The European Commission has decided to change the visa granting rules and to issue a single-entry Schengen visa for Russian citizens. They will be required to apply for a new visa each time they wish to travel to the European Union, reports IPN.
“All visa applications submitted by citizens of the Russian Federation will be subject to enhanced verification procedures and a higher level of control. This will contribute to the integrity and security of the Schengen area,” mentioned the European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner.
The European executive mentioned that the decision was taken with the aim of mitigating threats to public order and internal security. However, it acknowledged that exceptions can be made in certain cases – for human rights defenders and independent journalists.
The High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of the community bloc, Kaja Kallas, emphasized that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has created the greatest threat to Europe’s security in recent decades, and it is the EU’s duty to protect its citizens.
