As per reports, Russians have applied for more visas to Europe’s visa-free Schengen area in 2024 than in 2023, despite facing bureaucratic and geopolitical challenges, as of Thursday (07 November).

• Kommersant reported that the increase in visa applications was attributed to EU consulates in Russia reducing the issuance of multiple-entry visas, prompting more Russians to apply for single-entry visas.
• Demand for business and tourist visas to the 29-nation Schengen Zone increased by 35 percent from January to October 2024, compared to the same period in 2023.