France Eases Visa Restrictions for Russian Citizens Amid EU Discussions

France is softening its approach regarding the issuance of Schengen visas to Russian citizens, as discussions among EU leaders are set to take place on October 17. Italy, however, continues to oppose any restrictions on Russian tourists.

What Changes Are Being Considered?

The EU is not contemplating a complete ban on tourist visas for Russians, but various measures are under consideration. These include limiting travel to a single EU country for Russian tourists, tightening visa checks, and introducing annual reporting on visas issued. The idea of a "Schengen Barometer" to track visa data and implementing quotas for a designated period are also being discussed.

Who Is Affected?

Countries that issue a significant number of visas to Russian citizens include France, Italy, Spain, and Greece. Italy's reluctance to support restrictions stems from a desire to maintain people-to-people ties with Russia, though some diplomats suggest financial motivations may also play a role.

How Will This Impact Travellers?

As of now, no final decisions have been made regarding the proposed measures. Travellers from Russia should stay informed about potential changes to visa policies, particularly if they plan to visit multiple EU countries. The upcoming discussions may lead to new regulations that could affect their travel plans.

The situation remains fluid, and further developments will depend on the outcomes of the EU discussions and the anticipated updates to the Visa Code.