In the summer, it’s tempting to go on a trip! For example, you can visit the European Union, but you need to know important information about obtaining Schengen visas. According to tour operators, the demand for them increased by 50-60% before the summer of 2025.
Experts attribute the growing interest in holidays in Europe to new routes, the strengthening of the ruble and pent-up demand.
In 2024, 541,800 Schengen visas were issued to Russian citizens, which is 20.7% more than in 2023, although the share of multiple-entry visas has decreased. Tourists began to apply for specific trips, most often choosing Italy, France, Spain and Greece.
Registration for submission of documents in Moscow is open only for July, and the review period can reach two months. The Greek visa remains one of the few options for high-season travel, but the number of available slots is limited.
In the summer, EU consulates expect a significant workload, which may increase the time for issuing visas.
The share of refusals of Schengen visas for Russian applicants decreased to 7.5% in 2024. But experts point out that the main reason for the refusal is inaccurate data.
It is also worth knowing that six countries do not accept five—year passports – the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Iceland and Lithuania. Experts recommend applying for biometric passports. Holders of old passports should issue a second biometric document for the convenience of traveling to Europe.
Where else you can go on vacation, we told you in our article.
Cover photo: FTiare/Shutterstock.com
