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  • 15 Jul 2021 4:00 AM | Deleted user

    Dear CERBA Members and Partners,

    According to the information kindly provided by CERBA Corporate Member – Intermark Relocation, please be informed that the governmental Operational staff for the prevention of importing and spreading of the new coronavirus infection has decided to resume regular air traffic with France and Czech Republic.

    The flights will resume effective 24 July 2021.

    Which document introduces the changes?

    The decision of the Operational staff for the prevention of importing and spreading of the new coronavirus infection (available in Russian at the following link http://government.ru/news/42765/)

    Who is affected?

    Russian and foreign citizens who travel from Russia to the listed countries or vice versa.

    Intermark comment

    We expect that France and Czech Republic will also be “green listed”, i.e. included in the list of countries exempted from entry restrictions for citizens and permanent residents who travel by direct flights from such countries.

    _____________________________

    You can read an original version here.

  • 06 Jul 2021 9:00 AM | Deleted user

    Dear CERBA Members and Partners,

    According to the information kindly provided by CERBA Corporate Member – Intermark Relocation, please be informed that on 1 July 2021 the President of Russia signed a law which introduces obligatory fingerprinting and medical examination for foreign nationals who arrive in Russia for work purposes or stay in Russia for other purposes longer than 90 days.

    The changes will take effect on 29 December 2021.

    Which law introduces the changes?

    Federal law No. 274-FZ of 1 July 2021

    What are the changes?

    1. The law introduces the obligatory fingerprinting and photographing procedure for the following foreigners:

    • Those who enter Russia for the purpose of work
    • Those who enter Russia for other purposes and stay longer than 90 days

    Deadlines are as follows:

    • HQS – upon collection of work permit
    • Patent holders – upon filing application for patent
    • Other employees, including EAEU nationals and standard WP holders – within 30 days from entry
    • Those who enter for non-work purposes for longer than 90 days – within 90 days from entry

    Specifics of procedure:

    • Foreigners undergo it only once and receive a confirmation document upon passing it
    • Medical check-up certificates are required for the process

    2. The law introduces obligation of the above-mentioned categories to pass a medical check-up:

    • Upon entry for work purposes – within 30 days from entry
    • Upon entry for longer than 90 days – within 90 days from entry
    • Repeated check-up upon expiry of previously received certificates – within 30 days from expiry

    NB! The medical check-up includes tests for narcomania, HIV and a number of infectious diseases included in the list approved by the Ministry of Health.

    Specifics of procedure:

    • Check-up is conducted by medical institutions located in Russia
    • The list of authorised medical institutions is to be approved by authorities in each Russian region
    • The validity period of issued certificates is to be approved by the Ministry of Health

    3. The law exempts the following foreign nationals from passing fingerprinting, photographing and medical check-up:

    • citizens of Belarus
    • children under 6 years old
    • employees of intergovernmental organisations, employees of foreign diplomatic missions on the basis of reciprocity and their family members

    4. In case a foreign national fails to attend fingerprinting or medical check-up, their allowed term of stay will be reduced.

    In case narcomania or listed infectious diseases are detected, the term of stay will be reduced and additionally the authority can decide that the foreigner’s stay in Russia is undesirable.

    Intermark comments

    Once the law takes effect, all foreign employees, both visa-required and visa-free, HQS and EAEU nationals included, will become subject to the fingerprinting procedure requirement and will have to occasionally pass medical check-ups (the frequency will depend on the validity period of issued certificates).

    Dependents who plan to stay in Russia longer than 90 days continuously will also fall under these new requirements.

    In our estimation the law will make immigration cases more complex with foreign nationals becoming more involved in the process (necessity of in-person visits to authorities and clinics). In addition, difficulties with interpreting the law and putting it into practice might take place at the beginning. Specifically, the law does not specify course of action for those foreign employees who will be staying in Russia at the moment of its entry into force.

    We will be closely monitoring official comments from state authorities as well as adoption of sub-laws elaborating on these new requirements.

    Who is affected?

    Foreign nationals who enter Russia for the purpose of work or enter for other purposes and stay longer than 90 days.

    _____________________________

    You can read an original version here.

  • 01 Jul 2021 7:00 AM | Deleted user

    Dear CERBA Members,

    Happy Canada Day!

    Below is the link to the Canada Day address by H.E. Alison LeClaire, Canadian Ambassador to Russia & Armenia, Ambassador Designate to Uzbekistan.

    Canada Day Address by H.E. Alison LeClaire

    You can also check out the latest CERBA "ICE/BREAKERS" podcasts:

    EPISODE 1: Breaking the Ice with Stockwell Day

    EPISODE 2: East by Far East with Ilya Lagutenko

    EPISODE 3: Diplomacy of Canada-Eurasia collaboration with H.E. Alison LeClaire

    EPISODE 4: Hermetic Art of Kazakhstan with Frank Albo

  • 01 Jul 2021 4:00 AM | Deleted user

    Dear CERBA Members and Partners,

    According to the information kindly provided by CERBA Corporate Member – Intermark Relocation, please be informed that the Russian government has officially lifted restrictions on entry for citizens and permanent residents of Belgium, Bulgaria, Jordan, Ireland, Italy, Cyprus, North Macedonia and USA as per the decree No. 1745-r dated 28.06.2021.

    As it was reported earlier, Russia resumed regular passenger flights from these countries effective 28 June 2021.

    In addition, the "green list" has been supplemented with Lichtenstein (has no airports of its own) and China (renewal of regular flights not yet announced).

    This is to remind you that nationals and permanent residents of the above mentioned countries are allowed through the Russian border if they take a direct flight from any "green list" country.

    _____________________________

    You can read an original version here.

  • 29 Jun 2021 1:00 PM | Vera Dedyulya (Administrator)


    Saskatoon, SK, June 29, 2021 – The Saskatchewan Industrial and Mining Suppliers Association (SIMSA) commissioned the development of a custom carbon calculator for the mining, energy and industrial supply chain in Saskatchewan—helping lead the charge on carbon reduction.

    The calculator allows suppliers to accurately assess their current carbon emissions levels and compare against others. From there, they can develop solutions to reduce their carbon output and take effective steps to make those reductions a reality. The calculator allows for up to 10 separate locations to be evaluated at once, combining those calculations into one total output. This could include calculating carbon emissions by different buildings, street addresses, or even by segments within a building.

    SIMSA aptly recognized industry’s changing attitudes and progressive views towards carbon emissions and—together with some of its key partners—took active steps to be part of the solution.

    “Carbon reduction is a top priority for resource producers and their supply chain,” says Eric Anderson, SIMSA’s Executive Director. “As a 200-plus member organization, we feel that we’re perfectly positioned to help effect the right kinds of changes and innovations that can lead our members on the path to a net zero world.”

    Unveiled at a SIMSA information session, the carbon calculator was created exclusively for SIMSA members and available at no cost to them. It was developed by KPMG, with financial support from Western Economic Diversification Canada, in consultation with BHP, Cameco, Nutrien and TC Energy to deliver SIMSA members’ scope 1 and 2 emissions.

    In addition to the carbon calculator, SIMSA will be developing an ‘Industrial Concierge’ position within its organization. The mandate of this role will be to help members source carbon reduction information, funding and best practices, while also working to digitize the supply chain and, most importantly, acting as a conduit between suppliers and resource producers. This position has financial support from the International Minerals Innovation Institute (IMII). The organization is hoping to fill this role by October 2021.

    “We believe Saskatchewan companies are world class and that we are here to be a valued resource in supporting that position,” says Anderson. “These initiatives are important for continuing to support the evolving needs of these leading, innovative businesses.”

    https://simsa.ca/news/simsa-releases-custom-carbon-calculator/

  • 29 Jun 2021 9:00 AM | Deleted user

    Dear CERBA Members and Partners,

    We are happy to introduce the latest information on COVID-19 restrictions in Russia and CIS countries for easy navigation. The material is prepared by CERBA Corporate Member – Intermark Relocation. To learn more about COVID-19 restriction update in each country, please click the respective link below.


     RUSSIA

    Russia has closed its borders for most foreign citizens. The exception applies to some categories of foreign citizens as well as to citizens and permanent residents of "approved countries". In Moscow and other cities quarantine restrictions are introduced.

    Learn More
     

     ARMENIA

    Air and land borders are open for foreign citizens in Armenia. To enter it is necessary to comply with certain regulations. The government has not implemented any significant quarantine requirements in the country. 

    Learn More
     

     AZERBAIJAN
    As a general rule, Azerbaijan’s borders are closed for entry. However, lately the government has simplified the entry procedure for foreign citizens of some countries. The quarantine regime is in effect till August 1. A number of restrictions imposed under the quarantine have been cancelled.
    Learn More
     

     BELARUS

    Foreign citizens are allowed to cross Belarus borders via air. Entry of foreign nationals and stateless persons via land borders is temporarily prohibited. No particular coronavirus-related restrictions have been introduced in the country. 

    Learn More
     

     GEORGIA
    The ban on air traffic has been lifted in Georgia. Land borders are open. To enter the country foreign citizens have to comply with the rules introduced by the government. In the country the majority of the quarantine restrictions have been lifted, however, the curfew is still in effect.
    Learn More
     

     KAZAKHSTAN

    Generally, foreign citizens are allowed to enter Kazakhstan based on the permission from the Interagency Committee except for certain categories as well as for citizens of countries with which the government has resumed air traffic. Restrictive measures are in effect across Kazakhstan; the implemented restrictions differ across regions.

    Learn More
     

     KYRGYZSTAN
    There is no ban on entry of foreign citizens in Kyrgyzstan. Epidemiological regulations should be observed to enter the country. Light restrictive quarantine measures have been introduced by the government.
    Learn More
     

     MOLDOVA

    Foreigners and stateless citizens are allowed to enter Moldova based on the regulations introduced by the government. The quarantine restrictions are in effect across the country; restrictive measures may differ across regions.

    Learn More
     

     UKRAINE
    Ukrainian borders are open for foreign citizens. To enter it is necessary to comply with certain regulations. The government had extended the adaptive quarantine regime till the end of August. All Ukrainian regions are divided in several zones according to COVID-19 spread and prevalence rate: green, yellow, orange and red.
    Learn More
     

     UZBEKISTAN
    Foreign nationals can enter and exit Uzbekistan by air, railway and road transport in compliance with quarantine and sanitary rules. The sanitary and hygienic control is maintained. People are required to follow restrictive measures in the country.
    Learn More

    _____________________________

    You can read an original version here.

  • 24 Jun 2021 2:00 AM | Deleted user

    Global law firm Dentons received nine awards at the 2021 Women in Business Law Awards Europe, organized by the Euromoney Legal Media Group, including the headline award for "Women in Business Law – International Firm of the Year" and firmwide awards for "Gender Diversity – International Firm of the Year" and "Talent Management – International Firm of the Year". Dentons was also recognized as Law Firm of the Year for women’s advancement in Central Europe, Russia and Germany.

    The Women in Business Law Awards research team said of Dentons’ win: "Dentons is a clear leader in diversity and inclusion initiatives that promote women in the practice of law. The firm is amongst the most progressive in terms of developing gender diversity policies, such as their women in legal webinar series, allyship training program, and women’s advancement resources. Dentons is also highly focused on developing their talent base, by having a top shelf women’s advancement policy and leadership development programs. The firm has been seeing active and positive results from their initiatives, with growth in female representation in the firm, from associates to partners. This is well on display with the firm’s practice area leaders."

    Nieves Briz, Barcelona Managing Partner at Dentons, received the Outstanding Achievement Lawyer of the Year award for her lifetime contribution to as a role model and champion of women in the legal profession. In addition to her role as a partner in the Corporate and M&A group, she is a member of Dentons’ Global Inclusion and Diversity Committee and the Europe Women’s Advancement Committee. Likewise, since 2017 she has been a member of the Board of Directors of International Women’s Forum (IWF) Spain, where she served as President in the period 2019-2021. She was recently named among the Top 100 Women Leaders in Spain 2020 by Iberian Lawyer.

    Anita Horváth, Co-head of the Europe Energy practice and Co-head of the Corporate and M&A group in Budapest, was awarded Energy, Natural Resources, & Mining Lawyer of the Year. A premier lawyer for domestic and cross-border matters in the energy sector, she has recently advised on complex regulatory matters related to the EU’s Clean Energy Package, photovoltaic power plants, and public procurement for charging stations. She is also a founding member of the Women in Energy Association.

    Séverine Hotellier, France Managing Partner and Head of the Insurance practice in Paris, won the award for Insurance and Reinsurance Lawyer of the Year. An established leader in insurance litigation, she advises insurers as well as corporate clients on high-stakes claims management and disputes as well as sector-focused technical, financial and legal issues.

    The annual Women in Business Law Awards recognize law firms which are taking a leading role in advancing diversity and inclusion in the legal profession in Europe. They also recognize the top women lawyers providing exemplary services and driving success for their practices. Winners are selected by senior Euromoney Legal Media Group editorial staff following an extensive research and peer review.

    About Dentons

    Dentons is the world's largest law firm, connecting top-tier talent to the world's challenges and opportunities with 20,000 professionals including 12,000 lawyers, in more than 200 locations, in more than 80 countries. Dentons' polycentric and purpose-driven approach, commitment to inclusion and diversity, and award-winning client service challenge the status quo to advance client interests. www.dentons.com

    _____________________________

    You can read an original version here.

  • 16 Jun 2021 5:30 AM | Deleted user

    Dear CERBA Members and Partners,

    According to the information kindly provided by CERBA Corporate Member – Intermark Relocation, please be informed that the suspension of terms for stay of foreigners in Russia and duration terms for some of their documents has been prolonged, as prescribed by newly published decree by the president of Russia No. 364 dated June 15, 2021.

    Full text of the decree is available at the following link (in Russian).

    What are the changes?

    Starting from June 16 and until 90 days after resuming regular transport communication  (List of countries and dates when the restrictions for them are lifted is approved by the Russian government in the relevant decree) with the foreign citizen’s country of citizenship/residence the following terms are suspended:

    – Permitted terms of stay in Russia

    – Terms of valid migration registration (i.e. notification on arrival of foreign citizen at the place of stay)

    – Terms for temporary / permanent residence permit and highly qualified specialist’s work permit termination in case if foreign citizen stays outside of Russia for more than 6 months

    – Duration terms for the following documents:

    • visa
    • migration card
    • temporary/permanent residence permit in case if foreign citizen stays outside of Russia

    From June 16 until September 30, 2021 inclusive:

    – no decisions are made on expulsion / deportation / ban on entry in relation to foreign citizens who are in the territory of the Russian Federation

    – foreign citizens who arrived in Russia before March 15, 2020 and are illegally in the country as of June 16, 2021, have the right to apply to state authorities to settle their legal status or to leave the Russian Federation

    From June 16 until December 31, 2021 inclusive:

    – duration terms are suspended for:

    • temporary or permanent residing of foreign citizens in the Russian territory
    • registration at the place of stay (not the same as "migration registration/notification on arrival" – this one is for holders of temporary/permanent residence permit)
    • documents on refugee or temporary asylum status

    – citizens of the EAEU countries can conclude labor or civil law contracts without taking into account their purpose of entering the Russian Federation (as stated in their migration cards)

    – visa-free foreign citizens have the right to issue (re-issue) a work patent without taking into account the period of application and their purpose of entry into the Russian Federation

    – employers (companies) with a corporate work permit have the right to apply for an extension / issuance of personal work permits without taking into account the purpose of the foreigner workers’ entry into the Russian Federation

    – work permits / patents issued during the above period, labor or civil contracts concluded during the above period are to remain valid in accordance with the terms specified in them

    Intermark comment

    This extension of the "migration amnesty" is unique in that for the first time it lacks a clear end to the suspension of periods of stay, as well as the duration terms of visas and migration cards. Now it is even more important follow the official reports on the resumption of regular transport communication with certain countries. This should be helped by the publication of a list of countries approved by the Government of the Russian Federation, in which the dates for lifting the restrictions will be clearly stated.

    Traditionally, we would also like to remind that the "migration amnesty" does not cancel the obligation to submit migration notifications, as well as to do migration registration upon arrival of foreigner citizen in the Russian Federation or at a new place of stay, or when the information contained in the migration registration changes.

    _____________________________

    You can read an original version here.

  • 11 Jun 2021 2:00 AM | Deleted user

    Gowling WLG is recognized in the 2022 edition of the Best Lawyers™ in Russia with 15 rankings across multiple practice areas.

    The experienced intellectual property practitioners in Gowling WLG’s Moscow office offer reliable, customized and comprehensive service to a global clientele. They continuously provide strategic advice in all aspects of IP law throughout Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).

    This year, the below Gowling WLG professionals have been recognized in seven key practice areas in Russia. Notably, partner Yulia Yarnykh has also been recognized as "Lawyer of the Year" in Media Law – an accolade reserved for lawyers who receive the highest overall peer feedback rating in their region and practice area.

    Entertainment Law

    Yulia Yarnykh

    Information Technology

    Alexander Christophoroff

    Intellectual Property

    Maria Aronikova

    David Aylen

    Alexander Christophoroff

    Marina Drel

    Vladislav Ugryumov

    Yulia Yarnykh

    Alexander Dovgalyuk

    Life Sciences

    Vladislav Ugryumov

    Litigation

    David Aylen

    Alexander Christophoroff

    Marina Drel

    Media Law

    Yulia Yarnykh (Lawyer of the Year)

    Telecommunications

    Alexander Christophoroff

    View the complete list of Best Lawyers in Russia for 2022.

    ABOUT BEST LAWYERS

    Best Lawyers is an international series of guides that publishes annual listings of the leading lawyers in over 70 countries. Recognition is based entirely on an extensive peer-review process, with lawyers rating the professional abilities of colleagues within their area of practice.

    ABOUT OUR IP GROUP

    Gowling WLG is a full-service firm comprising 1,500 professionals with strength across all areas of business law and litigation. With leading IP practices in Canada, China, the UAE, the UK and Europe, Russia and Singapore, and a network of trusted agents worldwide, we help IP owners overcome complex obstacles and optimize new opportunities – wherever business takes them. The experienced intellectual property practitioners in Gowling WLG’s Moscow office offer reliable, customized and comprehensive service to a global clientele. They continuously provide strategic advice in all aspects of IP law throughout Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Learn more about our global IP team

  • 07 Jun 2021 2:00 AM | Deleted user

    Dear CERBA Members and Partners,

    At the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2021, on June 4, Nathan Hunt, CERBA Moscow Chairman, took part in the panel discussion "Russia-North America"; on June 5, H.E. Alison LeClaire, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Embassy of Canada in the Russian Federation, took part in the panel discussion "Sustainable Development of Northern Territories and Indigenous Communities", and in the Presentation of the Goals and Programme of the Chairmanship of the Russian Federation in the Arctic Council in 2021–2023 on June 4.

    A recording of the "Russia-North America" panel discussion is available HERE.

    A recording of the "Sustainable Development of Northern Territories and Indigenous Communities" panel discussion is available HERE.

    A recording of the Presentation of the Goals and Programme of the Chairmanship of the Russian Federation in the Arctic Council in 2021–2023 is available HERE.