Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law significantly increasing government fees for foreign nationals applying for residency and work-related documents.

Under the new legislation, several administrative fees for migrants will rise sharply, according to the official legal information portal, The Caspian Post reports.

The cost of obtaining a Russian passport will increase from 4,200 rubles (about $45) to 50,000 rubles (about $540).

The fee for a temporary residence permit will rise from 1,920 rubles (about $21) to 15,000 rubles (about $160), while the cost of a residence permit will increase from 6,000 rubles (about $65) to 30,000 rubles (about $325).

The law also introduces a new fee of 15,000 rubles (about $160) for employers who hire foreign workers.

At the same time, the legislation provides exemptions for certain groups. These include former citizens of the Soviet Union and their family members taking part in a voluntary resettlement programme, as well as foreign nationals who have signed contracts with the Russian Ministry of Defence.