European Commission calls on Serbia to restrict granting of citizenship to Russians

The European Commission has called on Belgrade to tighten its visa policy for citizens of the Russian Federation, bringing it into line with EU requirements as part of Serbia’s European integration process.

The 2025 Serbia Report, published on Tuesday, November 4, notes that Serbia’s visa policy only partially complies with the European list of third countries whose citizens are required to have an entry visa, DW reports.

The current practice of granting Serbian citizenship to Russian citizens — and therefore their right to enter the European Union without a visa — poses a potential risk to the security of the EU, Brussels assesses.

Meanwhile, the request to restrict the issuance of passports to Russian citizens is included in the Enlargement Package, which sets out the EU’s policy for accepting new members.

“Brussels noted Serbia’s refusal to join EU sanctions against Russia. Belgrade has partially supported some EU Council decisions, including those condemning Russia’s actions, but has maintained a high level of contact with Moscow and rhetoric with elements of anti-Western propaganda,” the European Commission said.

The European Union noted that Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić maintains “demonstrative contacts” with the Russian leadership. Brussels recalled Vučić’s participation in the Victory Parade on May 9 in Moscow and his meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos stated that Serbia, unlike many other EU candidate countries, has slowed down the process of reforms and democratization. It also noted that the effectiveness of the Serbian parliament has decreased “due to infrequent sessions” and “lack of genuine political debates.”

Serbia has refused to join European sanctions against Moscow, while bilateral relations have strengthened. Meanwhile, meetings between Serbian and Russian officials are discussing deepening relations between the two countries.

Similar reports were published the same day for other EU candidate countries.