Italy plans to issue to Russians by 300 thousand visas less this year

Italy expects to issue this year at least 500 thousand visas to Russians that is much less than in previous years.
"Because of the crisis, changes in currency exchange rates, tourist activity decreased. We expect to issue this year, at least 500 thousand visas to Russians, while last year we issued 800 thousand visas," the General Consul of Italy in Russia Pergabrielle Papadum de Bottini said.

At the same time, he said, it is difficult to count how many Russian tourists will visit Italy this year, as many Russians have multi-entry visas, including five-year visas issued in 2010.

"But, of course, there is a big decline in the number of tourists coming to us," the General Consul said.

He noted that for summer period the number of consular staff in Italian Consulate in Russia will be increased as well as their working area.