EU to limit Schengen visas for Russians

The European Union is considering new sanctions that would restrict the ability of Russian citizens to travel to Schengen Area countries. The initiative involves replacing standard Schengen visas with national permits with strict geographic restrictions.

New rules mean tourists will only be able to visit one specific country that issued the visa. Crossing the borders of other states within the single zone will be prohibited even with a valid document.

An example of such restrictions is when a visa is issued by Italy: entry into France or other countries will become impossible. This radically changes the logic of traveling through Europe, depriving tourists of freedom of movement.

It is expected that these measures could be adopted as early as October 14. The decision affects millions of Russians planning vacations and business trips to EU member states.