Finland will close entry for Russian tourists with Schengen
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Finland in the coming days prohibits Russian citizens from entering the country for tourism purposes on all Schengen visas. Similar decisions previously taken by Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia.
The announcement that the Finnish government had taken a “fundamental decision to significantly restrict” the entry of Russians into the country and the issuance of Schengen visas to them was published on the website of the President of Finland Sauli Niinistö.
Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto will make a statement shortly. At a press conference, he said that Russian citizens are allowed to enter Finland only for the purpose of work, study and visiting relatives.
“To all those who travel on Schengen visas previously issued by Finland, and to those who travel on Schengen visas of other countries,” the minister said.
Previously, strict restrictions on entry for Russians to Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia. The ban applies to crossing the borders of countries by Russian citizens with valid Schengen visas.
An exception is made for fur drivers, diplomats and citizens entering on family and humanitarian issues.
After the start of the war in Ukraine, the EU closed the skies to Russian aircraft. It was possible to leave for Europe by car or bus through Latvia or Estonia.
Finland, which also borders Russia, has not yet joined the new restrictive measures.