Latvia Visa RequirementsFor Belarus passport holders
Belarusian passport holders require a Schengen short-stay visa to enter Latvia. The visa costs approximately EUR 80 (around USD 87). Latvia, which shares a border with Belarus, has been one of the strongest proponents of EU sanctions on Belarus.
Belarus passport holders require a visa to enter Latvia.
Apply at the Latvian embassy. Required documents include a valid passport, application form, travel insurance (EUR 30,000 minimum), accommodation proof, return ticket, and comprehensive financial and purpose-of-travel documentation. Given the sensitive political relationship, a very detailed cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit is essential.
Latvia is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Valid Passport
A valid Belarus passport with at least 6 months of validity beyond your planned departure date from Latvia. Typically must have at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps.
Completed Visa Application Form
The official visa application form for Latvia, fully completed in English or the local language. Available at the embassy or on the consulate website.
Passport-Sized Photos
Recent passport photos (typically 2, 35x45mm, white background, taken within the last 6 months) as specified in the Latvia visa requirements.
Return or Onward Ticket
A confirmed return or onward air ticket from Latvia, demonstrating your intention to leave within the visa duration.
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel booking confirmations, invitation letter from a host, or other documentation confirming where you will stay during your entire visit to Latvia.
Bank Statements
Original bank statements from the past 3-6 months showing consistent financial activity and sufficient funds to cover your stay in Latvia without needing to work.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance valid for Latvia covering medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation. For Schengen visas, minimum EUR 30,000 coverage is required.
Proof of Employment or Study Recommended
Employment letter, payslips, business registration, or student enrollment confirmation demonstrating your professional or academic ties to Belarus, indicating your intention to return home.
Current Travel Situation
Belarus to Latvia: What You Need to Know
Latvia is an EU and Schengen member that shares a border with Belarus. Latvia has been particularly active in implementing EU sanctions and has strong views on the Belarusian political situation. Belarusian visa applications face significant scrutiny at Latvian consulates. However, Latvia has also offered humanitarian pathways for Belarusian dissidents and civil society members.
How to Get There
Latvia has offered special pathways for Belarusian activists and dissidents. If this applies to you, contact the Latvian embassy for specific guidance.
Money & Banking
Latvia uses the euro (EUR). Riga is affordable; budget EUR 40-80 per day.
Practical Tips
Riga is a beautiful Baltic capital. Note that the Latvia-Belarus land border crossing at Silene and others have been subject to restrictions. Travel to Latvia from Minsk now requires going via third countries such as Turkey or the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Belarus passport holders need a visa to visit Latvia?
Yes. Belarus passport holders require a tourist visa to visit Latvia. The visa costs approximately USD 87 and allows stays up to 90 days.
Where do Belarus citizens apply for a Latvia visa?
Apply at the Latvia embassy or consulate in your region. Some countries allow online or postal applications. If Latvia has no embassy in Belarus, apply at the embassy responsible for your country or a regional office.
What documents are required for a Latvia visa application?
Typically required: valid Belarus passport (6+ months validity), completed visa application form, recent passport photos, proof of accommodation, return or onward flight ticket, bank statements showing sufficient funds, and travel insurance. Some applications may require additional documents such as an invitation letter or employment verification.
How long does a Latvia visa application take to process?
Latvia tourist visa processing typically takes 5-15 business days, depending on the embassy and the volume of applications. Apply well in advance, ideally 4-6 weeks before your travel date.
How much does a Latvia tourist visa cost for Belarus citizens?
The Latvia tourist visa fee for Belarus citizens is approximately USD 87. Fees may vary by embassy location and visa type (single entry vs. multiple entry).
Can I get a visa on arrival in Latvia instead of applying in advance?
Belarus passport holders are not eligible for visa on arrival in Latvia. You must apply for a visa in advance at the Latvia embassy or consulate before your trip.
What are the main reasons for Latvia visa rejection for Belarus citizens?
Common reasons for visa rejection include incomplete documentation, insufficient financial proof, lack of strong ties to home country (employment, property, family), unclear travel purpose, or previous immigration violations. A strong, well-documented application significantly improves approval chances.
Can I extend my Latvia tourist visa once I arrive?
Extension policies vary. In most cases, tourist visas must be extended before expiry by applying to Latvia's immigration authority. Some countries allow in-country extensions while others require you to exit and re-enter on a new visa.