The European Union is tightening its visa rules for Russian citizens amid concerns the bloc is considering “visa sabotage and potential abuse”.
Multiple-entry visas will no longer be issued, with applicants having to apply for a new visa each time they travel to the EU.
In a statement released by the European Commission, they said the new rules aim to protect public policy as well as security.
“It’s hard to justify starting a war and expecting it to escalate in Europe,” EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said on Twitter.
“The EU is tightening visa rules for Russian citizens amid continued drone disruptions and sabotage on European soil. Traveling to the EU is a privilege, not a given.”
However, there are set to be a limited number of exceptions for dissidents, independent journalists and human rights defenders.
How many Russian visas are currently being issued?
A European Commission spokesman said that over the past few years, about 500,000 visas have been issued to Russian citizens, down from about 4 million.
This number has led to criticism in Eastern European countries that despite Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, wealthy individuals are still able to vacation in Europe.
Recently freedom of movement for Russian diplomats and consular officials, including staff members, was restricted due to fears of espionage and disinformation.
From January 2026, they will all be required to register any journey made between EU member states at least 24 hours before their intended destination and all transit countries.
Edited by: Zack Crellin