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Visa problems ahead? The German consulate in Moscow has been in the news recently due to reports that it's tourist visa policy had been tightened. Many Travel Companies suddenly found that up to 75% of their applications had been rejected and that clients were being informed to appear at the consulate in person for interviews. The German consulate denied reports that there were any changes in the policies towards visa applications, " Accredited agencies are allowed to apply for tourist visas for their clients however people wishing to visit Germany for business must apply in person". Visa regulations for USA relaxed? The United States may consider waiving visas for Russian tourists and businessmen indicated US Secretary of State, Colin Powell. The matter for waiving visa requirements for visiting Russians was raised at a recent Congress subcommittee as it was argued that aplying for visas is a complicated, costly, inconvenient and lengthy process for Russians. The effects of this possible change were being discussed at length amongst Tourism specialists as almost 100,000 Russian apply yearly for non-immigrant visas each year and if the scheme is adopted tourism to the USA would increase vastly. The US Secretary of State's remarks could also indicate that the recent decision to force Russians to obtain transit visas for stop-overs in the US may be rescinded. Problems with Belgium Visas As we go to press we have been informed that the Belgium consulate in Moscow has stopped issuing visas for at least two weeks. Additional details will follow once we receive statements. Editors Note:- Please contact us if you are experiencing difficulties with Visas for your clients. A concerted effort may be necessary to assist our colleagues in Russia.  |
