Brian GeekThe Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia provides an official list of countries where Latvian citizens can travel without a visa, along with the permitted duration of stay for each destination.
Please note that visa requirements can change, and it’s essential to verify the current entry requirements of your destination before traveling. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia or contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country.
What Countries Do Latvia Citizens Need A Visa For?
Countries Requiring a Visa Prior to Arrival:
- Afghanistan
- Algeria
- Central African Republic
- Chad
- Congo
- Cuba
- Eritrea
- Ghana
- Guyana
- Kiribati
- Liberia
- Mali
- Nauru
- Niger
- North Korea
- Somalia
- South Africa
- Sudan
- Turkmenistan
- Yemen
For these countries, Latvian passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling.
Countries Offering Visa on Arrival or Electronic Visas (eVisas):
In addition to visa-free destinations, Latvian citizens can obtain visas upon arrival or apply for eVisas for several countries. The availability and requirements for visa on arrival or eVisas vary by country. It’s essential to check the specific entry requirements of the destination country before planning your trip.
Special Considerations:
- United States: Latvian citizens can travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program for stays up to 90 days. However, they must obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before departure.
- Australia: An eVisitor visa is required, allowing stays up to 90 days. Applications should be completed online before travel.
- Canada: An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is necessary for air travel, permitting stays up to six months. Applications are submitted online prior to departure.
- China: As of November 30, 2024, to December 31, 2025, Latvian citizens can enter China visa-free.
Visa requirements can change, so it’s crucial to consult the official government or embassy websites of your destination country before traveling. Additionally, some countries may have specific entry requirements, such as proof of vaccination or travel insurance.
Do Latvians Need Visa For America?
Yes, Latvian citizens need a visa or authorization to travel to the United States, depending on the purpose and length of their visit. Latvia is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which means Latvian citizens can travel to the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit purposes for up to 90 days without a visa, but they must first obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
Key Points:
- ESTA (Visa Waiver Program):
- For trips up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit.
- Must apply online before traveling.
- ESTA is valid for two years or until the passport expires.
- Visa:
- If traveling for purposes not covered under the VWP (e.g., work, study, immigration), Latvians must apply for a specific U.S. visa (e.g., B1/B2, F-1, H-1B).
- Requires an appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Ensure your ESTA or visa is approved before booking flights
Do Latvians Need Visa For Europe?
Latvia is a member of the European Union (EU) and part of the Schengen Area. This means:
- Latvian citizens do not need a visa to travel within other Schengen Area countries for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).
- Latvians can travel freely within the EU and Schengen countries using just their national ID card or passport.
- For longer stays (e.g., for work, study, or residency), specific permits may be required depending on the country and purpose of stay.
Countries That Gives Visa On Arrival For Latvia Passport Holders?
Africa:
- Burkina Faso
- Comoros
- Egypt
- Guinea-Bissau
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Mauritania
- Mozambique
- Rwanda
- Sierra Leone
- Somalia
- Tanzania
- Togo
- Uganda
- Zimbabwe
Asia:
- Bahrain
- Bangladesh
- Cambodia
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Kuwait
- Laos
- Lebanon
- Maldives
- Nepal
- Saudi Arabia
- Sri Lanka
Oceania:
- Palau
- Samoa
- Solomon Islands
- Tonga
- Tuvalu
Caribbean:
- Jamaica
Please note that visa requirements can change, and it’s essential to verify the current entry requirements before traveling. Additionally, some countries may offer both visa on arrival and eVisa options; in such cases, obtaining an eVisa prior to travel can expedite the entry process.
For the most up-to-date information, consult the official websites of the destination country’s embassy or consulate.
Traveling To UK For Latvia Passport Holders?
As a Latvian passport holder planning to travel to the United Kingdom, it’s important to be aware of the upcoming changes in entry requirements. Starting from April 2, 2025, Latvian citizens will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before traveling to the UK. Applications for the ETA will open on March 5, 2025.
Key Points:
- ETA Requirement: The ETA is mandatory for visa-exempt travelers visiting the UK for up to six months for purposes such as tourism, business, short-term study, or permitted paid engagements. This includes all travelers, regardless of age, so each member of your travel party will need to obtain an individual ETA.
- Application Process: You can apply for the ETA online or via a mobile application. The process involves providing personal information, passport details, and answering questions related to your travel. The application fee is £10, and decisions are typically made within three working days. Once approved, the ETA is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
- Travel Without ETA: Until April 2, 2025, Latvian citizens can continue to travel to the UK without an ETA, provided they meet the existing entry requirements. However, it’s advisable to stay updated on any changes to travel regulations as your planned travel date approaches.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to the official UK government guidance on the Electronic Travel Authorization system
Traveling To Australia For Latvia Passport Holders?
Australia is a popular destination for travelers worldwide, including those from Latvia. Its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife make it an exciting choice for visitors. Latvia passport holders can enjoy a relatively straightforward process for entering Australia, but there are specific requirements and considerations to keep in mind.
Latvian passport holders require a visa to enter Australia. The most common visa for short-term stays is the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or the eVisitor Visa (subclass 651).
- eVisitor Visa (subclass 651):
- Eligibility: Citizens of European Union countries, including Latvia.
- Purpose: Designed for tourism, business purposes, or family visits.
- Duration: Allows a stay of up to three months per visit within a 12-month period.
- Application Process: Apply online through the Australian Department of Home Affairs website. There’s no fee for the visa itself, but a small service charge may apply.
- Processing Time: Usually processed within a few days.
Other visa options are available if you plan to work, study, or stay longer in Australia.
Travel Document Requirements
- Valid Passport: Your Latvian passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Australia.
- Visa Approval: Ensure your visa is granted before boarding your flight.
- Return or Onward Ticket: While not always checked, it’s recommended to have proof of onward travel or a return ticket to demonstrate your intent to leave Australia after your visit.
Australia’s entry requirements may include health-related conditions:
- COVID-19 Regulations: Ensure you check for updated COVID-19 requirements, such as vaccination proof or testing (if applicable), as these may vary depending on government policies.
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended, as healthcare costs in Australia can be expensive. Look for coverage that includes medical emergencies, accidents, and COVID-related issues.
- Quarantine Rules: Depending on your health status or current regulations, you might need to comply with quarantine protocols upon arrival.
Customs and Biosecurity
Australia has strict biosecurity laws to protect its environment and agriculture. Declare all items that might be prohibited, including:
- Food: Meat, dairy, fruits, and seeds.
- Plants and Wooden Items: Raw or untreated products are often restricted.
- Medications: Carry prescriptions for any medications and declare them if necessary.
Failure to declare items can lead to fines or legal consequences.
Travel Tips for Latvia Passport Holders
Flights:
- Most flights from Latvia to Australia require at least one stopover, commonly in cities like Dubai, Doha, or Singapore.
- Book your tickets early, as flights to Australia can be expensive, especially during peak travel seasons.
Time Difference:
- Be prepared for a significant time difference. Australia’s time zones range from GMT+8 to GMT+11, depending on your destination and the time of year.
Climate and Packing:
- Australia’s climate varies widely. The north is tropical, while the south experiences distinct seasons. Pack accordingly based on the time of year and the regions you plan to visit.
Currency:
- The local currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash for smaller vendors or rural areas is advisable.
Exploring Australia
Popular Destinations:
- Sydney: Iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
- Melbourne: Renowned for its art, culture, and coffee scene.
- Great Barrier Reef: A must-visit for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
- Uluru: Experience the rich Aboriginal culture and stunning landscapes.
Transportation:
- Public transportation is efficient in major cities.
- For exploring remote areas, consider renting a car or campervan. Ensure your Latvian driver’s license is valid and translated into English if needed.
Cultural Etiquette
Australians are known for their friendly and laid-back nature. Some tips to fit in:
- Respect local customs and indigenous cultures.
- Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
- Casual attire is generally acceptable, but dress appropriately for fine dining or business meetings.
Emergency Contacts
- Emergency Services: Dial 000 for police, ambulance, or fire services.
- Latvian Embassy or Consulate: Latvia does not have an embassy in Australia, but you can seek assistance from the EU delegation or honorary consulates if needed.
Related
- Lao Passport Visa Free Countries (2025)
- Liechtenstein Passport Visa Free Countries (2025)
- Liberia Passport Visa Free Countries (2025)
- Libyan Passport Visa Free Countries (2025)
- Lithuania Passport Visa Free Countries (2025)
Conclusion
Latvian passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries worldwide. The exact number of accessible destinations varies slightly depending on the source, with estimates ranging from 184 to 190 countries.