The European Commission is today suspending visa-free travel for holders of Georgian diplomatic, service, and official passports, - this information is published on the official website of the European Union.

“Now they are required to obtain a visa to enter the Schengen area for official purposes. This is the first case in which the new reinforced visa suspension mechanism is being applied,” - the information states.

The press release emphasizes that the visa suspension mechanism has been activated in response to Georgia's deliberate and persistent violations of commitments undertaken under the visa-free regime in key areas of democracy and fundamental rights.

The European Commission explains that the purpose of visa liberalization is to promote contacts between peoples and to foster respect for shared values, including human rights and democratic principles.

“Since October 2024, including crackdown on protesters, opposition politicians, and independent media, have negatively impacted the situation in Georgia and resulted in breaches of several fundamental rights and international legal standards. Georgia has also refused to align with the EU visa policy, which is an essential condition of maintaining visa-free travel. The Commission considers that the actions of Georgian authorities undermine the principles on which visa liberalisation is based,” - the press release states.

In addition, today the Commission adopted guidelines for consular authorities and border guards of member states to assist member states in effectively implementing the decision to suspend visa-free travel.

“The guidelines recommend heightened scrutiny of all Georgian nationals crossing the EU's external borders: representatives of Georgian authorities have to use their diplomatic or service passport when travelling to the EU for official and diplomatic purposes. Not doing so, may result in the issuance of an entry ban.

Member States should also ensure that all Georgian nationals are checked against national and European databases, such as the Visa Information System, Schengen Information System, and other public databases. The Entry/Exit System, which is being gradually rolled out in the EU since October last year, provides for an additional layer of security screening,” - the information states.

The press release notes that, in addition, when holders of Georgian diplomatic, service, and official passports apply for a Schengen visa, member states are recommended to conduct thorough checks, interviews, and require supporting documents from these applicants.

“Member states should refuse to issue visas if there is any doubt regarding the reliability of the information provided by the applicants,” - the information states.

The guidelines will be presented to member states at the EU Council meeting on March 27, and “the Commission will closely monitor their implementation together with the member states.”