Russia’s Interior Ministry has proposed exempting certain foreign workers from mandatory exams in the Russian language, Russian history and the basics of Russian law to attract investment and accelerate economic development in designated territories.

Under the proposal, foreign nationals who hold work permits and are employed in priority development areas (PDAs) could be allowed to work without taking the exams, according to Podrobno.uz.

The ministry said the initiative is intended to encourage investment and speed up economic growth in these territories.

Currently, exemptions apply to highly qualified foreign specialists, certain foreign journalists and migrants working under permits issued within established quotas.

Priority development areas operate in Russian single-industry towns and closed cities. Other 16 territories have been established in the Russian Far East, while two are located in the Arctic region.