Do I Need ETIAS for Latvia? A Complete Guide for Travelers

A stunning Baltic country in Europe, Latvia sees thousands of travelers each and every year. Famous for its stunning sandy beaches, brightly colored art nouveau architecture, and perfected beer brewing processes, it’s easy to see why travelers fall in love with Latvia time and time again. 

If you’re planning a trip to Latvia, it’s important to understand what the travel requirements are for your upcoming visit. European travel requisites continue to change and evolve, which can make it feel confusing to know what is needed and what isn’t. We’re here to help. 

In this article, we’ll walk you through what you need to know about ETIAS and how it applies to your upcoming travels to Riga, Daugavpils, or wherever it is you’re headed to in Latvia.

Do I need ETIAS to visit Latvia?

Yes, from 2025 on, you will need ETIAS to visit Latvia if you are from a visa-exempt country (this includes US citizens).

Some countries have visa-waiver agreements with the Schengen area (which includes Latvia). Visa-exempt countries include the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and others, meaning citizens from these countries do not need to obtain a visa to travel to Latvia. 

However, with the introduction of ETIAS, these travelers will need to apply for travel authorization before visiting any country in the Schengen area, which Latvia is.

It’s important not to confuse ETIAS approval for a visa. ETIAS is a travel authorization, which essentially permits you to enter the Schengen area. It does not allow you to work, study, or stay in Latvia for longer than 90 days. If this is the case for you, you will need to apply for the appropriate Latvian visa. 

If you are a citizen of a Schengen member country or hold a valid Schengen visa, you do not need to apply for ETIAS to visit Latvia. Additionally, if you’re a citizen of a country that does not have a visa-waiver agreement (this includes India, China, Russia, and others), you do not need to apply for ETIAS. Instead, you need to apply for a visa. 

Do I need ETIAS if I have a Latvia visa?

No, you don’t need ETIAS if you hold a valid Latvia visa (Schengen visa). Travelers need either a Schengen visa OR ETIAS.

How to apply for ETIAS for Latvia

Applying for ETIAS to travel to Latvia takes place entirely online in just a few minutes. Make sure you have your travel details, passport, and debit/credit card handy. 

• Step one. Fill out the form on ETIAS with your travel details, name, nationality, and passport number.
• Step two. Answer questions related to your personal background, such as your highest level of education and your occupation. You can learn more here.
• Step four. Pay the ETIAS application fee (expect to pay 7 euros with your debit or credit card).
• Step five. Submit your form and wait for approval. In most cases, approval takes only a couple of minutes. In some cases, approval can take up to 30 days, so plan accordingly. 
• Step six. Your approved ETIAS will be automatically, digitally linked to your passport. When you pass through border control, authorities will be able to see that you have been permitted to enter the Schengen area when your passport is scanned. With that being said, it never hurts to have a paper copy, just in case. 

What happens if my ETIAS for Latvia is denied? 

In the event of refusal, you’ll receive an email detailing the reason(s). In this email, you’ll also be given instructions on how to appeal the decision. Unfortunately, you will not be able to travel to Latvia without ETIAS approval. 

How long is my Latvia ETIAS valid for? 

Your ETIAS is valid for three years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. If you need to renew your passport or get a new one for whatever reason, you will need to reapply for ETIAS.

If I get an ETIAS for Latvia, can I travel to other Schengen countries with it?

According to the EU website, a valid ETIAS does permit you to travel throughout the Schengen area and Cyprus. With that being said, it does not guarantee entry. Border guards can still deny you entry.

ETIAS for Latvia: Key Takeaways

• ETIAS is required for visitors to Latvia who do not have a Schengen visa/passport from 2025 on. 
• The ETIAS application is online and only takes a few minutes. 
• Once approved, your ETIAS is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first.
• Latvian/Schengen country citizens do not need ETIAS.
• Current Latvia visa holders do not need ETIAS.
• The ETIAS application costs 7 euros (but is free for those under the age of 18 or over 70).
• ETIAS is not a visa; it’s a travel authorization that permits you to enter a Schengen country. 
• ETIAS is valid for travel by air, land, or sea. 
• ETIAS permits you to enter any Schengen country and Cyprus, but entry isn’t guaranteed and will be decided by local border guards. 
• You can appeal a denied ETIAS application. 
• Approval is usually immediate but can take up to 30 days, so plan accordingly.