Between January and March of this year, the number of multiple-entry Schengen tourist visas issued to Russian citizens has decreased by at least 90% compared to the same period last year. Tourism operators have reported that they have hardly received any requests for multiple-entry visas for their clients since the beginning of the year. This drastic decline highlights the impact of geopolitical tensions on travel opportunities for Russian citizens.

The European Commission has imposed restrictions on issuing multiple-entry Schengen visas to Russian citizens starting in 2025. These measures were introduced as part of the EU's effort to strengthen entry regulations for Russian nationals due to heightened security risks linked to sabotage and espionage amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. The implications of these restrictions signify a tightening of diplomatic and travel relations between Russia and the EU, reflecting broader geopolitical conflicts.

Currently, Russian citizens without valid visas are now required to apply for new documentation every time they plan to travel to the European Union. This change creates additional barriers for Russian travelers, potentially leading to a decrease in tourism-related activities. As a result, the policy not only affects individual travelers but may also have a broader economic impact on tourism sectors within EU member states that formerly welcomed Russian tourists.