Important update for travelers with Russian nationality to Germany!

Starting January 1, 2026, only biometric Russian foreign passports will be accepted for entry into Germany. Non-biometric passports will no longer be valid—unless they already contain a valid German visa issued before this date.

✅ If you hold a biometric passport, nothing changes for you.

You can travel, apply for a visa, or re-enter Germany as before. 📄 If your passport is non-biometric and you plan to travel after 2025, make sure to get a biometric passport beforehand. Otherwise your visa application or entry to Germany may be rejected.

Also: From October 2025, a new digital border control system for short-stay travelers enters into force in the Schengen area. During entry, biometric data (facial photo + fingerprints) will be collected.

Bottom line: If you are from Russia and plan to visit or relocate to Germany, check your passport—and get a biometric one if needed—to avoid entry problems.

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