Georgian Diplomats No Longer Eligible for Visa-Free Entry to Latvia
Latvia Reinstates Visa Requirement for Georgian Diplomats Amid Rising EU Concerns
On June 17, 2025, the Latvian Cabinet of Ministers officially suspended the bilateral agreement with Georgia that had previously allowed visa-free travel for holders of diplomatic and service passports. As a result, Georgian officials carrying these passport types will now need a visa to enter Latvia, marking a significant shift in bilateral travel arrangements.
According to the Latvian Foreign Ministry, this move aligns Latvia with several other Schengen member states — including Belgium, Bulgaria, Estonia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Romania, Spain, Slovakia, and Sweden — which have already taken or are considering similar actions in response to growing concerns over Georgia’s political trajectory.
EU Maintains Visa-Free Travel for Georgian Citizens
Despite these diplomatic restrictions, ordinary Georgian citizens are not affected, and visa-free travel to the Schengen Area remains intact.
The EU Ambassador to Georgia, Pawel Herczynski, emphasized that the European Union does not intend to penalize Georgian citizens for the actions of their government. Speaking to local media, he reiterated that most EU countries oppose broader restrictions, stating:
“We don’t want to make ordinary people pay for the decisions, actions, and legislation enacted in Georgia by its authorities.”
Georgia’s EU Future in Question
Ambassador Herczynski also warned that Georgia risks losing its historic chance to join the European Union, citing a slowdown in its EU integration process. In contrast to Ukraine and Moldova, which have made tangible progress in aligning with EU standards, Georgia’s political backsliding has raised concerns among member states.
Poland Pushes for Broader Visa Restrictions
Meanwhile, Poland has adopted a firmer stance. Prime Minister Donald Tusk publicly called for ending visa-free travel for Georgian citizens altogether, arguing that Georgia’s political environment no longer aligns with European democratic values.
“This is not just about Georgia. I support restricting visa-free access from any country where authoritarian governance or migration trends pose a direct threat to public order in Europe,” said Prime Minister Tusk.
He further indicated that Georgia is not the only country under scrutiny, as discussions continue within the EU about recalibrating visa liberalization policies in response to security and governance concerns.
About AtoZ Serwis
AtoZ Serwis Plus, founded in 2009 and based in Poland, is a leading B2C and B2B immigration and recruitment agency. Operating across 5+ European countries, we offer expert services to individuals, employers, and recruitment partners worldwide.
For Employers
We help companies hire international talent from CIS, Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Register Here
For Job Seekers
Explore European job opportunities and apply through our Work Visa Services.
Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Become Our Partner
Join as a recruitment/immigration agency and get access to job markets and visa support.
Partner Registration
Important Notice
AtoZ Serwis Plus has over 14 years of experience helping job seekers and employers across Europe. While we assist with recruitment and immigration procedures, clients should always consult legal and tax advisors when necessary. AtoZ Serwis Plus does not provide legal or tax advice directly.
Disclaimer: AtoZSerwisPlus.com is a FREE visa database and marketplace for immigration experts. The content provided does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a professional before making decisions.
