As of April 2025, French visa centers no longer accept 5-year non-biometric Russian passports for Schengen visa applications. This policy change affects thousands of Russian travelers planning EU trips.
Key Changes:
- Ban on applications with old-style passports.
- Only biometric passports (10-year validity) accepted.
- \Transition period for pre-April 23 applications
Alternative Solutions:
1. Obtain biometric passport (processing time: 1-3 months)
2. Apply through other Schengen countries (Spain/Italy still accept old passports)
3. Use valid visas issued before May 3, 2025
Urgent Measures:
- Dual passport submission (old for ID, new for visa).
- Service fee refunds for canceled appointments.
- Postponing travel dates
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I enter France with old passport?
Yes, if visa was issued before 03.05.2025 in old passport.
2. Which passport is required now?
Only biometric (10-year validity) passports accepted.
3. How to get visa urgently?
Apply for second biometric passport (takes 1+ months).
4. Can I use old appointment?
No, new appointment required with biometric passport.
5. Which countries still accept old passports?
Italy, Spain, Greece (as of 29.05.2025).
6. New photos required?
Yes: matte 3.5×4.5 cm on white background.
7. Required documents:
- Accommodation proof
- Paid flight tickets
- €30,000+ travel insurance
8. Visa cost in 2025?
€90 (adults), €45 (children 6-12).
9. How to avoid rejection?
Double-check all documents meet new requirements.
10. Possible to get multi-entry visa?
Possible with clean visa history.
11. Faster passport processing?
Apply at local MFC (30 days standard).
12. Do old visas still work?
Yes, if not expired.
Photo source: https://ru.123rf.com/
For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
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