In response to heightened concerns over security and geopolitical tensions, Czechia drastically reduced the number of visas issued to Russian citizens in 2023. Here’s a pointwise overview of the situation:
- Limited Approvals: Only 262 visas were granted to Russian applicants, out of 283 applications.
- Stricter Security: Czech counterintelligence closely monitored visa applications to mitigate security risks.
- High Rejection Rates: Over 50,000 Russian visa applications were rejected.
- Sanctions Impact: Stricter visa policies were part of broader EU sanctions against Russia following the Ukraine war.
- Visa Misuse Prevention: The measures helped prevent potential misuse by individuals linked to foreign powers.
- Closed Consulates: Czechia closed two consulates in Brno and Karlovy Vary, limiting application options for Russians.
- Regional Comparison: Czechia had one of the lowest approval rates for Russian visas in the EU, second only to Iceland.
- Counterintelligence Involvement: The BIS (Czech intelligence) played a key role in screening applicants to prevent threats.
- Other EU Countries: Poland, despite similar restrictions, issued thousands more visas to Russian nationals.
- Visa Trends: Applications from Russian citizens dropped by 24% across the EU in 2023.
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