Notable visa decision from 11 countries

Several countries in Europe are viewing the increase in the number of tourists arriving from Russia with concern during this period as the war in Ukraine continues. Poland, Sweden, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, and Iceland have called for increased restrictions on Russian citizens obtaining Schengen visas in a joint letter sent to the European Commission.

The prepared letter was submitted to EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas and EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Magnus Brunner. The letter pointed out that the tolerance shown toward Russian tourists vacationing in European countries while the war in Ukraine continues could increase security risks and political tensions.

It was stated that despite the EU–Russia visa facilitation agreement, which was suspended in 2022, visa practices are not being implemented in a fully equal and effective manner among member states, emphasizing that this creates a "significant deficiency." The joint letter also included the assessment that "the effectiveness of the EU is strengthened by unity and coordination," noting that alignment is essential for the success of common foreign policy and restrictive measures.

According to the shared data, 477 thousand 878 Schengen visas were issued to Russian citizens in 2025; the majority of these visas consist of multiple-entry visas. EU countries consider the high number and the possibility of Russian citizens returning from military duties entering the region as a threat to security. It was stated that intra-European coordination would make the Schengen Area more resilient against potential dangers.

Finally, it is being discussed that this call made by the relevant countries could lead to new, stricter steps being taken regarding Schengen visa regulations on the agenda in Brussels.

News Source: 12punto