Norway is Closing its Border to Russian Tourists

In a decisive move reflecting its stance on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Norway announced on Thursday that it will close its border to Russian tourists. 

This significant decision shuts the last direct access for Russians to the border-free Schengen area of Europe, effective from May 29. 

This blog delves into the reasons behind Norway’s latest policy shift and its broader implications.

Standing by Allies: A Unified Response to Russia’s Actions

The primary reason behind Norway’s decision to tighten its entry rules for Russian tourists is to align with its allies and partners in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 

Norway's Minister of Justice and Public Security, Emilie Enger Mehl, articulated this stance clearly, emphasizing the need to stand in solidarity against Russia's "illegal war of aggression against Ukraine."

By closing its border to Russian tourists, Norway is not only demonstrating its support for Ukraine but also reinforcing the collective measures adopted by European nations to isolate Russia diplomatically and economically.

The Policy Change: What It Means

Previously, Norway had stopped issuing most tourist visas to Russians in spring 2022, shortly after the invasion of Ukraine. 

However, Russians holding long-term visas issued before the conflict or those with visas from other Schengen countries could still enter Norway via the Storskog-Boris Gleb border crossing, the only direct crossing between Norway and Russia.

Starting May 29, this will no longer be the case. 

The new policy will prevent most Russian tourists from entering Norway, although exceptions will be made for work, study, and visits to close family residing in Norway. 

This marks a significant tightening of border controls aimed at reducing the flow of Russian nationals into the country.

Security Concerns: Intelligence Risks

Norway’s decision is also influenced by security concerns. Norway's domestic intelligence service, PST, recently highlighted the potential for Russia to use tourists and other travelers for intelligence purposes. 

PST expects that Russia might attempt to compensate for the expulsion of intelligence officers by increasing the number of traveling agents. 

In April 2023, Norway expelled 15 Russian embassy employees identified as intelligence officers, underscoring the heightened vigilance against espionage activities.

Beate Gangas, head of PST, emphasized this risk in a foreign press briefing, reinforcing the need for stringent border controls to mitigate potential threats. 

By closing the border to Russian tourists, Norway aims to reduce the avenues through which espionage activities could be conducted.

European Solidarity and Schengen Area Implications

Although not a member of the European Union, Norway cooperates closely with the EU and often aligns its policies with the bloc. 

The EU has already implemented similar measures against Russian nationals following the invasion of Ukraine. 

Norway’s latest move further synchronizes its approach with that of the EU, reinforcing the collective stance against Russia.

The Schengen border-free area, which includes most European countries, allows for free movement within its borders. 

By closing its border to Russian tourists, Norway is taking a significant step within this framework to limit access to individuals from a country currently engaged in aggressive military actions in Ukraine.

Impact and Reactions

Since the start of the year, 5,102 people with tourist visas have crossed the border from Russia into Norway. 

This number is expected to drop drastically with the new restrictions. The Russian embassy in Oslo has yet to respond to this development, but the move is likely to draw a reaction given its broader implications.

In conclusion, Norway’s decision to close its border to Russian tourists is a strategic move aimed at supporting Ukraine, aligning with European allies, and addressing national security concerns. 

As the conflict in Ukraine continues, such measures reflect the ongoing efforts by nations worldwide to respond to Russia's actions and maintain international stability and security.