On 4 September 2026, the German Federal Government published its assessment of the 4 August 2026 incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport and outlined several related measures. These include changes connected to diplomatic arrangements, infrastructure protection, European Union (EU) coordination, and entry controls for Russian nationals.1
WHY THIS MATTERS
For global mobility programs, the key point is the further tightening of entry and visa controls for Russian nationals:
- Schengen C visas (short stays): The issuance of Schengen C visas to Russian nationals is expected to become more restrictive and the overall number of visas granted may be reduced. Holders of already valid Schengen C visas who are Russian nationals should also anticipate more intensive checks when entering Germany.
- National D visas (long-term stays): Employees applying for national D visas for long-term stays – for example for employment or family reunification – may continue to do so. However, we expect more selective assessment of applications and longer processing times due to additional security screenings carried out as part of the visa procedure.
Employers with Russian employees, assignees, business travelers, or accompanying family members should closely monitor these developments and build in additional lead time for travel preparation, visa issuance, and entry into Germany.
Key Highlights
- Government assessment announced: The German Federal Government stated that its assessment was informed by police investigations, identified patterns, and intelligence findings. The source distinguishes this governmental assessment from ongoing criminal investigations and legal proceedings.
- Infrastructure protection measures: The government announced a strengthened approach to protecting infrastructure against hybrid activities. The source does not provide further operational detail on these measures.
- Diplomatic and institutional Measures: The source states that the Russian Consulate General in Bonn is to close on 18 September 2026 and that the agreement for the operation of the Russian House in Berlin is to be terminated.
- EU coordination: Germany plans to propose new EU listings of persons from Russia in connection with hybrid activities. The source also states that Germany is coordinating with EU partners.
- Entry controls for Russian nationals: The Federal Government announced that entry controls for Russian nationals will be tightened. The source does not specify procedures, timing, documentation requirements, or affected subgroups.
- Coordination with international partners: The source states that Germany is in close coordination with partners in NATO and the EU, and that related consultations have taken place.
KPMG INSIGHTS
In light of the changes, employers might wish to consider the following:
- Identify upcoming travel to Germany involving Russian nationals and allow additional time for travel preparation.
- Review official guidance with their immigration, global mobility, and travel teams and assess whether additional documentation or contingency planning may be appropriate.
If assignees and/or their programme managers have any questions or concerns about the scope of the update, its application and potential impacts, and appropriate next steps, they should consult with their qualified professional or a member of the GMS team with KPMG in Germany (see the Contacts section).
ENDNOTE:
1 Bundesregierung (in German), “Reaktionen auf hybriden Angriff am Flughafen Leipzig/Halle,” published on 4 September 2026.
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Disclaimer
* Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.
The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in Germany.
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