To Europe for Christmas from Russia

 

 

A number of European countries (Poland, Latvia, Estonia, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Finland, Belgium, Denmark, and the Netherlands) have stopped issuing tourist visas to Russian citizens.
The Baltic states, Finland, and Poland have closed their borders: entry with a valid Schengen visa is now completely impossible.
Nevertheless, many Russians can still be found in Europe for sightseeing and shopping.

It is still possible for those wishing to enter the EU, but the process has become expensive, cumbersome, and lengthy.
Obtaining a Schengen visa now takes two to three months. Applicants are required to provide proof of salary and financial transactions.
They must also present flight tickets, a paid hotel reservation for the entire duration of their stay, and a certificate from the Pension and Social Insurance Fund confirming employment in Russia for the past 10 years.
Greece, Hungary, Germany, and Croatia issue visas strictly for the trip's duration. France and Italy may grant visas valid for six months or even a year.

Since March 2022, there have been no direct flights between Russia and the EU. Most travelers fly via Istanbul, Yerevan, Tbilisi, Baku, or even Algiers.

When returning to Russia, please remember: under sanctions, it is prohibited to export items purchased in the EU that exceed 300 euros. This includes clothing, jewelry, gadgets, and other goods.
Exporting cash in euros is also forbidden. You will be required to declare and count it. You can exchange euros for US dollars (the export of dollars from the EU to Russia is not restricted), but the banknotes must be of the latest series.
Russian debit cards do not work in Europe, and in many cases, even UnionPay cards issued by Russian banks are not accepted.