Russia Expands Military Deferments for IT Specialists Under New Rules
Russia's Digital Development Ministry has proposed new rules for military deferments aimed at IT specialists. The changes will widen the list of qualifying degrees and set clearer requirements for both employees and employers.
The updated regulations will not take effect during the upcoming autumn conscription cycle. The list of IT specialisations eligible for deferment will now include master's degrees in Radio Physics and Statistics, as well as a bachelor's degree in Nuclear Physics and Technologies. Professionals who have finished their studies but have not yet received their diploma may also qualify.
To be eligible, IT specialists must be Russian citizens aged 18 to 30. They need a higher education degree in an approved field and must work full-time under an employment contract. Those with foreign qualifications will have to provide proof of their recognition in Russia.
Employers must hold valid accreditation and submit employee data no later than 50 days before the conscription date. The company's list must include job titles for each IT specialist. Employees must have worked at the accredited firm for at least 11 months in the year before conscription, unless hired within a year of graduating. The proposed amendments outline stricter criteria for both IT workers and their employers. Accredited companies will need to verify and submit employee details well in advance. The changes aim to streamline the deferment process while expanding the range of eligible qualifications.
