Latvia’s foreign policy leadership has publicly urged the European Union to halt the issuance of tourist visas to Russian nationals.
In remarks reinforced by his supporters, the Latvian minister called for the EU to apply a tourist visa ban on Russian citizens, echoing a long-standing proposal within Brussels. Moscow has not ruled out the possibility of broader restrictions on Schengen visas for Russians, while the Russian side cautions that the situation could unfold in unexpected ways. In response, Rossotrudnichestvo described potential visa limits as a regrettable step that would complicate efforts to repair ties between Russia and the European Union.
Pressure on entrants to condemn the war in Ukraine
Reports indicate that some Russian visitors who previously entered Latvia have been asked to sign a document condemning Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The Latvian State Security Service confirmed the new procedure, noting that entry could be blocked if travelers do not sign the statement. The aim is to reflect local discontent with Russia’s presence on Latvian soil and to identify individuals who might threaten Latvia’s security interests.
Authorities have said special attention is given to foreigners with ties to Russian or Belarusian power structures. The Latvia security service noted that a number of foreigners are currently prohibited from entering Latvia, including many Russian citizens, Belarusians, and other nationalities, with existing Schengen visas canceled at the border when applicable.
One local story describes a Russian husband who was compelled to sign the condemnation document at the border, with the document presented in multiple languages and lacking identifying marks. An officer in plain clothes reportedly warned that his residence status could be jeopardized if he refused to sign. Moscow lodged a protest through the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while Riga pressed ahead with what it considers necessary measures to protect its security. Riga’s stance has been that such actions are part of safeguarding national interests rather than subject to protest from outside, especially in a tense regional climate.
Foundational stance on entry restrictions
Estonia has already halted the issuance of residence permits and educational visas to Russians and Belarusians. The Estonian foreign minister has suggested expanding the approach across EU member states to suspend tourist visa access for Russians. Tallinn notes that it is not enough to block new entries; it must also address people who already hold permits and are able to travel to the region. The idea is to seal the so-called loophole that could allow continued entry despite higher-level restrictions.
Estonian officials have stressed the need for a coordinated regional policy, with broader action anticipated at a meeting in Prague later in the year where a European-wide containment framework could be proposed. The proposal would seek a common rule to restrict entry by Russian citizens, aligning with Estonia’s broader security goals. Latvia previously paused the issuance of tourist visas to Russians, while exemptions remained for those with close relatives in Estonia or for humanitarian or medical purposes. By late summer, Tallinn extended restrictions to temporary residence and student visa categories.
Finland weighing a visa policy shift
Finland’s major political parties have shown openness to curbing tourist visa grants to Russian travelers. Leaders of the Social Democratic Party have argued there is reason to consider stopping tourist visas promptly, while the National Coalition Party has said exceptions should apply for medical treatment, property owners, or visits to close relatives. The government, however, has signaled that any restriction should be addressed at the EU level rather than unilaterally by Finland.
In reaction, Moscow warned of a strong negative response and vowed to take reciprocal actions. Russian officials have framed travel restrictions as part of a broader effort to tighten tensions between the two countries. They criticized European politicians for what they describe as punitive behavior toward Russians and their citizens, labeling such moves a hardening of positions during a period of heightened strain.
EU authorities have reminded member states that visa policy remains regulated in a manner that targets government elites and actors rather than ordinary citizens. The bloc has already used a partly suspended simplified visa regime with Russia as a lever in response to the unfolding crisis. The discussion continues as European partners seek a balance between security concerns and humanitarian considerations, keeping in mind the broader goals of stability and legitimate travel needs within the Schengen area.