France Tightens Visa Issuance Rules for Russian Citizens Amid EU-Wide Restrictions
France joins Italy, Spain, and Hungary in imposing stricter visa application procedures for Russian nationals.
France has announced new restrictions on visa issuance to Russian citizens, following similar moves by Italy, Spain, and Hungary. Starting July 15, applicants will be required to submit their visa documents in person or through close relatives, marking a significant tightening of the Schengen visa application process.
New Rules Impacting Russian Visa Applicants
According to the Association of Russian Tour Operators, the French Visa Center in Moscow will no longer accept visa applications submitted via notarized power of attorney. This change means that only the applicant personally, their parents or guardians for minors under 18, or close family members such as spouses, children, and parents can submit documents on the applicant’s behalf.
These close relatives must present original documents proving kinship, and the visa applicant must have completed biometric data submission within the last 59 months prior to applying. Additionally, the visa application form must be signed personally by the applicant, and biometric data collection is mandatory for all applicants aged 12 and above.
"Applicants must now appear in person or be closely related to the applicant, with strict verification procedures for family ties and biometric data requirements," the Association of Russian Tour Operators reported.
Context: Rising Demand and Delays Across EU Visa Centers
This development comes amid increasing demand and extended processing times for Schengen visas in Russia. Previously, the Italian visa center in Moscow saw processing times stretch to 60 days, while the Spanish center reported delays up to 45 days. Separately, Hungary has suspended visa application acceptance in several Russian cities including Samara, Ufa, and Kazan.
The coordinated tightening of visa rules by multiple EU countries reflects a broader trend of stricter entry requirements for Russian citizens, complicating travel plans for Russian nationals seeking access to the Schengen area.
