Latvia Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Latvia, a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area since 2004, follows the common Schengen visa policy for entry requirements. Travelers from many countries can enter Latvia visa-free for short stays, while others may need to apply for a Schengen visa before arrival. The country maintains modern border control facilities at its international airports in Riga, as well as land borders with Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus. Upon arrival in Latvia, travelers will go through standard immigration procedures where they may be asked to present their passport, proof of accommodation, return tickets, and evidence of sufficient funds for their stay. As a Schengen member state, Latvia does not conduct routine border checks for travelers arriving from other Schengen countries, though random checks may occur. For arrivals from non-Schengen countries, full passport control procedures apply. It's essential to understand that entering Latvia means entering the Schengen Area, and the 90-day visa-free period (where applicable) applies to the entire Schengen zone, not just Latvia. Travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended departure date from the Schengen Area and was issued within the last 10 years. Border officials have the authority to deny entry if they believe travelers do not meet entry requirements or pose a security risk.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Latvia applies the Schengen visa policy, which means visa requirements are standardized across all Schengen member states. Citizens of certain countries can enter visa-free for short stays, while others must obtain a Schengen visa before travel.

Visa-Free Entry

EU/EEA citizens: unlimited stay with right to work. Other visa-free countries: 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area

Citizens of EU/EEA countries, as well as many other nations, can enter Latvia without a visa for tourism, business, or family visits

Includes

All EU and EEA countries United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia Israel United Arab Emirates Brazil Argentina Chile Mexico Switzerland Norway Iceland

Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen Area. The 90-day period applies to the entire Schengen zone, not just Latvia. Travelers may be asked to show proof of sufficient funds, accommodation, and return tickets.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETIAS)

90 days within any 180-day period (same as current visa-free travel)

Starting in 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need ETIAS authorization before entering the Schengen Area

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Japan and all other current visa-exempt non-EU countries

How to Apply: Apply online through the official ETIAS website. Applications typically processed within minutes to 96 hours. Valid for 3 years or until passport expiration, whichever comes first. Allows multiple entries.
Cost: €7 for adults (free for applicants under 18 or over 70)

ETIAS is not a visa but a pre-travel authorization. It does not guarantee entry; border officials make final decisions. Keep a copy (digital or printed) of your ETIAS approval for presentation at border control.

Visa Required

Typically up to 90 days within any 180-day period for short-stay visas. Long-stay visas available for stays exceeding 90 days.

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free travel must obtain a Schengen visa before traveling to Latvia

How to Apply: Apply at the Latvian embassy or consulate in your country of residence, or at the embassy/consulate of another Schengen country representing Latvia. Applications should be submitted 15 days to 6 months before travel. Requires completed application form, valid passport, photos, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, financial means, and purpose of visit.

Visa-required countries include Russia, China, India, Turkey (as of recent changes), South Africa, Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Egypt, and many others. Processing time typically 15 calendar days but can extend to 30-60 days in some cases. Visa fees are approximately €80 for adults, €40 for children 6-12, free for children under 6.

Arrival Process

The entry process into Latvia varies depending on whether you're arriving from within or outside the Schengen Area. Travelers from non-Schengen countries will go through full passport control, while those arriving from other Schengen states typically face no routine border checks.

Document Preparation

Before approaching passport control, have your passport, visa (if required), ETIAS authorization (when implemented), boarding pass or travel documents, and any supporting documents ready for inspection.

Passport Control

Present your passport to the border guard. They will check your document's validity, verify your identity, and may stamp your passport (non-EU/EEA citizens). The officer may ask questions about your trip and request supporting documents.

Baggage Claim

Collect your checked luggage from the designated carousel. Verify all bags are present and undamaged before leaving the baggage claim area.

Customs Declaration

Choose the appropriate customs channel (green for nothing to declare, red for goods to declare). Most travelers with standard luggage can proceed through the green channel. If carrying amounts exceeding duty-free limits or restricted items, use the red channel.

Exit to Arrivals

After clearing customs, proceed to the arrivals hall where you can access transportation, currency exchange, and meet any parties waiting for you.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area and issued within the last 10 years. Must have at least 2 blank pages for stamps.

Visa or ETIAS (if required)

Depending on your nationality, you may need a Schengen visa or ETIAS authorization. Keep printed or digital copies accessible.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservations, rental agreement, or invitation letter from host. Should cover your entire stay in the Schengen Area.

Return or Onward Ticket

Evidence of your intention to leave the Schengen Area within the permitted timeframe. Can be flight, bus, train, or ferry booking.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, cash, or traveler's checks showing you can support yourself. Latvia recommends approximately €50 per day, though this varies.

Travel Insurance

Proof of travel medical insurance covering at least €30,000 in medical expenses, valid throughout the Schengen Area. Required for visa applicants; recommended for all travelers.

Purpose of Visit Documentation

Depending on your trip purpose: business invitation letters, conference registration, proof of enrollment for students, etc.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents organized and easily accessible before reaching passport control. Keep them in a folder or travel wallet rather than scattered in your bags.

Answer questions clearly, honestly, and concisely. Avoid volunteering unnecessary information, but don't appear evasive.

Dress appropriately and maintain a respectful demeanor. First impressions matter at border control.

Keep digital and physical copies of important documents. Store digital copies in cloud storage or email them to yourself for emergency access.

If you've traveled extensively in the Schengen Area, keep track of your days to ensure you don't exceed the 90-in-180-day limit. There are online calculators to help with this.

Arrive at the airport with extra time, especially during peak travel seasons when immigration queues can be longer.

If denied entry, remain calm and polite. Ask for the reason in writing and information about the appeals process.

Ensure your phone is charged and you have local emergency contact information saved or written down.

Customs & Duty-Free

Latvia follows EU customs regulations for travelers entering from non-EU countries. Those traveling from other EU member states face no routine customs checks, though random inspections may occur. Understanding duty-free allowances helps avoid delays and unexpected charges.

Alcohol (from non-EU countries)

1 liter of spirits over 22% alcohol OR 2 liters of fortified wine, sparkling wine, or alcoholic beverages under 22% alcohol OR 4 liters of still wine AND 16 liters of beer

Only for travelers aged 18 and over. These allowances apply to travelers arriving from outside the EU. No limits for personal use when traveling from other EU countries.

Tobacco (from non-EU countries)

200 cigarettes OR 100 cigarillos OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco. Can combine these proportionally.

Only for travelers aged 18 and over. These limits apply when entering from non-EU countries. Higher indicative limits exist for EU travel (800 cigarettes, 400 cigarillos, 200 cigars, or 1kg tobacco for personal use).

Currency

€10,000 or equivalent in other currencies

If carrying €10,000 or more in cash (or equivalent), you must declare it to customs using a cash declaration form. This applies whether entering or leaving the EU. Failure to declare can result in fines and confiscation.

Gifts/Goods (from non-EU countries)

€430 per person when arriving by air or sea; €300 when arriving by land

Applies to goods brought from non-EU countries for personal use or as gifts. Value is calculated based on purchase price. Goods exceeding this value are subject to customs duties and VAT.

Perfume

50g of perfume and 0.25 liters of eau de toilette

Applies when entering from non-EU countries only.

Fuel

Fuel contained in the standard tank of your vehicle, plus up to 10 liters in a portable container

Applies when entering Latvia by private vehicle.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - strict penalties including imprisonment
Counterfeit goods and pirated products - subject to confiscation
Weapons and ammunition without proper permits - requires special authorization
Endangered species products - protected under CITES regulations (ivory, certain animal skins, etc.)
Meat and dairy products from non-EU countries - with limited exceptions for small quantities
Plants and plant products from non-EU countries without phytosanitary certificates
Offensive materials including child pornography - criminal offense
Certain chemicals and hazardous materials - restricted for safety reasons

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - carry in original packaging with prescription or doctor's letter, especially for controlled substances
Large amounts of cash - must declare €10,000 or more
Cultural artifacts and antiques - may require export permits from country of origin
Commercial quantities of goods - intended for resale require commercial import procedures
Drones and radio-controlled devices - may require permits for operation
Professional equipment - may require temporary import documentation (ATA Carnet)
Pets and animals - require EU pet passports, microchips, rabies vaccination, and health certificates
Food products - strict limits on meat, dairy, and plant products from non-EU countries

Health Requirements

Latvia generally has minimal health-related entry requirements for most travelers. However, it's important to check current requirements before travel, as health regulations can change based on global health situations.

Required Vaccinations

No vaccinations are routinely required for entry into Latvia for most travelers
Yellow fever vaccination certificate required only if arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, etc.) should be up to date
Hepatitis A - recommended for most travelers
Hepatitis B - for travelers who might have intimate contact with locals or require medical procedures
Tick-borne encephalitis - recommended for travelers planning outdoor activities in rural or forested areas, especially during warmer months
Rabies - for travelers with extensive outdoor exposure or working with animals

Health Insurance

While not always checked at the border for visa-free travelers, comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended and is mandatory for visa applicants. Insurance should cover at least €30,000 in medical expenses and include emergency medical evacuation. Latvia has good healthcare facilities, but medical treatment can be expensive for non-EU citizens. EU/EEA citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for access to state healthcare at reduced cost.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 and other health requirements may change. Check the Latvian government's official website and your country's travel advisory before departure for current health entry requirements, testing, vaccination, or quarantine rules. The situation can evolve rapidly based on public health conditions. Some countries may require specific health declarations or documentation even if Latvia does not.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Latvia for assistance. Most embassies are located in Riga.

Register with your embassy's travel registration system before departure. Check your government's travel advisory website for Latvia-specific warnings and updates.

Immigration Authority - Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA)

Official Latvian immigration authority website: www.pmlp.gov.lv (available in Latvian, English, and Russian)

For visa applications, residence permits, and official immigration information. Can also contact via email or phone for specific queries.

Emergency Services

112 - Universal emergency number for police, ambulance, and fire services

Available 24/7, operators speak English. Use for life-threatening emergencies only. For non-emergency police matters, call 110.

Border Guard

State Border Guard of Latvia: www.rs.gov.lv

For questions about border crossing procedures and regulations. Phone: +371 67075933

Customs

State Revenue Service (Customs): www.vid.gov.lv

For customs-related questions, duty calculations, and prohibited items. Customs information line: +371 67120000

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (family passports are no longer accepted). Minors traveling alone or with only one parent should carry a notarized consent letter from the non-accompanying parent(s) authorizing the travel, though this is not always checked. The letter should include travel dates, destination, accompanying adult's details, and contact information. Birth certificates may be requested to prove relationship. For divorced or separated parents, custody documents may be helpful. Unaccompanied minors should check with airlines for specific policies and required documentation.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Latvia from EU countries need an EU pet passport, microchip identification, and valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel). Pets from non-EU countries require a veterinary certificate issued within 10 days of travel, microchip, rabies vaccination, and may need a rabies antibody titer test done at least 30 days after vaccination and 3 months before travel. Only dogs, cats, and ferrets are covered under simplified rules; other animals have specific requirements. Pets must enter through designated points of entry. Certain breeds may face restrictions. Airlines have their own pet travel policies. Service animals have different regulations but still need health documentation.

Extended Stays

To stay in Latvia longer than 90 days, non-EU/EEA citizens must apply for a long-stay (D) visa or residence permit before the 90-day period expires. Options include work permits (requires job offer from Latvian employer), study permits (requires acceptance to Latvian educational institution), family reunification (for family members of Latvian residents/citizens), business/investment visas, and retirement residence permits. Applications are typically made at Latvian embassies abroad or, in some cases, through the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs in Latvia. Processing can take 1-3 months. Requirements include proof of accommodation, financial means, health insurance, clean criminal record, and purpose-specific documents. EU/EEA citizens can stay indefinitely but should register with local authorities if staying over 90 days.

Business Travelers

Business travelers entering visa-free or with business visas should carry invitation letters from Latvian companies, conference registration documents, or proof of business meetings. Business activities allowed under short-stay visas typically include meetings, conferences, negotiations, and contract signing, but not paid employment. For longer business stays or work, a work permit and residence permit are required. Digital nomads working remotely for non-Latvian companies should check current regulations, as some countries have introduced specific digital nomad visa categories.

Students

Students planning to study in Latvia for more than 90 days need a long-stay student visa or residence permit. Requirements include acceptance letter from a recognized Latvian educational institution, proof of sufficient funds (approximately €430 per month), accommodation confirmation, health insurance, and clean criminal record certificate. Apply at the Latvian embassy in your home country. Processing takes 1-2 months. Students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week during term time) with their student residence permit.

Transit Passengers

Travelers transiting through Latvia to a non-Schengen country may need an airport transit visa depending on nationality. This applies even if not leaving the international transit area. However, many nationalities are exempt from airport transit visa requirements. If leaving the airport or if your onward flight is more than 24 hours later, standard visa requirements apply. Transit passengers should carry documents for their final destination (visas, etc.) as well as confirmed onward tickets.

Dual Citizens

If you hold dual citizenship including an EU/EEA country, you must use your EU/EEA passport when entering Latvia. Using a non-EU passport when you have EU citizenship can cause complications. Always use the same passport for entry and exit. If one passport expires during your trip, carry both the expired and new passport to show continuity of identity.