Starting September 1, 2025, all travelers entering Latvia will be required to complete an electronic entry form at least 48 hours before arrival. This applies even when arriving from another Schengen country and affects mainly third-country nationals who are not citizens of the EU, NATO, OECD, the European Economic Area, Switzerland, or Brazil.

Who is affected?

The requirement applies to third-country nationals without a Latvian visa or residence permit, including drivers entering Latvia who are not citizens of exempt countries. Citizens of Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Georgia, Armenia, and other nations will need to comply with this procedure.

What information is required?

Drivers and travelers must submit detailed information via the State threat prevention information system (eta.gov.lv), including:

• Personal details and those of relatives (if applicable)
• Purpose of travel
• Travel itinerary and route
• Contact information

For drivers conducting transit only through Latvia, the requirement is limited to providing basic contact information.

Impact on transportation companies and drivers

• Driver eligibility: All non-exempt drivers must complete the form before entering Latvia.
• Potential for delays: Incomplete or incorrect forms may cause delays, additional inspections, or even blocked shipments at the border.
• Increased administrative burden: Transport companies and drivers need to ensure that all required information is collected and submitted at least 48 hours before arrival.
• Exceptions: Holders of Latvian visas or residence permits are exempt.
• No impact on ICS2: This new entry form is a separate requirement and does not affect the EU’s ICS2 system, which focuses on cargo security and customs data.

Recommendations for the Transport and Logistics Sector:

• Ensure all drivers and personnel from affected countries are fully informed and submit their entry forms on time.
• Prepare for potential delays due to form verification at border crossings and random checks within Latvia.
• Coordinate internally to manage the increased administrative workload related to compliance.
• Monitor the launch and functionality of the eta.gov.lv portal for timely submission.

Although the regulation primarily targets passenger movement, transport companies should be aware that failure to comply could indirectly affect freight operations due to delays or inspections at the border.

For the latest updates and official guidance, companies are advised to regularly consult Latvian government sources and maintain communication with border authorities.