EU Introduces Stricter Visa Measures for Russian Nationals

The European Union has announced a new visa framework that will require Russian nationals to apply for a fresh visa each time they intend to travel to any of the 27 member states. The move, Brussels said, is designed to allow closer and more frequent scrutiny of Russian applicants amid ongoing security concerns linked to the war in Ukraine.

Under the updated rules, multi-entry visas previously granted to Russian citizens will no longer be automatically renewed. Instead, each travel request will undergo a full evaluation process to assess potential risks. Exceptions will, however, be made for verified cases involving independent journalists, human rights activists, and individuals with humanitarian needs.

EU officials stated that the latest decision follows months of lobbying by several member states calling for tougher travel restrictions on ordinary Russian citizens. They argue that tourism and leisure trips should not continue as usual while Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine persists.

Brussels noted that visa approvals for Russian nationals have fallen sharply since 2022, from more than four million annually before the war to around half a million last year. However, data also indicates a recent uptick in applications, particularly from countries such as France, Spain, and Italy, which remain popular tourist destinations for Russians.

Critics of the new rules, including Russian opposition figures in exile, warn that isolating Russian citizens could reinforce Kremlin propaganda portraying Europe as hostile to all Russians.

They have urged the EU to continue distinguishing between the government and the broader Russian population, focusing sanctions and restrictions instead on those close to President Vladimir Putin

The European Commission is expected to publish further guidelines to member states on implementing the new system in the coming weeks.