Latvia

Singaporeans can visit Latvia for up to 90 days within 180 days from the date of initial entry within the Schengen region without a visa, provided no employment is pursued.

Latvia is part of the Schengen area. Entry into any of the 26 European countries in the Schengen area for short-term tourism, a business trip, or in transit to a non-Schengen destination, requires a minimum three months’ passport validity beyond the intended date of departure. Singaporeans should have their passports with them when crossing borders, even within the Schengen area.

As immigration requirements can change at short notice, travellers are advised to contact their travel agent or refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia website (www.mfa.gov.lv) for the latest information.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag-snatching and street theft, does occur, especially in Riga. Pickpocketing is prevalent at airports and train stations and near the main market area. Be aware of your surroundings and take care of your belongings.

Credit card fraud is common. Keep your credit card in sight when performing transactions. Check ATMs for card skimming devices. 

Drink spiking is common in bars and casinos. Do not leave your food and drinks unattended. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers or new acquaintances. 

It is illegal to consume alcohol in public. Offenders can be detained or fined.

Drivers may use their mobile phones while driving only if the phones are used with a hands-free device. Nonetheless, drivers are advised to pay full attention to their surroundings when driving. Headlights must be switched on at all times, even during the day. Vehicles must be fitted with winter tyres from December to March and must be outfitted with a first-aid kit and emergency travel equipment. If in doubt, seek the advice of your car rental company.

The export of certain religious materials and antiques is prohibited. Visitors should check with the local authorities for more information before any purchase.

Latvia can be extremely cold and can experience hazardous weather conditions during the winter months. Temperatures can drop to below -25 degrees Celsius. Monitor the temperature and weather forecasts regularly. Visitors visiting Latvia in winter should prepare and dress adequately for the cold. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departure.

Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 5 February 2024]

Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.

Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.

When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.

For those planning to travel, here are some tips:

Before travelling

• Familiarise yourself with our network of overseas missions.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.
• Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws and customs.
• eRegister with us on our website (www.mfa.gov.sg) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency.

While travelling

• Always take care of your personal safety, remain vigilant and monitor local weather news, advisories, and security developments.
• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.
• Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters, social unrest or terror attacks.
• Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details.
• In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

Advisory: Email Scams

There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.

MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously.  Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance.  If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request.  It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc.  Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails.  Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately.  Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.