The EU may completely ban Schengen visas for Russians: what it means.

The EU is considering the possibility of suspending the issuance of Schengen visas to Russians

According to inkorr.com: Nikita Kondratiev, head of the department of multilateral economic cooperation and special projects of the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation, expressed concern about the possible suspension of Schengen visa issuance to Russian citizens by the countries of the European Union. He reported this in a comment to Russian state media.

Kondratiev's concern is driven by the tightening of the EU's visa policy, particularly the ban on the issuance of multiple entry visas. On November 7, the European Commission banned Russians from obtaining multiple-entry Schengen visas, which could significantly complicate their travels to EU countries.

'There is always a risk, in fact. There are constant tightening processes. Visa issuance timelines are extended, which is expected,' Kondratiev noted.

The European Union argues that these restrictions are necessary to ensure the security of the Schengen area and to prevent the use of visas for Russia's aggressive activities or other harmful actions on the territory of the European Union.

According to the European Commission, in 2024, Russians submitted over 600 thousand applications for Schengen visas, of which more than 200 thousand were for multiple-entry visas. The new restrictions could significantly complicate their travels.

Thus, the European Union is considering the possibility of completely suspending the issuance of Schengen visas to Russians. This decision will have a significant impact on their travel opportunities to EU countries and is driven by the need to ensure security and eliminate potential abuses of visas on the territory of Europe.