Finland tightens visa rules for Russian athletes

Finland will tighten visa rules for Russian athletes from November 16, after the government approved changes to its policy on Russian nationals, Yle reports. Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said Russia uses sport as a propaganda tool to advance the aims of its war of aggression.

Under the new rules, short-term work visas will be granted only for work considered necessary in Finland’s national interest, such as work related to security of supply. The change applies to other short-term work trips as well as those made by professional athletes, and also covers athletes competing under a neutral status.

Until now, Russian professional athletes could apply for visas for work trips lasting less than 90 days. Valtonen said other EU countries have similar national restrictions. The government is not ending all exceptions: Russian family members of Finnish citizens and people permanently resident in Finland can still qualify.

Visas already issued will not be withdrawn. Valtonen said officials can apply the new policy from Monday, November 16. The policy is not a law and does not require parliamentary approval, though visa decisions are also governed by legislation.

The issue drew renewed attention after the international appeals court CAS ruled in late October that Russia’s participation in international ice hockey should be allowed immediately. The Finnish Ice Hockey Association said Finland would not play Russia while its war in Ukraine continues, and other countries later joined the boycott.

Russian athletes are expected at next week’s Finlandia Trophy figure skating competition and at the world figure skating championships in Tampere in March. Whether they can travel will depend on whether they have already been granted visas.