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Finland bans Russian passports
From 1 June 2026, Finland will no longer recognise non-biometric passports issued by the Russian Federation, citing the need to ensure the reliability and security of travel documents. While formally presented as a technical and administrative measure, the decision reflects Helsinki’s broader security-driven policy towards Russian citizens introduced after 2022.
Under the new rules, non-biometric Russian passports will be refused, with three limited exceptions. Finland will continue to accept such passports if issued to persons under the age of 18; if the holder was granted a Finnish residence permit before 1 June 2026; or where there is a special reason and the case is assessed individually.
A transition period will apply from 1 June to 31 December 2026. During this time, Finland will accept non-biometric passports containing a valid visa issued by Finland before 1 June 2026. The same will apply to passports containing a valid visa or residence permit issued before that date by another EU Member State or Schengen country.
Non-biometric passports are documents that do not contain a chip storing biometric identifiers. Finnish authorities argue that biometric features enhance document security and reduce the risk of fraud. The Ministry for Foreign Affairs has therefore recommended that holders of non-biometric passports prepare well in advance if they intend to apply for a visa or residence permit.
The decision must also be understood within a wider political context. Since 2022, Finland has introduced government resolutions restricting non-essential travel by Russian citizens to Finland and transit through Finland to the Schengen area. The new passport policy does not represent a dramatic escalation, but rather a continuation of Helsinki’s cautious, legally grounded and security-oriented approach towards Russia.
