Visa's to Russia priced in Euro, but to be paid in US dollars as of Oct. 1

Deputy Foreign Minister, Andrzej Załucki, has signed an agreement with his Russian counterpart, Siergiej Razow yesterday, concerning the mutual introduction of visas on October 1. "The introduction of visas is not our choice, but a necessity connected with Poland joining the EU," announced Razow. A single entry visa to Russia will cost EUR10, a dual entry visa will cost EUR16, and a multiple entry visa will bear the charge of EUR50. They, however, will be paid for in US Dollars, taking into account the current exchange rate. Free visas will be given to those under 16 years of age and above 70, or those visiting ill relatives or going to funerals. Poland and Russia agreed that free visas will be given to those live in the Kaliningrad enclave and Poles travelling there. The Russians have not agreed to Poland's proposition, to introduce similar regulations as was done with Ukraine, which state that all Ukrainians get free visas while Poles do not need any at all. (Rzeczpospolita, p. A1; Gazeta Wyborcza, p. 4) A.K.