Jamaica is the latest country to waive visa requirements for Russians, making the country a more convenient destination for last minute holidays. The country now allows visits of up to 30 days for tourist visitors.
Jamaica waived visas for visitors from some Latin American countries last year prompting a 50 percent jump in visitors from the region. Jamaican authorities expect a similar impact from the easing of visa requirements for Eastern and Central European countries.
It comes as Russia and members of the European Union continue to wrangle over travel restrictions. Russian negotiators hold the EU responsible for delaying the introduction of visa-free travel between Russia and the 27-member bloc. EU officials have objected to demands by Russian authorities for airlines to provide the details of all passengers traveling through Russian airspace, even if the aircraft does not land in Russia.
President Vladimir Putin criticized the slow pace of negotiations in January, saying the travel restrictions hampered the development of trade relations.
In the latest twist, the German government accepted Russia's demand of visa free travel for government officials.
Macedonia renewed its visa-waiver program for Russians on March 15th when the previous agreement expired. Visitors now require a visa to the Schengen Agreement countries plus evidence of a hotel booking, or they must apply for a visa from their home country.
The Austrian visa center in Moscow has moved. From this week, the new address is 31 Sushchyovsky Val, Bldg. 1.
Canada is offering 10-year multiple-entry "super visas" for the parents of residents in the country, for example Russians who have migrated. The visa requires proof of financial sponsorship in Canada and a medical certificate.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
