Russia and the EU signed the agreements on visa facilitation and readmission at a Russia-EU summit held at the Black Sea resort of Sochi in late May 2006.
The agreement on easing visa regulations aims to create favorable conditions for developing and expanding mutual contacts between citizens and officials from Russia and EU member states, except Great Britain, Denmark and Ireland.
The agreement on readmission aims to fight illegal migration. It is called upon to provide conditions and grounds for the return of individuals illegally staying on the territory of Russia and EU member states.
During the first three years after the readmission document comes into force, Russia will have to accept exclusively Russians or citizens of states with which it has relevant readmission agreements.
The readmission agreement does not apply to Denmark.