Evolution of state regulation of external migration processes in the Russian state in the IX–XVII centuries

The article is devoted to the peculiarities of the evolution of the mechanism of legal regulation of the foreign citizens’ status in the Russian state in IX-XVII centuries. The changes in the legal regulation of the regime of stay and residence of foreigners throughout the history of the national statehood from Ancient Rus’ to the Tsardom of Muscovy of XVII century are analyzed in article. The reasons for the close attention to foreigners from the Russian authorities side, the introduction of tough measures against them as well as strict regulation of the right of entry, exit and stay of foreign citizens on the territory of Russia are revealed. Not only the set of restrictive measures implemented to foreigners by the authorities and legislative guarantees of their legal protection but the significance that the service and trade activities of foreigners had in the life of the country are considered in the article.