It is important to note that this restriction only applies to Russians residing in Russia. It does not affect those who left the country after the start of the war and mobilization—they can apply for multiple-entry visas at EU consulates abroad. However, it should be taken into account that since September 2022, Brussels has tightened the rules for visa applications from Russians in third countries such as Kazakhstan, Serbia, Turkey, and the UAE, but this only concerned short-term trips (up to six months). Therefore, the chances of obtaining a multiple-entry visa at foreign consulates may be higher than at Russian representations.
Can the ban in Russia be circumvented?
In some cases, it is possible.The European Commission has provided exceptions for certain categories of applicants:
- close relatives of citizens legally residing in EU countries;
- transport sector workers (sailors, truck and bus drivers, members of railway crews).
