Russian court orders Stalmost PJSC to pay over 550,000 rubles for unpaid foreign worker recruitment

A Russian court has ordered Stalmost PJSC to pay over 550,000 rubles to a recruitment agency after failing to settle an invoice for foreign workers. The Arbitration Court of Primorsky Krai ruled in favour of Informatsionno-Kadrovaya Sluzhba LLC, confirming debts, interest, and legal penalties.

The dispute began after the company hired 30 Indian workers but refused to pay the agreed fee for their recruitment.

On October 17, 2024, Stalmost PJSC signed a contract with Informatsionno-Kadrovaya Sluzhba LLC to recruit qualified foreign staff. The agency was to charge 15,000 rubles for each successfully placed candidate.

The recruitment firm selected 30 Indian citizens across three specialties. Stalmost PJSC approved all candidates, and each worker received a job offer. Following this, the agency issued an invoice for 450,000 rubles—but the company never paid. The court examined the case and ruled that the debt was lawful. It also confirmed interest of 48,500 rubles, accrued from February 21 to September 18, 2025. Additionally, Stalmost PJSC must cover 48,468.10 rubles in penalties and 29,923 rubles for state legal fees. The total amount due now exceeds 576,000 rubles. The company retains the right to appeal the decision through standard legal procedures.

The ruling requires Stalmost PJSC to settle the full sum, including the original debt, interest, and additional costs. The case highlights the financial risks of unpaid recruitment contracts. Any appeal must follow the established legal process.