New Entry and Visa Rules in 2025

Everything flows, everything changes. Sometimes for the better, sometimes not so much. For example, in the past year 2024, Japan stopped requiring hotel booking confirmations, and by the end of winter, Russians were lining up to get a Japanese visa. Let's see what changes regarding visas and entry rules have occurred in 2025.

Which countries do not accept old-style passports

Since 2024, some European Union countries have stopped accepting five-year foreign passports without biometric data when crossing the border. This trend continued in 2025. Exceptions may be made for children under 15 with old-style foreign passports and for holders of Schengen visas obtained before May 3, 2025. The following countries now require a new-style foreign passport:

• France
• Denmark
• Malta
• Czech Republic
• Iceland
• Norway
• Lithuania
• Estonia
• Latvia

New countries in the EU

As of January 1, 2025, Bulgaria and Romania officially became full members of the Schengen Area. This means that now you will need to obtain a visa to visit Sunny Beach, Albena, and Varna. On the other hand, for those traveling within the European Union, this is also a plus – you can cross the borders of Bulgaria and Romania without passport control.

Digital Nomad Visa in Slovenia 2025

Great news for remote workers: from November 21, 2025, Slovenia will issue a Digital Nomad Visa. It will be valid for one year, but without the possibility of extension. Six months after the expiration of the previous such visa, documents can be submitted again. It is allowed to bring family members, but they will not be able to work in Slovenia. Three ways to apply are provided: when you are already in the country, at a Slovenian embassy or consulate from other countries, or online.

The following documents will be required:

• Non-EU citizenship;
• Contract with a foreign company or freelance status;
• Confirmed income (the exact amount has not yet been announced);
• Medical insurance;
• Tickets to Ljubljana – most convenient with a layover in Istanbul.

Simplified Digital Nomad Visa in New Zealand

Here, the authorities also decided to attract remote workers with simpler conditions. From January 27, 2025, tourists with a visa, an electronic travel authority NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority), and guests visiting family members can work remotely for foreign employers while in New Zealand. The maximum period for remote work is 90 days. This period can be extended up to 9 months if tax obligations are met. The easiest way to fly to Auckland is with just one (!) layover in Shanghai.

Special Visas for French Overseas Regions

This year, the rules for visiting French overseas territories have been tightened. Now, Russians need to obtain a separate visa (DFA – Départements et régions d'outre-mer). Previously, a standard Schengen C visa was required. However, if you have a long-stay D visa, you don't need to worry for now. The list of countries includes:

• French Polynesia
• Martinique
• Saint Barthélemy
• New Caledonia
• Wallis and Futuna
• Guadeloupe
• Saint Martin
• Réunion
• Mayotte
• Guiana
• Saint Pierre and Miquelon

Transit Visas in Spain

Changes have also occurred in Spain. While previously Russians making a transfer in international airport zones were allowed to stay in the transit area without additional documents, from July 12, 2025, an ATV (Airport Transit Visa) will be required. To apply, a standard set of documents will be needed: photos, visa fee, confirmed ticket reservation, and a waiting period of about 15 days. You cannot leave the airport with it, and without it, you won't even be allowed on the first segment of your flight.

We remind you that the easiest way to get to Spain is by taking tickets for the Moscow – Madrid route with a layover in Istanbul.

Longer visa-free stay in Oman

Now, tourists from Russia can stay in the country without a visa for 30 days instead of 14. However, the total number of days spent in Oman must not exceed 90 days per year.

Extension of Tourist Visas in Indonesia

Now, a personal visit is essential. From May 29, 2025, VOA and eVOA can only be extended through the immigration office. You need to submit an application and upload documents on the website, visit the office, undergo an interview, and have your photo taken.

If you haven't been to Bali yet, here's a link to convenient and cheap tickets to Denpasar.