Stricter practice of the German Embassy in Russia: Visa issuance to Russians becomes more difficult

Entry and employment migration to Germany has become significantly more difficult for Russian nationals in recent months . There is increasing evidence that Germany and other European countries are significantly tightening their visa issuance practices. This represents considerable uncertainty for many skilled workers , managers, and companies . Those who previously relied on flexible mobility between Russia, third countries, and Germany are particularly affected.

A concrete example: Even senior executives of German companies with Russian passports who live and work in third countries are now often only issued visas for specific travel dates. Multi- entry visas , which were once standard, are rarely granted anymore. This severely complicates business trips , especially when they are necessary several times a month. For companies that rely on international specialists, this is a noticeable burden .

Long waiting times and technical hurdles

The problem for Russian citizens is also evident with the "Opportunity Card ," which is supposed to facilitate access to the German labor market. Registrations in Moscow have been virtually frozen since September 2024, and waiting times are now almost a year. Anyone living in Russia who relies on the "Opportunity Card" must therefore expect extreme delays . In addition, the digital portal of the German diplomatic missions abroad ( digital.diplo.de ) in Russia continues to be unreliable. For applicants, this means that procedures are not only lengthy but, in many cases, simply blocked. In these cases, the only solution is to hire a lawyer specializing in immigration law .

Making matters even more complicated is the fact that the possibility of applying for German national visas in third countries (e.g., for Russians in Belarus) has now been almost completely abolished. It used to be a common strategy to resort to consulates in neighboring countries to avoid long waiting times. This option now practically no longer exists. For many affected individuals, the only option is via Russia – and this is currently effectively blocked.

What does this mean for skilled workers and employers?

Current developments point to a growing decoupling – not only in politics and the economy, but also in the area of labor migration . For Russian nationals, this means that anyone who wants to work in Germany long-term or build a professional perspective should consider alternative strategies . Experts frequently advise first securing a residence permit in a third country. From there, it will be easier to maintain access to German visas or residence permits in the future.

This situation also presents a challenge for employers in Germany. The demand for international specialists remains high, while political decisions are making recruiting certain target groups significantly more difficult. Companies that rely on employees from Russia should seek legal advice early on and consider alternatives for project and personnel planning.

Conclusion

The hurdles for Russian skilled workers and managers to come to Germany or build a future here are currently higher than they have been for a long time. For those affected, this means they must plan ahead and find flexible solutions – for example, through stays in third countries or other migration strategies. For employers, it is all the more important to secure their personnel planning in a timely manner and to seek professional support. Anyone interested in knowing what options are available in their individual case should seek legal advice early on.