Since July 4, Latvia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has maintained a selective visa policy for Russian nationals at its diplomatic and consular missions abroad. This stance follows a careful review of security considerations and consultations with regional partners and neighboring states. The policy aims to balance safety concerns with practical travel needs in specific, justified cases. (Source: Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Eligible applicants include immediate family members of Latvian residents and citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland. In addition, the policy facilitates visa access for humanitarian reasons. Such circumstances cover scenarios like a seriously ill relative, attendance at a funeral, or situations where a person’s life could be at risk while traveling. The intent is to ensure that compassionate cases can be addressed in an orderly, controlled manner while maintaining national security. (Source: Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Latvian representations abroad have paused broad-based visa processing for Russian nationals in response to evolving events in the Russian Federation and related regional developments. This pause reflects ongoing assessments of risk, with the goal of aligning visa procedures with the country’s security posture and international commitments. (Source: Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Earlier, President Edgars Rinkēvičs stated a decision to halt the issuance of all visa types to Russian citizens, underscoring Latvia’s approach to visa policy during this period. The measure is part of a broader strategy to address security concerns while supporting legitimate humanitarian and family needs where appropriate. (Source: Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
The situation highlights the careful balance Latvia seeks to strike between safeguarding national security and preserving avenues for lawful and essential travel for qualified individuals. Applicants are advised to stay informed through official channels and to prepare documentation that clearly demonstrates eligibility under the defined humanitarian or family-related criteria. (Source: Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
This evolving policy is part of a broader regional context in which Latvia coordinates with neighboring states and EU partners to ensure consistent and lawful visa practices. Officials emphasize that changes are made with due consideration of security implications and international obligations, while aiming to minimize disruption for those who meet the specific criteria. (Source: Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
In summary, Latvia continues to accept a limited set of visa applications from Russian nationals, focusing on humanitarian exceptions and family reunification for EU and EEA members. The government remains engaged in ongoing evaluations and corresponding communications to ensure transparency and fairness in the application process while maintaining safeguards that reflect current security dynamics. (Source: Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs)