Russian emigration assistance site reports spike in enquiries amid fears of new mobilisation

Daily requests for assistance emigrating from Russia have risen dramatically since the spring, the relocation support project Relokatz has reported, as growing numbers of citizens look to leave the country before autumn amid fears of a new wave of mobilisation.

The average number of daily enquiries the service receives has grown from around 70 to 120 since April, roughly a 1.7-fold increase, according to independent outlet Ostorozhno, Novosti.

Alexandra Nazarova, Relokat’s editor-in-chief, said interest in leaving Russia began climbing in April, driven by internet restrictions and a growing sense that daily life was becoming less predictable. Enquiries have continued rising through the summer.

Many people are now approaching the service with urgent, specific requests: help choosing a country, gathering the necessary documents, and leaving before autumn begins, Nazarova said. Most are not looking for a short-term option for a few months, she added, but for a country where they can settle for the long term.

Both men and women are seeking consultations, with people under 40 making up the bulk of enquiries, and especially those between 18 and 35. The service has also seen a rise in enquiries from young people who have just turned 18 or will soon, as well as from parents considering sending their children to study abroad.

Those seeking help cite a range of motivations, including the tense political climate, fear of mobilisation, general exhaustion with life in Russia, and a desire to have a “backup plan” in place. Serbia, Armenia and Georgia are the most popular destinations.