"Instead of multiple-entry tourist visas, Russian tourists are issued double-entry visas in 50-60% of cases, primarily for cruises," the Association of Tour Operators of Russia reported.
Starting from autumn 2025, Russians without valid Schengen visas will need to apply for new documents each time they plan a trip to the EU.
The issuance of multiple-entry Schengen visas to tourists from Russia has sharply decreased this year, the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR) reported on Wednesday, March 19, citing data from market participants. Specifically, in January-March 2026, the number of multiple-entry Schengen tourist visas for Russians decreased by at least 90% compared to the same period in 2025. Some tour operators stated that since the beginning of 2026, they have practically not received multiple-entry visas for their clients.
"Instead of multiple-entry tourist visas, Russian tourists are issued double-entry visas in 50-60% of cases, primarily for cruises," ATOR explained. This practice is followed by the consulates of Italy, France, Spain, and Greece.
At the same time, tour operators reported an increase in applications for Schengen visas to Spain, France, Italy, Greece, and Hungary compared to the first quarter of 2025.
The European Commission limited the issuance of multiple-entry visas to Russians back in 2025
In autumn 2025, the European Commission announced the suspension of the issuance of multiple-entry Schengen visas to Russian citizens. The EU authorities decided to tighten entry rules for Russians to reduce security risks amid increasing acts of sabotage and espionage due to the war in Ukraine.
Now, Russians without valid visas need to apply for new documents each time they plan a trip to the EU.
Leave a comment