On Friday, September 9, the Council of the European Union agreed to fully suspend the visa facilitation agreement between the EU Member States and Russia.
Key Changes from September 12, 2022
- Visa application fees will increase from €35 to €80.
- Russian nationals will have to submit additional documentary evidence for their application.
- Processing times will increase from 10-15 days to 45 days.
- There will be more restrictive guidance for multiple-entry visas.
Earlier in the week, the EU Commission proposed expanding the sanctions against Russia to include suspending the visa facilitation agreement. Also, this week, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland agreed to stop issuing Schengen visas to Russian nationals, with very few exceptions.
Erickson Insights
Due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, policies are subject to sudden change and without notice. Erickson Immigration Group will continue to share updates as more news is available. If you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions, please contact your employer or EIG attorney.