A complete ban on Schengen visas for Russian tourists is unlikely soon, as France, Italy, Spain, and Greece oppose it due to economic and political reasons. Instead, the EU is tightening procedures, with major decisions possibly in Fall 2026.
Sweden's migration minister called for stricter EU tourist visa rules for Russians, deeming it "insane" for them to holiday in Europe while Ukrainians die in the war. A letter from 11 nations urged the EU to harmonize restrictions, citing a rise in visas issued.
Svetlana Zhurova, First Deputy Chair of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs, stated that stricter Schengen visa issuance for Russians will inconvenience citizens but not increase pressure on the Kremlin. Eleven European countries urged the EU to tighten visa requirements, aiming to prevent Russians from vacationing in Europe.
Svetlana Zhurova, First Deputy Chair of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs, stated that stricter Schengen visa rules for Russians will inconvenience people but not pressure the Kremlin. She questioned how such measures would increase pressure and suggested Russians can vacation within Russia.
Allegations of bot software blocking Schengen visa appointments and selling them commercially have been brought to the Turkish Parliament. The Ministry of Trade has launched investigations into 7 companies.
