The European Union has canceled multiple-entry visas for Russians
The European Commission adopted a decision to introduce stricter visa issuance rules for Russian citizens, taking into account the increased security risks due to the war in Ukraine and the potential use of migration as a weapon.
«Russia's illegal and unprovoked aggressive war against Ukraine continues to pose a serious threat to European security, with heightened risks related to sabotage, disinformation, and drone incursions into the EU», — stated Vice-President for Technological Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, Hennadiy Virkkuonen.
According to European diplomacy chief Kaja Kallas, «Our duty is to protect our citizens. From now on, more stringent rules will apply to Russian citizens applying for visas to travel to the EU. Travel to the EU and free movement within the EU are privileges, not rights».
Russian citizens will no longer be able to obtain multiple-entry visas to an EU member country — they will need to apply for a new visa for each trip, allowing for more thorough screening of applicants and reducing potential security risks.
The decision covers all EU member states and is made within the framework of the Schengen Visa Cooperation to enhance security. Exceptions may be made only for specific cases — independent journalists or human rights defenders will have the right to special considerations.
Previously, the EU had already abolished the simplified visa regime with Russia at the end of 2022 after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Several member countries, including the Baltic states and Poland, introduced even stricter restrictions or a complete ban on entry for Russian citizens.
The decision will take effect soon and serves as a signal that the EU is strengthening border controls in response to security challenges related to the war and the use of migration as a tool of pressure.
