EU Tightens Visa Restrictions for Russian Nationals Amid Security Concerns

The European Union is increasing scrutiny of Russian citizens seeking entry, restricting multiple-entry visas and bolstering security measures due to concerns over Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and potential security risks within the Schengen Area. The move reflects a growing apprehension about potential sabotage and the possibility of individuals with ties to the conflict entering Europe.

Increased Scrutiny of Visa Applications

As of Friday, February 14, 2026, Russian nationals are no longer eligible for multiple-entry visas to the Schengen Area, which comprises 25 of the 27 EU member countries, along with Liechtenstein, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland . Applicants will now be required to apply for a new visa each time they intend to travel to Europe, allowing for more thorough vetting of each individual.

The European Commission stated that this change will enable “close and frequent scrutiny of applicants to mitigate any potential security risk” .

Exceptions to the New Rules

Exceptions to the stricter visa rules will be made for individuals deemed trustworthy, such as dissidents, independent journalists, and human rights defenders. Close family members of Russians residing in the EU, or EU citizens living in Russia, will also be exempt .

Rationale Behind the Changes

The decision to tighten visa restrictions comes amid heightened concerns about “unprecedented drone disruptions and sabotage on our soil,” according to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas . The EU views travel to and within the bloc as a privilege, not a right, and is taking steps to protect its internal security.

In 2024, over half a million Russians received Schengen visas, a significant increase from 2023, but still below pre-war levels of over 4 million in 2019 . Some member states, including the Baltic states, have already implemented even stricter measures, including outright bans or severe restrictions on Russian nationals entering their territory.

National Competence and Ongoing Debate

While the European Commission can make the visa application process more tough, the ultimate decision on visa issuance remains a national competence. This means a complete, bloc-wide ban on Russian visitors is not currently possible .

Further Restrictions Under Consideration

Beyond the visa restrictions, the EU is also planning to restrict the movements of Russian diplomats, requiring them to notify member states in advance of any travel within the Schengen Area, as part of its 19th package of sanctions, aimed at countering “increasingly hostile intelligence activities” .

Poland, the Baltic states, and Nordic countries are also pushing for a ban on visas for Russian nationals who have fought against Ukraine . Estonian Minister says the national security of his country is threatened by this group of Russian nationals .