ABSTRACT
Chinese migration to Russia has a chequered history. The continuing Chinese presence in Russia is a natural phenomenon that will apparently continue in the nearest future. Throughout its history, Chinese migration to Russia was not a peculiar case in the government’s minorities policy, but was always strongly influenced by the mainstream of these policies. The Law of Citizenship approved on 10 February 1864 stipulated that any foreigner had equal rights with Russians, and was allowed to acquire Russian citizenship after five years of permanent residence. Anti-Chinese sentiments were promptly employed by nationalistic parties and groups, which made the anti-Chinese movement a card in political games. Over two centuries, Chinese migration to Russia has represented a natural flux of populace between neigbouring countries. Geographical proximity eases the movement of migrants, and they are not bound to a particular place and occupation.
