Russians with Europe travel plans are being urged to apply for their Schengen visas as early as possible.
According to tour operators, high demand and potential processing delays will be more common as the peak travel season approaches. To avoid complications, travel experts suggest submitting applications as early as six months in advance, if possible.
Russians Urged to Apply Early
Tour operators have advised travelers to apply for visas well ahead of the typical summer rush. Specifically, demand for Schengen visas is expected to increase significantly between late March and September. As a result, processing times may take longer, making early applications crucial.
Russians can submit visa requests up to six months before their travel dates. By applying early, travelers can secure appointments and reduce the risk of last-minute delays. Tour operators emphasize that waiting until the peak season could result in fewer available slots and longer wait times.
Fastest Processing For Russians
Recent reports confirm that Italy remains the fastest option for Russians applying for Schengen visas. Additionally, tour operators note that the Italian consulate in Moscow process applications in just two to three weeks after the visa interview. Appointment slots are available within seven to ten days, making Italy a preferred choice for many Russians.
France and Spain also offer fast visa processing times for Russians. However, scheduling visa appointments closer to travel dates will be challenging. Currently, the French visa application center in Moscow does not have available visa application slots until late March. Meanwhile, slots for Spain during the second half of February will be filled up soon.
In contrast, other Schengen countries may have longer waiting times, especially during busy months. Some consulates require travelers to book appointments several weeks in advance. As such, those applying to popular destinations should prepare for potential delays when booking an interview appointment.
Short Validity Periods a Concern
Despite fast processing in some countries, many Russian travelers face another challenge—short visa validity periods. Tour operators have reported that Schengen visas issued to Russians often come with limited duration. Hence, this restricts flexibility for future trips.
Previously, frequent travelers could obtain multiple-entry visas lasting several years. However, since 2022, most Russians receive shorter-term visas, sometimes valid for only a few months. This change forces travelers to reapply more frequently, increasing the burden on applicants and consular services.
More Delays Amid Peak Season
As summer approaches, demand for Schengen visas will likely surge. Past trends indicate that processing times can take significantly longer during peak months. In addition, many consulates struggle with high application volumes. Consequently, this leads to longer waiting periods for both appointments and approvals.
Overall, applying early helps Russians avoid unnecessary stress and ensures a smooth visa process. Those who delay may face difficulty securing appointments, leading to potential disruptions in travel plans.
Planning Ahead is Key
To avoid last-minute issues, Russians should act now. Booking visa appointments in advance and preparing necessary documents can save time. Choosing destinations with faster processing, such as Italy, can also make the process easier.
Photo by Callum Galloway on Unsplash
