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Latvia introduces paid booking for entry from Russia and Belarus

15 October 2025 12:05 (UTC +04:00)

Starting October 15, 2025, Latvia has changed the rules for border crossings from Russia and Belarus: the live queue system has been replaced by mandatory booking of an entry time slot, costing €9.3 per vehicle, APA reports, citing Latvian media.

Booking must be done online in advance, as payment cannot be processed at the border.

Formally, the rule applies to all passport holders, but it primarily affects motorists from Russia and Belarus. Slots for future dates must be reserved online in advance.

Previously, Latvia’s Minister of Transport, Atis Švinka, suggested discussing the possibility of discontinuing regular bus services with Russia and Belarus. Latvian authorities have also approved a ban on irregular passenger flights and tightened border controls. Russians, Belarusians, and Ukrainians entering the country, even through internal EU borders, must complete an online questionnaire about the purpose of their visit at least 48 hours before crossing.

A similar electronic queue system is already in place in Belarus. Drivers register online, receive an electronic ticket specifying the arrival time, and if late or without a reservation, must wait in the general queue. This system operates at crossings with Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland.