aware of the cultural and legal implications of your business operations, because, in some places, you could face heavy punishment for transgressing.

It is therefore important to acclimatise yourself with the law. There will be many legalities that you will have to adhere to, and you may even find that some laws you are familiar with here in the UK are no longer applicable. Likewise, you may find some new laws which strike you as strange or even oppressive.

Some of the areas to investigate are:

Labour Laws

The body of laws, administrative rulings, and precedents which oversees the legal rights of, and restrictions on, employees and their organisations. This will include things such as minimum wage, holiday and maternity entitlement, ergonomics, trade unions, disability, etc.

Commercial Laws

The body of laws which oversee business and commercial activity. It may encompass such areas as principal and agent; freight and shipping; guarantee; marine, fire, life and accident insurance; bills of exchange and partnership; contracts; food and health regulations; safety laws; privacy rights; copyrights; trademarks; etc.

Civil / Common Law

The body of law that oversees sociality. It is invariably culture specific. It is important to familiarise yourself with these laws, especially as you will be adopting a new environment and culture.

Russia Laws and Customs

Passport checks

You should carry your passport with you at all times. A copy will not be sufficient. Police carry out random checks, especially during periods of heightened security. Failure to produce your passport when asked can lead to a fine.

Visitor registration

You’ll need to register with the local authorities if you’re staying anywhere for more than 7 working days. Your hotel will do this automatically. If you’re staying in a rented or private apartment, it is your host’s responsibility to carry this out but you should check this has happened.

Photography

Photographing any military establishment or site of strategic importance (including airports) is banned. There may not be warning signs in locations where prohibitions are in place. You are likely to be detained for questioning or arrested if you are caught.

You’ll need to get official permission from the Russian aviation authority (in Russian) before using any unmanned aircraft systems (drones) in Russian airspace. You must inform them of the flight route at least 24 hours in advance and keep in regular contact with them before and during the flight. Failure to do so will result in a fine.

IT

Russia’s cybersecurity laws are changing. Restrictions have been placed on some social media platforms, such as LinkedIn and Telegram, and access to other internet sites can be unreliable.

gov.uk

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