Denmark, the Czech Republic, Estonia, and France no longer accept 5-year Russian passports
Several European countries, including Denmark, Czechia, Estonia, and France, have officially stopped recognizing Russian international passports without biometric chips (5-year validity). The Russian Foreign Ministry’s Consular Department confirmed via Telegram that these nations now require 10-year biometric passports for entry.
Key Updates by Country:
Denmark:
- Only 10-year biometric passports are valid for entry, exit, or stay. No exceptions.
Czechia:
- Accepts 10-year biometric passports only.
- Exceptions: Long-term residence permit holders (issued by Czechia) and children under 15.
Estonia:
- Strictly enforces 10-year biometric passports for Russian citizens.
- Transitional period: Residence permit holders in Estonia/EU have until September 30, 2025, to replace passports.
France:
- Allows entry with 10-year biometric passports.
- 5-year passport holders: Permitted only with visas issued before May 3, 2025. Children under 15 are exempt.
Frequently asked questions
1. Which EU countries reject 5-year Russian passports?
Denmark, Czechia, Estonia, and France. A 10-year biometric passport is required.
2. How to replace a 5-year passport with a biometric one?
Submit an application at an MFC or the Main Directorate for Migration.
3. Is there a transitional period for Estonia?
Yes, until September 30, 2025. Afterward, only 10-year passports are valid.
4. Do I need a visa for France with a 5-year passport?
Only if the visa was issued before May 3, 2025. New trips require a biometric passport.
5. How to get a passport for a child under 15?
Children can use 5-year passports, but we recommend upgrading to biometric.
6. Exceptions for EU residence permit holders?
Only Czechia and Estonia allow transitional periods for residence permit holders.
7. Why did the EU impose these restrictions?
To enhance document security and combat counterfeiting..
8. Can I enter the EU with a Russian internal passport?
No—only international passports are accepted.
9. Risks of traveling with an old passport?
Entry denial, deportation.
Photo source: https://ru.123rf.com/
For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
* The texts of the newsletters are intellectual property of Confidence Group, protected by the copyright laws of Russia. The information may not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without linking to this web site or to pages of this website.
