Latvia is expected to introduce stricter entry requirements for third-country nationals who do not hold a visa or residence permit issued by the Latvian authorities in September of this year.
In an attempt to strengthen national security and improve border protection, travellers who do not possess these specific documents will be required to undergo screening, during which they will have to provide detailed information about themselves and their relatives before entering Latvia, Schengen.News reports.
Supporting the move during its final reading, the Latvian parliament said that tightened measures are necessary, especially when it comes to citizens of Russia and Belarus.
As the Latvian authorities suggested, there are some member states that do not apply security checks to these two nationalities upon their arrival. For this reason, they stressed that the country should do its part before permitting entry into the country for this group of travellers.
Once the new rules become effective, Aprinkis explains that third-country nationals who do not hold a visa or residence permit granted by Latvia will be obliged to provide the purpose of their trip, the duration of their stay, their destination, their route, and contact details 48 hours before entering the territory of Latvia.
In addition, those affected by this measure will also need to disclose if their relatives have held elected positions, served as current or former state or municipal officials, or worked in the armed forces, special services, border guard, customs, or the interior, justice, or foreign services.
Individuals With Diplomatic Immunity Will Not Be Affected
The amendments, as Aprinkis notes, specify that third-country nationals with diplomatic immunity or those who are travelling to Latvia for short-term official functions will not be affected by the new rules once they enter into force.
Moreover, it has been explained that the effectiveness and impact of such a measure will be evaluated once a year.
In addition to wanting to introduce stricter entry rules, the Latvian authorities also want to limit the validity of temporary permits.
As explained by the same source, the amendments state that in line with the new rules, temporary permits will remain valid for no longer than two months.
Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which Belarus also supports, Latvia has significantly strengthened its checks.
The country has also called on the Schengen member states to stop visa issuance for Russians and has tightened border controls with both Russia and Belarus.