Finland is tightening its visa sanctions against Russian citizens, with a new government resolution stating that their entry into the country poses a threat to Finland’s international relations. The restrictions, adopted on 12 November 2026, specifically target short-term work carried out under a visa, including professional sports, and will take effect on 16 November 2026.
“As long as Russia’s war of aggression continues, Russian athletes have no business in Finland. Their entry into the country would be a threat to Finland’s international relations. The same is true of other short-term work under visas that is not essential to Finland’s national interests,” said Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen.
Neutral-Status Athletes Also Covered
The measures will apply to Russian athletes and other sports professionals, including those competing under a neutral status. Authorities will implement the restrictions regardless of the country from which a Russian citizen is travelling to Finland, or whether they are transiting through Finland to other Schengen countries . Visas already issued will not be revoked.
Under the new guidelines, Russian citizens will only be permitted to work in Finland under a Schengen visa for tasks deemed essential to Finland’s national interests, such as security of supply . The resolution supplements a previous government decision issued on 6 July 2023.
Key Takeaways
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Effective date: 16 November 2026
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Scope: Russian athletes, sports professionals, and other short-term visa workers
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Neutral status: No exemption for Russian athletes competing under a neutral flag
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Transit: Restrictions apply regardless of departure country or onward Schengen travel
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Existing visas: Not revoked
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Exceptions: Work essential to Finland’s national interests, including security of supply
