MOSCOW, July 31 (RAPSI) - The retirement age for public officials will be raised starting January 1, 2016, RIA Novosti reported on Friday, citing Labor Minister Maxim Topilin.

A bill, introduced by the Labor Ministry, changes the terms of the length-of-service pension in addition to the monthly retirement pension for municipal officials and civil servants, as well as the terms for the monthly retirement pension for public officials (including ministers, parliament members and senators) at the federal, regional and municipal levels.

Therefore, the age at which public officials may apply for length-of-service pension will be increased to 65 years and only if they have served for at least 20 years (previously15 years). 

In addition to the retirement age, the maximum age for civil service will be increased from 60 to 65.

The ministry representatives state that the bill also stipulates that the non-contributory part of the retirement pension will not be available until 65 years (if it was approved before the bill is enforced, it will not be paid) for positions with a high or medium income.