Lithuania Introduces New Transit Regulations for Russian Citizens

New regulations of direct transit of Russian citizens via Lithuania come into effect since February 1.

In contrast to former free crossing of the Lithuanian border, citizens of the Russian Federation should have a passport and children under 14 - a birth-certificate.

In addition, all Russians will have to fill in a special document "Application for Railway Transit via Lithuanian Territory", warning and obliging the traveller not to leave the train during transit via Lithuania.

The new regulations are introduced in connection with Lithuania's preparations for joining the European Union and will be in effect till July 1. Vilnius intended to establish tougher conditions for Russians. However, the Russian authorities managed to achieve some concessions.