MOSCOW, November 7 (RAPSI) – Lawmaker Oleg Nilov (A Just Russia) has drafted a law on lifelong entry ban for foreigners guilty of serious crime, Izvestia newspaper writes on Friday.

Russia’s immigration law was streamlined and the liability for violating it was tightened after several high-profile crimes were committed by immigrants.

In particular, the amendments introduced a “Schengen format” for the duration of stay for visa-free immigrants (up to 90 days every six months), because the previous format (no longer than three consecutive months) allowed foreigners to stay in Russia continuously, leaving the country for only a day to start a new three-month period. Violations of the new procedure are punishable by fines and a three-year entry ban.

The State Duma is considering a bill to introduce a 10-year ban for serious violations of the immigration regulations.

Nilov has proposed further tightening the entry rules for foreigners who committed crimes or administrative offences in Russia.

According to the newspaper, a lifelong ban could be imposed on foreigners convicted for drug trafficking; sex crimes; crimes against the life and health of individuals: murder, torture, intent to commit grave bodily harm; kidnapping; crimes involving property such as theft, fraud, robbery, armed robbery or extortion; crimes against public safety; crimes against constitutional law and national security; and crimes against the peace and security of mankind.

Foreigners guilty of other crimes will be banned from entering Russia for 10 years. A 10-year ban will also be imposed on those who have been held administratively liable three times.