The Finnish Interior Ministry has announced that, effective from the end of June, travel restrictions for people entering Finland from outside the country will be lifted. This includes travelers arriving from Russia and other non-EU/non-Schengen regions.
From that date onward, third country travelers will not be required to present vaccines or COVID-19 test certificates, nor undergo border tests. Entry can proceed as it did before the pandemic, with standard immigration checks and documentation in place.
For travelers from outside the European Union and the Schengen area, the requirement to carry valid travel documents remains in force. A passport is essential and a visa may be needed depending on the traveler’s nationality and purpose of visit.
The Interior Ministry anticipates a boost in international tourism, especially from Russia. Finnish consulates are resuming regular visa processing and aligning their procedures with updated border rules.
The Finnish Border Guard will continue to monitor border security in cooperation with national and international partners to adapt to changing conditions.
Previously, Finland closed its borders to tourists from Russia due to the pandemic, with restrictions extended repeatedly over the years. The current changes represent a major shift in travel policy.
Under the new framework, entry to Finland is feasible by road or bus from neighboring regions. Air travel had resumed in a limited way earlier, while flight bans between Russia and many countries remained in place in response to broader aviation restrictions. Rail services have been intermittently suspended in parts of the network.
Who opened the borders to tourism?
Across Europe, several states have relaxed entry controls. In one example, tourist entry rules were eased, removing the need to show vaccination, recovery, or recent negative test results. Visa services have been streamlined, with interview appointments available through national visa centers.
Direct flight connections between Russia and this country have gradually decreased, with many travelers using connections through other hubs. Ticket prices vary, with some routes offering competitive fares in the coming months.
Across the continent, many countries have removed most health related entry requirements for visitors. Others still impose certain conditions or require negative tests in specific scenarios, while some have paused or adjusted visa issuance in light of sanctions or shifting diplomatic relations.
In several destinations, visa policies have changed notably. Some jurisdictions have simplified document requirements while others have paused or adjusted visa services due to sanctions or diplomatic developments. Industry reports indicate ongoing adjustments as governments balance health, security, and tourism goals.
When no visa is required
Some regions have lifted entry restrictions for foreign travelers altogether. In these places, visitors can enter with a standard passport and do not need to provide proof of full vaccination or negative COVID-19 tests. Travelers should still verify current visa rules and the exact entry requirements before planning a trip.
Air travel may involve transfers through third country hubs where required. In some cases, land borders remain open while certain previously restricted air routes are returning to service on varied schedules. Advisors recommend checking the latest government advisories and airline guidelines to ensure smooth entry.
Many countries have also adjusted health related travel measures for other destinations, including quarantine and testing policies for travelers from different regions. Prospective visitors should consult official government portals or trusted travel advisories for the most up to date information and to confirm any country specific conditions on arrival.
Overall, international travel has moved toward greater openness in many jurisdictions. For travelers from Russia and other regions, this often means more straightforward planning for cross border trips, provided the latest entry rules are observed and the necessary documentation is prepared in advance.
Security agencies and border administrations continue to emphasize vigilance and cooperation with international partners to maintain safe borders while supporting tourism and economic activity. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to verify any changes as policies adapt to evolving public health and security considerations.
Sources cited for these developments include statements from national ministries and corroborating reports from travel agencies and government portals. Izvestia and national authorities on border policy updates are noted as references in coverage of these changes.