The European Commission has officially approved new strict rules for issuing Schengen multiple-entry visas for Russian citizens. At the same time, the situation with entry into Sweden has escalated, where Russian medical insurance policies are no longer recognized. Here are the key changes to consider when planning trips.
New EU rules for issuing multiple-entry visas
The European Commission has published an Implementing Decision that fundamentally changes the approach to issuing multiple-entry Schengen visas to Russian citizens applying within Russia. Increased risks to EU security were cited as the reason.
Who is exempt?
From now on, only two categories of applicants will be able to obtain multiple-entry visas:
- Close relatives of EU citizens or legal residents of EU countries. They may be issued a visa for one year, provided they have three legally used Schengen visas within the last two years.
- Transport workers (drivers, sailors, railway workers). For them, the maximum validity of a multiple-entry visa is 9 months, and they must have two used visas within two years.
Important nuance: the document is advisory in nature.
Each Schengen country retains the right to issue long-term visas for up to 5 years in exceptional cases, for example, for independent journalists or human rights activists.
Sweden does not accept Russian insurance: risks and solutions
The Russian Embassy in Stockholm has officially warned about a new problem. Swedish border guards do not recognize medical insurance policies issued by Russian companies, citing sanctions.
In practice, this means:
- Denial of entry into Sweden.
- Cancellation of a valid Schengen visa.
To avoid these risks, it is necessary to take out an insurance policy in advance from an international or European insurance company that will be valid throughout the Schengen area. You can apply for such a policy on our company's website.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What are the new rules for Schengen visas for Russians in 2025?
Answer: The European Commission has published a decision advising member states not to issue multiple-entry visas to Russian citizens. Exceptions are made for close relatives of EU citizens (visa up to 1 year) and transport workers (visa up to 9 months), provided their previous visas were used correctly. -
Is insurance required for a Schengen visa in 2025?
Answer: Yes, medical insurance is mandatory. However, some countries, such as Sweden, have stopped recognizing policies from Russian insurance companies. -
Why is Sweden not admitting travelers with Russian insurance?
Answer: According to clarifications from the Swedish side, in light of sanctions, Russian policies are not considered sufficient guarantee of medical coverage for travelers. -
What to do if my insurance is not recognized at the border?
Answer: You may be denied entry and your visa may be cancelled. To avoid this, take out insurance from international providers operating in the Schengen area. For example, you can apply for a policy on our website. -
Who can get a multiple-entry visa to the EU now?
Answer: Mostly, close relatives of EU citizens and transport workers can hope for a multiple-entry visa, but each Schengen country makes its own decision on a case-by-case basis. -
What insurance is suitable for the Schengen area?
Answer: Policies issued by international or European insurance companies that meet the requirements of the consulates are suitable. Konfidens Grupp assists in arranging such policies. Russian policies, as the situation with Sweden shows, may not be accepted. -
Is it possible to get a 5-year Schengen visa?
Answer: Yes, according to the European Commission's decision, member states in some cases (for example, for independent journalists, human rights activists and their family members) have the right to issue multiple-entry visas for up to 5 years. -
What are the European Commission's visa recommendations?
Answer: This is a directive document that sets the general direction for visa policy for Schengen countries, but the final decision on each applicant is made by the consulate of the specific country. -
Will a visa be cancelled for having the wrong insurance?
Answer: Yes, as practice in Sweden has shown, border services have the right not only to deny entry but also to cancel a valid Schengen visa if a traveler presents an insurance policy they do not recognize.
Photo source: https://ru.freepik.com/
For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
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