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Schengen Visa and Border Rules in July 2026: What Travelers Need to Know Now

In short
France now requires all visa appointments to be booked online (no walk-ins). The EU has stopped issuing multiple-entry Schengen visas to most Russian citizens. The new Entry/Exit System (EES) is live but only a few airports handle it smoothly so far. If you are a non-EU traveler, expect longer queues at borders and plan extra time.
Curated by Joan Sanz Updated:

France Makes Online Visa Appointments Mandatory Worldwide

Since February 20, 2026, anyone applying for a French Schengen or long-stay visa must book their appointment through the official online portal. Walk-ins and informal booking methods are no longer accepted. This applies to all nationalities, everywhere. Read the official change on SchengenVisaInfo.

If you need a French visa, do not show up at a consulate without an online appointment. You will be turned away. Book early. Slots fill up fast.

The Entry/Exit System (EES) Is Live But Rocky

The EU’s new digital border system launched in October 2025. It replaces passport stamps with automated registration of entries and exits. So far, only three countries have the system working smoothly at their airports. Brussels Airport saw three-hour queues in the first week. Read the EES launch report on SchengenVisaInfo.

Carry your passport ready. Have your boarding pass and visa documents easily accessible. If you fly through an early-adopter airport, arrive at least three hours before departure.

EU Tightens Visa Rules for Russian Citizens

As of November 2025, the European Commission stopped issuing multiple-entry Schengen visas to ordinary Russian citizens. Every trip now requires a separate visa application. Full details on the ban from SchengenVisaInfo. Wealthy Russians with investor passports (so-called golden passports) from EU countries are still exempt.

If you are a Russian national, apply for each trip individually. Do not assume a previous visa is still valid for re-entry.

The "Small Country Trick" Can Get Your Visa Refused

Some travelers from the UAE try to apply through less popular Schengen states like Luxembourg or Malta, hoping for faster processing. VFS Global warns this often leads to refusal. The warning from VFS Global on SchengenVisaInfo. The legal rule is clear: you must apply at the country where you will spend the most time. If your itinerary is fake, border officials will find out.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Check your 90/180 day count. Seven Kosovo nationals were recently stopped at the Croatia-Serbia border for overstaying. That border incident on SchengenVisaInfo. Use the EU's free online calculator to track your days.

Portugal canceled all work-seeking visa appointments in October 2025. If you planned to enter Portugal on a job-search visa, that route is closed. Portugal's visa cancellation on SchengenVisaInfo.

For travelers heading to Amsterdam, remember that the Dutch capital is a major Schengen entry point. EES delays have been reported at Schiphol. Give yourself extra time. Check our Amsterdam guide for current opening hours and local transport tips.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to book a visa appointment in person for France in 2026?
No. As of February 20, 2026, all French visa appointments must be booked online. Walk-ins are not accepted.
Can Russian citizens still get a Schengen visa in 2026?
Yes, but only single-entry visas. The EU no longer issues multiple-entry visas to ordinary Russian nationals. Apply separately for each trip.
What is the EU Entry/Exit System and how does it affect me?
EES replaces passport stamps with digital entry/exit records. It launched in October 2025 but works smoothly only at a few airports. Expect longer queues at border control in most locations.
Can I apply for a Schengen visa through a country I do not plan to visit?
No. You must apply at the country where you will spend most of your time. Using a 'small country trick' (e.g. applying via Malta while staying in France) can lead to refusal.