Sunday, November 8, 2026 - Finland is preparing tougher entry restrictions for Russian citizens, with Prime Minister Petteri Orpo indicating that a complete entry ban could be consistent with the government's security policy. The announcement follows discussions on November 6 involving President Alexander Stubb and the government's foreign and security policy committee.
Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen confirmed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is preparing proposals to tighten existing restrictions. The move comes as Finland continues to reassess its relationship with Moscow amid Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine.
Under the proposed measures, Finland is considering closing existing exemptions that currently allow certain Russian citizens, including professional athletes, to enter the country. Although Finland stopped issuing tourist visas to Russians in 2022, exceptions have remained for specific purposes such as employment, family visits and other essential travel.
Orpo told Finnish media that the government wants to prevent Russian professional athletes from using existing exemptions to participate in sporting events. Officials are reportedly seeking to introduce the new restrictions within weeks, although the exact scope and implementation details have not been finalised.
The proposed restrictions could have wider implications for sporting competitions, cross-border movement and relations between Finland and Russia. Helsinki is also pushing for stronger coordination across the European Union, with Foreign Minister Valtonen calling for a broader ban on Russian tourist visas across the Schengen area.
The government must now determine how far the restrictions should extend while considering legal obligations and humanitarian exceptions. As tensions over the war in Ukraine continue, Finland's next decisions could add further pressure to Europe's already restrictive travel policies towards Russian citizens.
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