In a significant tightening of travel policies, the issuance of multiple-entry Schengen visas to Russian citizens has plummeted by 90% as of March 2026, according to recent analyses from EU visa processing centers.www.youtube.com This sharp decline stems from a formal decision by the European Commission in 2025 to restrict multi-entry visas for Russians residing in Russia, shifting approvals almost exclusively to single-entry permits for one-time trips. High overall approval rates—around 90% for properly documented applications—persist, but the policy change has curtailed repeated access to the 29-nation Schengen Area.

The restrictions align with broader EU measures amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, including calls from leaders of eight member states for a full Schengen entry ban on Russian military personnel who served in Ukraine.www.pravda.com.ua Countries like Estonia and Lithuania are advancing national bans on such individuals, citing risks of espionage, organized crime, and extremism, while noting a recent uptick in overall Russian visa issuances that prompted urgent action. Recent sanctions expansions, such as Finland's enforcement of entry bans on additional Russian nationals added to the EU list on March 5, further underscore the clampdown, overriding even valid visas.www.visahq.com

Visa processing remains swift in key hubs like Germany, with decisions in 6-7 days and appointments available into April, though primarily for single-entry options. These changes reflect suspended visa agreements with Russia, leaving most applicants limited to short, one-off visits and complicating business and leisure travel.newunionpost.eu EU officials anticipate no policy reversals soon, tying relief to de-escalation in Ukraine.