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2 ways to enter

Latvia visas

Latvia transit visa

Most passengers can change flights at one Latvian airport without a visa if they stay in the international transit area for less than one day. Some nationalities need an airport transit visa even when staying there.

Ways to get a Latvia transit visa

  1. Airport transfer without a visa

    Transit without a visa

    Passengers who are not subject to the airport transit visa requirement, or who meet an exemption, can make a qualifying transfer.

    Stay
    Less than 24 hours.

Who needs it

Citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, DR Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia and Sri Lanka need an airport transit visa unless an exemption applies.

Who doesn't

Other nationalities generally do not need a visa for a qualifying airport transfer. Listed nationalities can also qualify for exemptions based on visas, residence permits, family status, diplomatic passports or flight-crew status.

Changing planes

Can you stay airside?
Yes, without a visa if you stay in the transit area
Leaving the airport
The transit exemption only covers transfers that stay inside the international transit area. Leaving that area requires permission to enter Latvia under the normal entry rules.
Longest transit
24 hours
Transit without a visa
Stay for strictly less than 24 hours, use one airport, and transfer without leaving its international transit area. Your flights and the airport layout must allow this. Travellers subject to the airport transit visa requirement need a separate exemption.

Good to know

  • Remain inside the international transit area when relying on the airport transit exemption.
  • Latvia adds no nationalities beyond the common 12-country airport transit list.
  • An airport transit visa covers an airport transfer. It does not replace permission to enter Latvia.
  • The general transit exemption is for less than 24 hours, not a full 24-hour stay.

Questions

Do I need a transit visa for Latvia?

Citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, DR Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia and Sri Lanka need an airport transit visa unless an exemption applies. Other nationalities generally do not need a visa for a qualifying airport transfer. Listed nationalities can also qualify for exemptions based on visas, residence permits, family status, diplomatic passports or flight-crew status.

What are the ways to get a transit visa for Latvia?

There are 2 options: Airport transfer without a visa (transit without a visa); Airport transit visa (a visa from an embassy).

How long can I stay on a Latvia transit visa?

For the general visa-free airport transfer, less than one day.

How long can I stay in transit in Latvia?

Up to 24 hours, if you meet the conditions. Stay for strictly less than 24 hours, use one airport, and transfer without leaving its international transit area. Your flights and the airport layout must allow this. Travellers subject to the airport transit visa requirement need a separate exemption.

Can I stay inside the airport in Latvia without a visa?

Yes, staying in the international transit area is allowed for most travellers. To leave the airport: The transit exemption only covers transfers that stay inside the international transit area. Leaving that area requires permission to enter Latvia under the normal entry rules.

What rules do I have to follow on a Latvia transit visa?

Remain inside the international transit area when relying on the airport transit exemption. Latvia adds no nationalities beyond the common 12-country airport transit list.

Does my passport change whether I need a transit visa for Latvia?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Latvia visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a transit visa for Latvia be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Latvia transit visa rules?

On Latvia's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my transit visa once I am in Latvia?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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