From September 1, 2025, Latvia Introduces New Entry Rules for Ukrainians

Starting September 1, 2025, Latvia will implement new requirements for citizens of Ukraine and other third countries when entering its territory. From now on, travelers to Latvia must fill out an online form with detailed information about their purpose, route, and place of stay in the country before their journey.

This is reported by AgroReview

Mandatory Electronic Declaration Before Travel

According to the new rules, travelers must submit an electronic form on the website eta.gov.lv at least 48 hours before crossing the Latvian border. This applies to both direct and transit trips through Latvia, regardless of the duration of stay. In the absence of a completed form upon entry, a fine of up to 2000 euros (96,549 UAH) may be imposed.

The form is personal and can only be submitted in one’s own name. It requires specifying the purpose of the trip, duration of stay, route, place of residence in Latvia, and, if necessary, information about service in government structures or participation in elections. After successfully submitting the form, the system automatically sends a confirmation to the email address provided. No additional permits or waiting for decisions from Latvian authorities are needed.

Who the New Requirements Apply To and Possible Exceptions

The requirements apply to citizens of Ukraine who:

• plan to enter Latvia directly;
• are traveling in transit through the country;
• have temporary protection in the EU or a residence permit in another EU country.

The changes also affect citizens of Russia, other countries outside the EU, NATO, OECD, as well as Switzerland and Brazil. Compliance with the rules will be checked not only at the border but also within Latvia. In case of doubts, security service representatives may require confirmation of the form submission.

“Without this document, entry into the country will be considered a violation, and the traveler may face a fine of up to 2000 euros.”

Exceptions are provided only for individuals with diplomatic immunity and participants in short-term official visits. For Ukrainians who frequently visit Latvia for personal or work reasons, the new procedure may become an additional bureaucratic formality. This will particularly affect transit journeys, as filling out the form is mandatory even for short stays.

Latvian authorities emphasize that the new system is aimed at strengthening entry control and enhancing security, as well as allowing for quicker identification of travelers and preventing potential threats.