European Union plans to stop issuing multiple-entry tourist visas Russian citizens in most cases. The publication reports this Politico with reference to sources in European structures.
The new rules will be part of a package of measures aimed at further limiting the travel of Russians to the countries of the bloc.
Previously Brussels has already complicated the process of obtaining visas by suspending at the end of 2022 the agreement on a simplified visa regime with Moscow. Now we are talking about reducing the number multiple entries — in fact, about the elimination of the category of visas that allowed Russians to move freely around the world Schengen area for several years.
However, completely ban the entry of Russian citizens European Commission cannot: visa issuance remains national competence. This means that each country is from France to Hungary – has the right to make decisions independently. Some states, including Italy And Spainare still actively issuing tourist visas to Russians.
According to Commissionsin 2024, Russian citizens were issued more 500 thousand Schengen visas – almost twice as much as in 2023, but eight times less than before the start of the conflict. In 2019, Russians received more than four million visas, and then Russia was one of the largest sources of tourist flows to Europe.
Experts note that the new restrictions symbolize transition EU from a policy of isolation to a policy of metered admission: trips to Europe will be possible, but less often, more expensive and only if there are compelling reasons. The decision is expected to be approved this week and will take effect immediately.
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