Russia records record emigration searches and imposes new restrictions on overseas critics

In June 2026, Russian internet users searched for ways to leave the country at unprecedented levels. Queries such as “where to go without a visa,” “how long to get a passport,” and “exit permit” hit all‑time highs, with “passport cost” asked 26,339 times – a 221% jump from November 2024 – and visa‑free leave requests up 118% from February 2025.

The surge coincided with a fuel crisis, Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian cities, and rumors of a new mobilization. Moscow residents reported difficulties obtaining passports due to staff shortages, and the FSB’s border service listed 8.9 million travel bans as of 1 January 2026, a 41.5% increase year‑on‑year. The State Duma expanded the pool of people with criminal records eligible for defence contracts, and the National Guard updated civil‑defence rules for possible mobilization and martial‑law periods.

At the same time, the State Duma approved legislation that sharply limits the rights of Russians living abroad who are labeled critics or “foreign agents.” The law removes access to consular services, blocks vehicle registration and real‑estate transactions, and allows frozen bank accounts to be used for court costs and damages. More than ten new restrictions will be listed in a public register, a move condemned by human‑rights groups as creating a “civil death” for dissenters.