European Commission Tightens Schengen Visa Rules for Russians

The European Commission has tightened the rules for issuing Schengen visas to Russian citizens. The relevant directive for EU member states was presented by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson.

According to her, EU countries should not accept visa applications from Russians if they are submitted in third countries.

Moreover, the duration of stay in the EU with a Schengen visa for Russian citizens has now been limited to 90 days. “It is explicitly stated in the Schengen Code that the possession of a Schengen visa does not guarantee entry into the EU,” she stated.