The Government of Latvia has announced that amendments to Article 4.⁴ of the Immigration Law will come into effect on September 1, 2025. Under the new regulations, third-country nationals who do not hold a Latvian visa or residence permit will be required to submit personal details and information about the purpose of their travel to the State Threat Prevention Information System via eta.gov.lv before entering Latvia.
According to the authorities, the measure is aimed at strengthening national security and enhancing border protection by enabling early risk identification. The system will allow the Latvian government to better anticipate and respond to potential threats before individuals arrive in the country.
Exemptions
The obligation to register does not apply to:
Citizens of the European Union, NATO, OECD, EEA member states, the Swiss Confederation, or Brazil who do not hold a Latvian visa or residence permit.
Third-country nationals already in possession of a Latvian visa or residence permit.
Persons with diplomatic immunity, or those arriving briefly for official duties, including transit or technical support for diplomatic or consular missions.
Stateless persons granted such status by one of the countries listed in Section 4.⁴, Part One of the Immigration Law.
Registration Rules
Registration is compulsory for all other foreign nationals and must be completed at least 48 hours before arrival, even for transit through Latvia. Travellers will be required to provide information such as the purpose of their visit, length and place of stay, travel route, contact details, positions held in public office (by themselves or relatives), electoral participation, service in armed forces, law enforcement, or diplomatic institutions.
Once submitted, the system will generate an automatic notification within 48 hours, and no separate permit will be required. In case of changed travel plans, updated details must also be submitted at least 48 hours before entry.
Authorities have clarified that the information must be submitted personally by the traveller and not by a third party. Failure to register, or providing incomplete or false information will attract administrative penalties.