Many Russians who left the country after February 24, 2022, are now considering the possibility of returning, as reported by Bloomberg. Their return has become a significant factor in Russia's economic growth, adding from one-fifth to one-third to the 3.6% overall annual economic growth in 2023.
The returning workers constitute only 0.3% of the total labor force of the country, which has a negligible impact on reducing the labor shortage. However, their contribution to the economy is significant, according to the agency. This is because highly skilled professionals are returning, who are receiving more attractive offers in Russia than abroad.
Another reason for returning is the difficulties in extending their residence permits abroad, challenges with money transfers, and a limited number of job opportunities.
In the summer of 2023, the Kremlin stated that half of those who left after February 24 had already returned. This assertion is supported by statistics on popular countries where Russians emigrated, as well as data from companies specializing in relocation assistance. For instance, the company "Finion" reported that about 40-45% of its clients who left Russia have returned.
Estimates of the number of emigrants vary. According to Alfa-Bank data, in 2022, Russia lost about 1.5% of its workforce, which amounts to around 1.1 million people. Some went to Europe, while others preferred the UAE, Thailand, Indonesia, and neighboring countries.
In Turkey, the number of Russian citizens who obtained short-term residence permits decreased from 132,000 in 2022 to 60,000 in 2023. In Georgia, the number of Russians leaving Russia increased sixfold, reaching 35.3 thousand people, while arrivals were 16% fewer. At the end of 2022, Kazakhstan registered the arrival of 146 thousand Russians, but a year later, fewer than 80 thousand remained in the country.
The process of returning will continue, states Bloomberg. A study by the European University in Florence shows that 41% of Russian emigrants, and in some countries only 16%, consider their status stable or partly stable. 25% reported instances of discrimination by local residents and institutions.
Source: Bloomberg