The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania has announced its intention to extend visa issuance and screening restrictions for citizens of Russia and Belarus entering the country. The current restrictions, effective until May, are set to be extended for another year, until 2025. Additionally, the Ministry has proposed to tighten some restrictions for Belarus nationals.
Under the proposed changes, nationals of Belarus entering Lithuania on a Schengen visa will be subject to a risk assessment to evaluate any potential threat to the country’s internal security, public order, and international relations. The border guard of the country will also have the authority to carry out further checks on Belarus nationals at the second line of control at checkpoints.
Russian nationals entering Lithuania are already subject to in-depth screening and will continue to be subject to the same rules. Lithuania had previously stopped issuing visas to Russian nationals in 2022 due to the war in Ukraine, and later imposed stricter requirements for Belarusians.
Despite these restrictions, certain exemptions apply. Family members of Lithuanian citizens or other EU citizens, individuals involved in international transport, and those entering for humanitarian reasons are not subject to the stricter rules.
If the proposal is passed, Russians and Belarusians will continue to face visa issuance and screening restrictions until May 2, 2025.
If you are planning to visit Lithuania, it is important to be aware of these regulations to ensure a smooth entry into the country. Stay updated on the latest visa and entry requirements before your trip to avoid any inconvenience.
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