All foreigners employed in Moscow will have their fingerprints taken if a joint proposal by the capital’s migration body and the Interior Ministry is adopted, according to a City Hall officials.

      The proposal, which has been sent to Russia’s Federal Migration Service, would see the fingerprints of “foreigners and stateless people taken when they receive work permits.” That move was backed by Moscow City Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. Moreover, such a requirement was already passed into law in 2010. Now it is due to come into effect effect at the beginning of 2012.

      Besides, Moscow's officials plan to establish the minimum amount of money, that every foreign worker must have while entering the Russian Federation. There also will be more strict rules for the employers hiring foreigners, which will oblige them to make registration for workers in suitable for living accomodations.

      A further demand foresaw the creation of a database to record all foreigners apprehended without documents.

      The previous system of registering foreigners at their place of residence has led to much ire among expats. Currently, employers can register their foreign workers at their workplace address, without the involvement of their workers’ landlords.

      In their turn, Russians will have to give their fingerprints for gaining Schengen Visa in two years. Since October 13 such procedure must be made for all citizens of North Africa. Then it will be Asia and Middle East's turn. In two years, more than 2,5 thousands consulates of the Schengen Agreement will join that system. 

Sources: RBK Daily The Moscow News RIA Novosti Image: Novoye Delo