Brussels: The European Commission announced on Friday stricter visa rules for Russian nationals, citing what it described as increased security risks linked to Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine, as well as growing incidents of sabotage and drone disruptions on European soil.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the Commission stated that the European Union (EU) will no longer issue multi-entry visas to Russian citizens, emphasizing that travel to the EU is "a privilege, not a given." Any visa application from Russian nationals will be subjected to enhanced verification and reinforced security checks.
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas mentioned in the statement that "Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine has created the most dangerous security environment in Europe for decades." She highlighted the unprecedented drone disruptions and sabotage on European soil and stressed the duty to protect EU citizens. "Travelling to and freely moving within the EU is a privilege not a given," she added.
EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner stated that protecting the EU's external borders requires "robust and comprehensive visa management." He noted that visa applications from Russian nationals will be reviewed with increased scrutiny to reinforce the security of the Schengen area.
The Commission clarified that the new rules aim to mitigate threats to public order and internal security within the EU. However, limited exceptions will be made for justified cases, such as independent journalists and human rights defenders, to ensure uniform application and prevent circumvention.
This decision is based on a joint assessment among EU Member States and follows previous measures, including the suspension of the EU-Russia Visa Facilitation Agreement, guidance to de-prioritize visa issuance for Russian nationals, and strengthened border controls.
Additionally, the EU imposed new restrictions last month on the movement of Russian diplomats within the 27 member states as part of the 19th sanctions package.