Fr om October 1, 2026, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Sweden will stop recognising old-style Russian passports that do not contain biometric data. According to a document published by the European Commission, the restrictions will apply to five-year passports. While three countries – Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands – are introducing a full ban with no transition period, Sweden has made an exception.
In Sweden, a transitional period for holders of non-biometric passports will remain in effect until December 31, 2026. However, this concession applies only to those who already have a valid Schengen visa or residence permit issued by EU or Schengen Area countries before October 1, 2026.
After the new rules take effect, the number of European countries restricting entry with non-biometric Russian passports will reach 15. Previously, similar restrictions were introduced by Finland, Iceland, Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, the Czech Republic, France, Germany and Romania.
We recommend that travellers check the type and validity period of their passport in advance. New biometric passports (valid for 10 years) are protected by an electronic chip and meet modern security standards.
Frequently asked questions:
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Which countries will stop accepting old Russian passports from October 1?
From October 1, 2026, entry with non-biometric passports will be closed by Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Sweden. Earlier, Germany, France, Finland, Poland, the Czech Republic, the Baltic states, Romania, Denmark and Iceland did the same.
2. Is there a transitional period in Sweden?
Yes. Until December 31, 2026, Sweden will accept old passports, but only if accompanied by a valid Schengen visa or residence permit issued before October 1, 2026.
3. Will there be a transitional period in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg?
No, these three countries are introducing a complete ban on entry with five-year passports, with no exceptions, from October 1, 2026.
4. What is the difference between an old and a biometric passport?
A biometric passport contains an electronic chip with the holder's data and fingerprints, and is issued for 10 years. The old (non-biometric) passport is issued for 5 years and allows children to be included in it.
5. If I have a Schengen visa in my old passport, will I be able to enter?
Yes, but only in countries that still accept this passport, or wh ere a transitional period applies (as in Sweden). In countries that have introduced a full ban (Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg), even a visa will not help.
Photo source: https://www.magnific.com/
