Short answers, pulled from the story.
Peter I began his reign in 1682, marking the start of a new era for immigration to Russia. Catherine II ascended to power in 1762 and accelerated these efforts significantly until the October Revolution in 1917.
Specific regions like Novorossiya, Slavo-Serbia, Volga, and Bessarabia were designated for resettlement of immigrants. These areas served as focal points for attracting foreign populations to expand the empire's borders and economy.
Obtaining citizenship requires five years of residence plus passing exams in language, civics, and history. The Main Directorate for Migration Affairs of the Ministry of Internal Affairs regulates all immigration matters.
Recent immigrants primarily originate from former Soviet republics including Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine, Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. Central Asians formed the most numerous group among foreign residents as of the 2nd of May 2022.
In 2006, the Russian government introduced the Program for the return of compatriots to Russia. This initiative evolved into permanent law by 2012 with clear eligibility criteria based on ancestry.