France issues significantly fewer visas to Russians compared to pre-pandemic levels

France issued three times fewer visas to Russians in 2025 compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to Russia's ambassador. This significant decrease follows France reporting over 150,000 entry permits issued last year, a slight increase from prior periods. Previously, Paris issued around 450,000 multiple-entry visas annually. The visa process is now described as difficult and slow, with applications often for single trips and costs doubled due to the end of a preferential regime.