Sweden to Stop Accepting Non-Biometric Russian Passports

International residents in Sweden must prepare for updated regional travel rules. Sweden will stop recognizing non-biometric Russian passports on October 1, 2026. The European Commission recently announced this new border policy. Holders of valid Schengen visas or residence permits get extra time in Sweden. Sweden will allow these individuals to enter until the end of 2026.

Other European countries are enforcing stricter timelines. Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands will offer no transition period. A total of 15 European states now refuse non-biometric Russian travel documents. These states include France, Germany, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and the Czech Republic. Travelers moving across Europe should check their passport type before booking trips.

Russia currently issues two different types of international travel passports. Biometric passports remain valid for ten years. Non-biometric passports are valid for five years. Non-biometric passports cost less and take less time to obtain. The policy update was reported by news outlet Meduza.