MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree making it easier for nationals of Belarus, Kazakhstan and Moldova to become Russian citizens, with the relevant document being published on the official portal of legal information.

According to the decree, citizens of Belarus who are capable and have reached the age of 18 will be able to apply for Russian citizenship regardless of the length of their stay in Russia from the moment of obtaining a residence permit. They also will not be tested on their knowledge of the Russian language, history and the basics of the country's legislation.

The 5-year residence period and knowledge of the history and legislation of Russia will also no longer be mandatory for citizens of Kazakhstan and Moldova. However, they will still need to have a basic knowledge of the Russian language.