Slovakia has suspended the issuance of most Schengen visas for Russian citizens

Slovakia has temporarily restricted the issuance of most types of Schengen visas for Russian citizens. 

Specifically, applications for Schengen visas to attend sporting events, as well as national visas regardless of the purpose of stay, will be accepted. Appointments for applicants who planned to travel for tourism, business, or personal reasons will be canceled.

The visa center stated that the service fee paid will be refunded in full within 7–15 days. Russians are advised to monitor further updates, as visa processing for other purposes may resume after the end of August.

Slovakia’s decision comes amid a general tightening of visa rules for Russian citizens across the European Union. Previously, similar restrictions were introduced by certain Schengen Area countries, including France, Spain, Italy, and Hungary.

Discussions are also ongoing within the EU regarding possible further restrictions on the entry of Russian tourists. Some countries are calling on the European Commission to tighten the rules for issuing Schengen tourist visas to Russian citizens.

This was reported by the Russian Visa Center, which noted that in July and August, Russians will only be able to apply for certain categories of travel.

As a reminder, Montenegro is preparing to introduce a visa requirement for Russians.

Thus, Ukraine is effectively establishing a long-term model of strict border control for Russian citizens, which will remain in effect not only during the war but also after it ends. Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiga made this statement at a joint press conference with Juraj Blanár, Slovakia’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs.

Once the war ends, Ukraine plans to introduce special restrictive entry procedures for Russian citizens. Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiga made this statement during a press conference in Vinnytsia. According to him, this will involve enhanced controls, checks, and a permit system for visiting the country.