Latvia extends visa restrictions for Belarusians and Russians for one year

The Latvian government has approved the proposal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the country to extend restrictions on the acceptance of visa applications for citizens of Belarus and Russia until December 31, 2027. It's from sb.by.

According to the Latvian media, the restrictions were in effect until the end of 2026, but they were decided to keep for another year. Exceptions for certain categories of citizens will remain in force.

Belarusian citizens will continue to apply for long-term visas. A separate list of exceptions is established for short-term visas under the EU Visa Code. It includes relatives of Latvian citizens, family members of Belarusian citizens who have a valid right to reside in Latvia. The short-term visa application will also be available to employees of the transport industry and passenger transportation, crew members of cargo and technical flights, seafarers traveling to the place of work on the ship or returning after completion of service. Also, a visa can be obtained in connection with a serious illness or the death of a close relative.

Exceptions apply to certain categories of diplomatic and consular personnel, their family members, diplomatic couriers and specialists sent for the maintenance of embassies.

The Latvian authorities may prematurely cancel, reduce or extend these restrictions.

Residents of eastern regions received notification of possible air threat in Latvia