The European Commission supported the suspension of the simplified visa regime for all citizens of the Russian Federation. Now the decision has to be taken by the European Council. This is reported by the press service of the European Commission.

 The EC's message emphasizes that such measures must be implemented, as Russia should not have the right to visa facilitation as long as it is waging its aggressive war against Ukraine.

 "This means that Russian citizens will no longer enjoy privileged access to the EU and will face a longer, more expensive and more complicated process of obtaining a visa," the EC elaborates.

 In case of approval of the suspension of the simplified visa regime:

 The visa fee will increase from 35 to 80 euros.

 The time for processing documents will be increased (the standard period during which consulates must make a decision on a visa application will increase from 10 to 15 days. This period can be extended to a maximum of 45 days).

 Strict rules will apply when issuing multiple-entry Schengen visas.

 At the same time, the department notes that in order to approve the suspension of the simplified visa regime with Russia, the European Council must support the corresponding proposal of the European Commission.

 According to Radio Svoboda correspondent Rikard Jozvyak, the new visa restrictions will come into effect on September 12.

 It is worth noting that the EU agreed on a simplified visa regime with Russia back in 2007. On February 25, 2022, it was terminated in relation to Russian officials. Currently, the European Union plans to completely end the simplified visa regime with the aggressor country.