Difficulties arise for Russian tourists crossing Spain's borders due to new regulations
Airport Transit Visas Now Required for Russian Travelers Transiting through Spanish Airports
Listen up, flyin' Russians! If you're planning a trip that involves connecting through any of Spain's international airports, mark your calendars for July 12, 2025. That's when a new visa rule kicks in, unless you want to miss your flight.
Your ordinary passport just won't cut it anymore. Now, you'll need an Airport Transit Visa (TAP) to transit through the international zones of Spanish airports under the revised visa code (point 2, article 3). While this visa allows you to move around in the international zones of Schengen airports, it doesn't grant you entry into Schengen countries.
But here's some good news! If you were hoping to skip this hassle because you were flying to a non-Schengen country, staying within the transit zone, and not messing with baggage or terminals, you're in the clear. Previously, these conditions were good enough. Unfortunately, those days are gone.
Madrid, Zoya Oskolkova
PS: This new rule doesn't apply to you if you're a Schengen visa holder, already have a valid visa for Spain or the Schengen Area, or if you're a Russian citizen holding an EU/EEA residence permit or a diplomatic passport.
PPS: Keep in mind that this is a revised version of the article, which might deviate slightly from the original structure and tone. But hey, who doesn't love a little twists and turns, right?
© 2025, RIA "Novy Day"
- Despite the new travel regulations, those transiting through Spanish airports without planning to enter the Schengen Area are exempt from the Airport Transit Visa requirement, maintaining a sense of normalcy in their lifestyle.
- Meanwhile, for those interested in politics and general-news, the ongoing changes in travel policies, such as the implementation of Airport Transit Visas for Russian travelers, could signal a shift in diplomatic relations between Spain and Russia.
