Key Points
- Latvia reinstated the Schengen visa requirement for Georgian diplomatic and service passport holders
- The decision took effect immediately on June 17, 2025
- Georgian citizens with standard passports remain eligible for visa-free travel to Latvia
Overview
On June 17, 2025, Latvia officially reinstated the Schengen visa requirement for holders of Georgian diplomatic and service passports, suspending its previous bilateral agreement with Georgia. This action follows Council Decision (EU) 2025/170, which partially suspended visa facilitation measures for Georgian officials in response to growing concerns over democratic governance in the country. The EU cited increasing restrictions on civil society organizations and political opposition as justification for the rollback.
The reinstated requirement means that Georgian government officials traveling to Latvia for diplomatic or official purposes must now obtain a Schengen visa before entry. This change aligns Latvia’s national visa policies with broader EU efforts to hold partner countries accountable for commitments to democratic principles.
Notably, this policy shift does not impact Georgian nationals traveling on standard biometric passports, who continue to enjoy visa-free access to Latvia and other Schengen Area countries under the 2017 EU-Georgia visa liberalization agreement.
Latvian authorities emphasized that this is a targeted policy adjustment affecting only government officials. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that existing visa facilitation frameworks may be revisited should Georgia demonstrate substantial progress in reinforcing democratic norms.
Looking Ahead
Georgian officials planning official travel to Latvia should now account for visa processing timelines and prepare documentation by Schengen requirements. Diplomatic missions and international organizations working with Georgian representatives should also update their mobility protocols. As the EU continues monitoring Georgia’s internal developments, additional visa policy adjustments may follow. Travelers and employers are advised to stay informed about the evolving Schengen regulations, which are tied to changing political conditions.
