The U.S Embassy in Moscow has announced that it would reduce consular services starting May 12 after Russia moved to prohibit U.S. Mission Russia from employing non-Russian nationals.

Key Points:

  • Effective May 12, the U.S. Embassy in Moscow will only offer emergency U.S. citizen services and consular services for “a very limited number of age-out and life or death emergency immigrant visas.”
  • The announcement states that non-immigrant visa processing for non-diplomatic travel will cease for the foreseeable future.
  • The U.S. Embassy in Moscow will not offer routine notarial services, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, or renewal passport services for the foreseeable future.
  • Residents of Russia who require a new U.S. passport to remain in Russia legally or who need a passport for a demonstrable, life or death emergency should email moscowacs@state.gov to have their request considered.

BAL Analysis: The change will significantly limit U.S. consular services available in Russia, and some applicants may have to apply through an embassy or consulate outside of Russia in order to obtain a visa. BAL will continue to follow developments and will report additional information as it becomes available.

Source: This alert has been provided by the BAL U.S. Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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