Europe’s visa crackdown leaves Russian travelers with fewer options in 2024
European countries have been tightening visa policies for Russian citizens in recent years. While each nation independently sets its own rules, a trend towards more restrictions is evident. Traditionally, multiple-entry visas allowed unlimited entries into the Schengen Area. However, countries like Germany and France have been issuing only single or double-entry visas, or those tied to specific travel dates. This shift has been met with resignation from Russia's travel industry. Expedia confirms that many of these restrictions were already in place de facto. Now, they're being officially enforced. Visa processing times have also increased, with Italy taking up to two months, Spain averaging three weeks, and France having the earliest appointments in January. Additionally, countries are imposing stricter itinerary checks and application quotas. In 2024, 542,000 Schengen visas were issued to Russians, not all for tourism. However, long-term visas have become rare, with travelers now typically receiving visas tied to their exact travel dates or valid for just a month. Greece, Switzerland, Hungary, and Austria primarily issue such single-entry visas. European consulates have largely stopped issuing multiple-entry visas to Russians, reflecting the broader trend of tightening travel regulations.
