Latvia Visa Requirements
For ๐บ๐ธ United States passport holders
Great news! United States passport holders can enter Latvia without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Starting late 2026, US citizens will need ETIAS authorization (โฌ7, valid 3 years) before traveling to the Schengen Area. 90-day limit within 180 days applies to entire Schengen zone.
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 โ
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Valid US Passport
Must be valid for at least 3-6 months beyond your planned departure date (varies by country)
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of departure from the country, such as a return flight or onward travel booking
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel reservation, Airbnb booking, or address where you will be staying
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Credit cards, bank statements, or cash to cover expenses during your stay
Travel Insurance Recommended
Recommended for all international travel covering medical emergencies
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Routine vaccinations should be up to date. Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine recommended for nature activities.
Tap Water
Safe to drink
Safety Tips
Latvia is very safe for travelers. Petty crime is rare. Take normal precautions in Riga's Old Town and train station areas. Winter driving can be challenging. Be cautious with unmarked taxis.
Money & Costs
Currency
โฌ Euro (EUR)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $45 ยท Mid: $100 ยท Luxury: $250+
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Round up or leave 5-10% for good service.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, F, 230V
Driving
Right side
Emergency
112 (all emergencies), 110 (police), 113 (ambulance)
Getting There
Main Airports
Riga (RIX)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
May to September offers the best weather with temperatures around 20-25ยฐC. Midsummer (June 23-24) is magical with traditional celebrations. December brings atmospheric Christmas markets. Winter is cold but offers snowy landscapes.
Cultural Notes
Latvians tend to be reserved but warm up quickly. Nature is almost sacred - the forests and lakes hold deep cultural significance. The Song and Dance Festival every 5 years is a UNESCO tradition. Midsummer (Jฤลi) is the biggest celebration.
Insider Tips
Riga is compact and walkable. Renting a car is best for exploring castles and national parks. Black Balsam is the local herbal liqueur - try it in coffee. Latvians love nature - hiking and mushroom picking are popular activities.