Norway has announced plans to further restrict Russian tourists from entering the country, closing nearly all access through its only open border with Russia.
This decision is part of Norway’s support for its allies in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Storskog border closing for Russians
Starting on May 29th, 2024, the Storskog border crossing in the Arctic will no longer allow Russian tourists to enter.
Justice Emilie Enger Mehl said that these tightened rules are part of Norway’s response to Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine.
Before this change, Russians with valid Schengen visas issued before spring 2022 could cross the Storskog. Now, this will not be allowed for tourism or other non-essential travel.
Exemptions for some Russians
Despite the stricter rules, Norwegian authorities will still allow certain groups of Russians to enter.
Russians who want to visit close family members living in Norway or other Schengen countries can cross the border.
Additionally, Russians who work or study in Norway or other Schengen countries can enter if they have the necessary documents.
Norwegian authorities will keep a close watch on border traffic at Storskog and may introduce more measures if needed.
Support for tighter border control
The Norwegian government’s decision to tighten border control has received widespread support, except from Russian officials who claim it is discriminatory.
Frode Berg, a former Norwegian border inspector who was jailed in Russia for espionage, believes Russian agents have likely been infiltrating Norwegian businesses, schools, and other organizations for years.
Berg and others agree with closing the borders to Russian tourists, stating it is about time Norway took these actions.
He believes Norway has been too trusting in the past and that Russia has become a more dangerous neighbor.
Dilemma for border residents
The tensions with Russia after its invasion of Ukraine have created problems for people living near the border, who have been able to move freely between the two countries for many years.
Although those with family or important connections in Norway can still cross, some worry that the stricter rules might make it harder for Russian refugees escaping Putin’s government to seek asylum in Norway.
Justice Minister Mehl said the new restrictions match Norway’s approach to supporting its allies and responding to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. These measures are meant to strengthen sanctions against Russia.
Impact on cross-border shopping
The border closure will stop organized cross-border shopping, as Russians have traveled to Kirkenes for better selection and prices compared to cities like Murmansk.
Professor Kari Aga Myklebost from the University of Tromsø noted that the closure has made news in Russia, with Russian authorities promising to respond.
Despite this, local mayor Magnus Mæland is relieved that people living on both sides of the border will not be affected by the new entry restrictions and does not expect any major consequences for the region.
Norway’s bold border move
As Norway tightens border controls, restricting most Russian tourists from entering, the country aims to increase security and support international sanctions against Russia.
Although Russian officials criticize this move, it has received strong support within Norway as a necessary response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine.