Foreigners Now Must Get Tested For Drugs

[CHIMO]

Source: Updated Moscow Time

Expatriates beware: You now have to prove that you aren't a drug addict to work in Russia.

A little-noticed regulation came into effect at the start of this year that requires foreigners who work or intend to work here to have their blood tested for traces of drugs. Evidence of the drugs is reason for authorities to refuse to issue a work permit.

The regulation indicates that authorities want to know whether a foreigner is addicted to hard drugs such as cocaine or heroin, not marijuana or hashish.

"On receiving a work permit, the employer must present medical certificates confirming the absence in the employee of illnesses associated with drug addicts," the regulation says.



Read more: http://www.themoscowtimes.com/stories/2007/03/23/002.html

[John Q. Citizen]

1. Sounds like aids screening?

[DBoon]

2. Maybe they want samples of blood for other purposes

Keeping a DNA database of foreigners to better track them?

:tinfoilhat:

[donsu]

3. Russia has a huge problem with alcohol and heroin

nt