Germany tightens visa rules for Russian citizens: what has changed

Germany is tightening its visa issuance rules for Russian citizens. The German Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reported that the number of restrictions for Russian citizens obtaining visas is increasing.

According to DW, the German government is acting in accordance with the principles of the European Union, which require the cancellation of the simplified visa regime with Russia due to the war.

'This applies to both Schengen visas and national visas,' the ministry emphasized.

The new requirements include an increase in visa fees, additional documents, longer processing times for visas, and restrictions on the conditions for obtaining multiple-entry visas. The ministry also stressed the importance of a unified approach by all Schengen countries to introducing restrictions for Russian citizens. The criteria for visa issuance are constantly being reviewed by the government to adapt to the current situation.

The German government has decided to increase the number of restrictions on visa issuance for Russian citizens in accordance with EU principles. This is an important step to ensure security and compliance with norms in the current conditions of conflict with Russia.