EU Commission Proposes Suspending Easy Travel For Russian Citizens Into Europe
The European Commission is mulling making it much more difficult for Russian citizens to travel into Europe as Russian aggression in Ukraine continues to be at the forefront of EU politicians’ minds.
“Russian citizens should not have easy access to the EU. To be a tourist in the EU is not a fundamental right,” the EC said, proposing the suspension of the EU Visa Facilitation Agreement.
“Russian citizens will no longer enjoy privileged access to the EU and face a lengthier, more expensive and more difficult visa application process. We also propose to not recognise Russian passports issued in occupied regions.”
“Visa facilitation is a token of trust, which Russia’s war of aggression has completely shattered. There can be no business as usual with Russia.”
“The EU’s visa policy is a mark of trust – a trust that Russia has completely undermined with its unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine. As long as Russia’s military aggression towards an EU candidate country lasts, Russian citizens cannot enjoy travel facilitations to Europe. Once again, the EU is showing its unwavering unity in its response to Russia’s military aggression,” Vice-President for Promoting Our European Way of Life, Margaritis Schinas said.
In practice, Russian applicants will face:
- A higher visa fee: The visa fee will increase from €35 to €80 for all applicants.
- Increased processing time: The standard deadline for consulates to take a decision on visa applications will increase from 10 to 15 days. This period may be extended up to a maximum of 45 days in individual cases, when further scrutiny of the application is needed.
- More restrictive rules on multiple-entry visas: Applicants will no longer have easy access to visas valid for multiple entries to the Schengen area.
- A longer list of supporting documents: Applicants will have to submit the full list of documentary evidence when applying for a visa. They will no longer benefit from the simplified list included in the Visa Facilitation Agreement.
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