Russia Visa Requirements for Latvian Citizens

Do Latvian citizens need a visa to travel to Russia?

If you’re a Latvian passport holder planning to visit Russia, you will need a visa to enter the country. Latvia doesn’t have a visa exemption agreement for ordinary passports, so whether your trip is for tourism, business, or visiting friends, a visa is mandatory.

Also, don’t forget: your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your Russian visa expires.

Visa options for Latvian travelers

Here’s a breakdown of the available visa types for Latvian citizens:

Let’s take a closer look at each visa.

The electronic visa (eVisa)

Latvian citizens are eligible for the Russian unified electronic visa (eVisa), which allows entry into all regions of Russia, including Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kaliningrad, and more.

The eVisa permits a stay of up to 30 days and can be used for:

• Tourism
• Business visits
• Private visits to friends or relatives
• Attending cultural, scientific, sports, or academic events
• Humanitarian reasons

✅ The application process is fully online, so you won’t need to visit a Russian consulate or visa center.
✅ The visa is sent via email as a PDF; you can print it or save it on your phone.
✅ No invitation or hotel booking required, but travel medical insurance is mandatory for Latvian citizens under Russian visa rules.

👉 I’ve prepared a step-by-step guide to applying for the Russian eVisa.

✍️ The unified e-visa covers tourism, business, private visits, and participation in cultural, scientific, socio-political, economic, or sports events. If your visit doesn’t fall under these purposes, you must apply for a regular visa.

⚠️ You must apply no earlier than 86 days and no later than 4 days before your travel date.

The regular visa

For longer stays or purposes not covered by the eVisa, you’ll need a regular visa.

Important points:

• Apply through a Russian consulate or visa center. Find your nearest office here.
• Fill out the visa application form at visa.kdmid.ru.
• You’ll need an official invitation (visa support letter), which you can obtain here.
• Apply at least 3–4 weeks before your planned trip, as processing takes time.

The most common type is the tourist visa, valid for up to 30 days, but other types (business, private, humanitarian, study, work) are also available.

👉 For full instructions, check my Russian visa guide section.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes, for Latvian citizens, travel medical insurance is mandatory for both the eVisa and regular visa applications. Your policy must be approved by Russian authorities.

✅ You can get insurance that meets Russian requirements here.

Immigration card and registration

When you enter Russia, you’ll receive an immigration card at the border. You’ll need to present this card when you leave, so keep it safe! More info here.

If you’re staying in one place for more than 7 business days, you’ll need to register your stay. Hotels will do this automatically, but if you stay in a private home, your host must handle it. Find details here.

Key tips for Latvian travelers

✅ Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your visa expires.
✅ Submit your eVisa application at least 4 days before your departure.
✅ For regular visas, apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel.
✅ Always carry your printed visa, insurance, and passport.
✅ Enter Russia only through approved border checkpoints for eVisa holders.

👉 For more detailed information, visit my visa guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Latvian citizens need a visa to travel to Russia?
Yes, a visa is required for Latvian passport holders.

Can Latvians apply for a Russian eVisa?
Yes, Latvia is eligible for the unified eVisa, valid for stays up to 30 days.

Is travel insurance mandatory?
Yes, travel medical insurance approved by Russian authorities is mandatory for both the eVisa and regular visa for Latvian citizens.

How far in advance should I apply for the eVisa?
At least 4 days before your departure, and no earlier than 86 days before your trip.