# Finland tightens visa exception for Russian athletes ahead of winter tournaments

https://mins.news/en/item/141084

- Meduza, 2026-11-12 17:12 UTC
- Politics
- Original: https://meduza.io/en/news/2026/11/12/days-before-major-winter-tournaments-finland-narrows-a-visa-exception-for-russian-athletes-including-those-competing-as-neutrals

> Finland has narrowed the short-work-trip visa exception for Russian citizens, including athletes competing as neutrals. Such visas will be issued only for work deemed necessary for Finland’s national interests. The rules take effect November 16, and visas already issued will remain valid.

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- [Finland bars Russian athletes from entering over Ukraine war](https://mins.news/en/item/141118) — The Guardian, 2026-11-12
- [ISU asks Finland to clarify restrictions on Russian athletes](https://mins.news/en/item/140908) — TASS, 2026-11-12