Kyrgyzstan proposes Russian language testing at home for migrant children

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan (MNTV) — Children of Kyrgyz labor migrants may soon be able to take their mandatory Russian language proficiency tests at home before enrolling in Russian schools, under a new proposal by Kyrgyz authorities.

Deputy Foreign Minister Almaz Imangaziyev floated the idea during a meeting with Russian Ambassador Sergey Vakunov.

According to Fergana news agency, the two officials also discussed improving pre-departure procedures for Kyrgyz migrants, including medical exams, fingerprinting, and biometric data collection — all of which Bishkek hopes to carry out domestically to reduce burdens once migrants arrive in Russia.

A key focus of the talks was the language requirement introduced by Moscow on April 1, 2025. Under the law, foreign children must pass a Russian language exam before they can enroll in school. The assessment is tailored to age: oral tests for incoming first graders, and oral-plus-written exams for older students.

Kyrgyz officials believe allowing children to sit for these tests in Kyrgyzstan itself could ease pressure on families and streamline the enrollment process.

They also raised concerns about Russia’s migration infrastructure, calling for expanded facilities to reduce long queues and delays, as well as improved coordination between Kyrgyz consular staff and Russian migration services.

The two sides pledged to work together to make migration smoother for Kyrgyz citizens and to improve educational and administrative procedures.

Meanwhile, Russian authorities have already begun enforcing the new language testing system. In May, Rosobrnadzor reported that out of 1,762 applicants, only 335 were cleared to take the test — with 81% disqualified during document verification.

The most frequent issues included missing paperwork, lack of school seats, and false information submitted by applicants. Of the 44 students who took the exam by the time of reporting, 61% passed.