European Commission Proposes Tightening Visa Regulations for Russians: What Changes Are Expected

The European Commission has advised EU member states' embassies to extend the processing time for visa applications from Russian citizens to 45 days to ensure thorough checks. This was reported by TASS, referencing the announcement from the European Commission.

It was noted that the Commission has also recommended verifying citizens of the Russian Federation and those holding Schengen visas from Russia for potential "security threats" to the EU. If such threats are identified, the organization suggests that EU countries refrain from issuing visas to Russians.

Additionally, the European Commission has not approved the issuance of long-term multiple-entry permits to tourists arriving from the Russian Federation, as stated in the document. The issue of granting tourist Schengen visas to Russians has been advised to be made a "last priority." Meanwhile, the Commission has proposed to simplify the visa application process for representatives of civil society and dissenters arriving from Russia.

Earlier, European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson indicated that the European Union intends to impose strict restrictions on tourist visas for Russians, with entry granted only for family reasons and for journalists. The Commissioner also mentioned that the proposal for a complete freeze on tourist visas for Russians originated from her, and on Friday, September 9, the EU Council will approve her proposal.

Later, the press secretary of the Russian president, Dmitry Peskov, stated that Moscow would analyze the specific steps taken by the EU in response to the European Commission's initiative to impose restrictions on tourist visas for Russian citizens and would determine measures for response. He noted that "reciprocal actions" would be taken regarding this situation.