IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change? Russia’s ban on visa-free travel and new work permits for Turkish nationals will soon be lifted, according to a May 31 presidential order.

What does the change mean? Turkish nationals will be allowed to travel to Russia for business, tourism or work.

  • Implementation time frame: Ongoing. The order was issued May 31, and the most recent information suggests that authorities will begin processing applications for invitation letters July 14.
  • Visas/permits affected: Visitor visas and work permits.
  • Who is affected: Turkish nationals traveling to Russia or applying for work permits.
  • Impact on processing times: Once the visa-free regime is restored, Turkish travelers will not need to apply for a visa to visit Russia.
  • Business impact: Companies will be able to resume sending Turkish nationals to Russia for business or work.
  • Next steps: The order has not yet taken effect and Turkish nationals should confirm that the restrictions have been removed before traveling to Russia.

Background: Russia has imposed travel restrictions since November 2015, when Turkey shot down a Russian fighter jet over its border with Syria. Additional economic sanctions on Turkish companies doing business in Russia were imposed January 2016.

BAL Analysis: The lifting of the ban will ease business travel and allow Russian companies to apply for work permits for Turkish employees. BAL is following implementation of the order and will update clients on new developments.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in the Russian Federation. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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