Effective 1 March 2026, a new procedure for mandatory psychiatric examinations (MPE) applies to certain categories of workers: an examination is conducted only upon an employer’s referral and only where signs of a mental disorder are identified at a periodic medical check-up. The rule aligns the procedure with current legislation, including Article 6 of the Law of the Russian Federation No. 3185-1 “On Psychiatric Care and Guarantees of Citizens’ Rights in Its Provision.”

Key changes

1. Employer referral is mandatory.
   An examination is carried out by a commission of psychiatrists on the basis of a referral issued by the employer (or an authorised representative). Grounds for referral are signs of a mental disorder identified during the mandatory periodic medical examinations provided for in Article 220 of the Labour Code of the Russian Federation.
2. “State secrets” work removed from the list.
   Activities involving work with information constituting a state secret are excluded from the list of activities requiring MPE.
3. Duplicative norms eliminated; procedure clarified.
   The rules are brought into conformity with Law No. 3185-1 and clarify the pathway: periodic medical exam → if signs are present — employer referral → psychiatric commission.

Practical effect

Previously, all workers in designated categories (e.g., transport, food services, education, etc.) underwent MPE once every five years. The new approach significantly narrows the group actually examined: the procedure becomes targeted and event-driven rather than universally scheduled.

Source: official publication of the act.