United Kingdom Visa RequirementsFor Latvia passport holders
Latvian passport holders can travel to the United Kingdom without a visa for stays of up to 180 days (6 months) per visit.
Great news! Latvia passport holders can enter United Kingdom without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 180 days.
No visa required. Latvian citizens present their passport at the UK border. Admission is for up to 6 months per visit at the discretion of the UK Border Force. Note: the UK is introducing an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for visa-free nationals including EU citizens. Check GOV.UK for current ETA requirements before travel.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Latvia to United Kingdom: What You Need to Know
Latvia joined the European Union in 2004, and the UK maintained visa-free access for EU citizens after Brexit in 2020. The UK is home to one of the largest Latvian diaspora communities in Europe, with an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 Latvians living in the UK, primarily in London, Birmingham, and other major cities. UK-Latvia relations are close through NATO membership, with the UK leading the NATO Enhanced Forward Presence battlegroup stationed in Latvia.
How to Get There
Riga International Airport (RIX) has direct flights to London Gatwick, London Stansted, Edinburgh, and Manchester via airBaltic, Ryanair, and easyJet. Journey time is approximately 3 hours. Budget airlines keep fares competitive given the large Latvian community in the UK.
Money & Banking
Currency is the British Pound (GBP). Cards are accepted virtually everywhere in the UK. Contactless payment is standard. Budget 80-120 GBP per day for mid-range travel. London is significantly more expensive. Tipping 10-15% is expected in restaurants.
Practical Tips
Carry proof of accommodation and onward travel. UK Border Force may question lengthy stays without clear purpose. The UK operates its own currency (GBP): exchange before departure or use ATMs on arrival. Direct flights connect Riga to multiple UK airports. If visiting family or friends, an invitation letter can be helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Latvian citizens need a visa to visit the UK?
No. Latvian passport holders can visit the UK without a visa for up to 180 days (6 months) per visit.
How long can Latvians stay in the UK without a visa?
Up to 180 days (6 months) per visit. This does not permit work; employment requires a separate UK work visa.
Is there a large Latvian community in the UK?
Yes. An estimated 100,000 to 200,000 Latvians live in the UK, mainly in London, Birmingham, and other major cities, making it one of Europe's largest Latvian diaspora communities.
Do Latvians need an ETA for the UK?
The UK is phasing in an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for visa-free visitors including EU nationals. Check GOV.UK for current requirements before travel.
What currency does the UK use?
The British Pound Sterling (GBP). Cards are accepted almost everywhere; contactless payment is standard. Budget around 80-120 GBP per day for mid-range travel.
Are there direct flights from Latvia to the UK?
Yes. Riga (RIX) has direct flights to London Gatwick, London Stansted, Edinburgh, and Manchester with airBaltic, Ryanair, and easyJet. Flight time is about 3 hours.
What should I carry when entering the UK from Latvia?
A valid biometric passport, return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay.