(MENAFN) Tokyo is preparing to establish a new visa center in Russia to handle a growing influx of visa requests from Russian travelers, according to a document released by the Japanese Embassy in Moscow on Friday.

The diplomatic mission has officially invited commercial bids from potential operators for the new facility, with the final decision expected to be made by the consular department by mid-November.

Officials explained that the move comes in response to a notable increase in tourist visa applications received recently by the embassy in Moscow and the consulate general in St. Petersburg.

The tender also includes an option to open an additional center in Russia’s Far East in the future, which would give applicants an edge during the selection process.

Japan’s strategy stands in contrast to that of many European countries, which have implemented restrictions or complete bans on Russian visitors following the intensification of the Ukraine conflict in 2022.

These nations have justified their actions by citing security risks or by arguing that ordinary Russians should “bear the cost” of their government’s policies.

Moscow, meanwhile, has argued that Western sanctions ultimately inflict damage on the countries imposing them, while Russia continues to strengthen its connections with other regions to counterbalance the effects of the sanctions.

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