Brussels—Answering journalists on 6 November 2025, European Commission spokesperson Markus Lammert confirmed that the EU is ‘looking into additional measures’ to limit the issuance of Schengen visas to Russian citizens, beyond the suspension of the 2007 visa-facilitation agreement. Although details were not disclosed, diplomatic sources say options include banning multi-entry C-visas and imposing longer background checks.
Germany has already hardened its own stance, raising fees and document requirements for Russian applicants and, from January 2026, banning entry with non-biometric passports. Foreign-office officials in Berlin signalled support for an EU-wide approach, arguing that patchwork national rules create loopholes and uneven security standards.
![Brussels hints at fresh Schengen restrictions for Russian travellers as Germany backs tougher line]()
If the Commission proceeds, corporate mobility teams should expect:
• Fewer multi-year Schengen visas for Russian business travellers, increasing administrative load.
• Longer lead times as German consulates apply expanded screening protocols.
• Heightened scrutiny of invitation letters, itinerary transparency and end-user-statement affidavits, especially for technology-related meetings.
German exporters with Russian client bases may need to pivot to virtual engagements or host meetings in non-Schengen jurisdictions. Intra-EU staff with Russian nationality should check existing residence cards; long-term permits are not directly affected, but re-entry after travel could face additional document checks.
The Commission is expected to brief member-state visa experts later in November, with draft regulations possibly tabled before year-end.
Germany has already hardened its own stance, raising fees and document requirements for Russian applicants and, from January 2026, banning entry with non-biometric passports. Foreign-office officials in Berlin signalled support for an EU-wide approach, arguing that patchwork national rules create loopholes and uneven security standards.
If the Commission proceeds, corporate mobility teams should expect:
• Fewer multi-year Schengen visas for Russian business travellers, increasing administrative load.
• Longer lead times as German consulates apply expanded screening protocols.
• Heightened scrutiny of invitation letters, itinerary transparency and end-user-statement affidavits, especially for technology-related meetings.
German exporters with Russian client bases may need to pivot to virtual engagements or host meetings in non-Schengen jurisdictions. Intra-EU staff with Russian nationality should check existing residence cards; long-term permits are not directly affected, but re-entry after travel could face additional document checks.
The Commission is expected to brief member-state visa experts later in November, with draft regulations possibly tabled before year-end.
