In a significant policy shift affecting diplomatic relations, Latvia has officially suspended visa-free travel for holders of Georgian diplomatic and service passports, as part of a partial withdrawal from a bilateral agreement between the two nations. This move places Latvia alongside several other Schengen Area countries tightening regulations for Georgian government officials.

Latvia Confirms Policy Change – Ordinary Citizens Unaffected

According to an official press release from the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the decision was made by the country’s Cabinet of Ministers, who approved the partial suspension of the bilateral visa waiver agreement with Georgia.

Crucially, this change does not affect Georgian citizens traveling with ordinary (non-diplomatic) passports, who may continue to enjoy visa-free entry into the Schengen zone for short stays under existing EU travel rules.

"This suspension applies strictly to diplomatic and service passport holders. Georgian citizens with regular passports are still eligible for visa-free travel," the ministry clarified.

Growing Trend Across the Schengen Zone

Latvia’s move mirrors similar decisions by other EU and Schengen states. The following countries have already suspended or are planning to suspend visa-free access for Georgian diplomatic passport holders:

• Belgium

• Bulgaria

• Estonia

• Lithuania

• Luxembourg

• The Netherlands

• Romania

• Spain

• Slovakia

• Sweden

This coordinated shift reflects broader concerns about abuse of diplomatic privileges and alignment with EU foreign policy objectives.

EU Ambassador: No Threat to Visa-Free Travel for Ordinary Georgians

Despite these changes, EU Ambassador to Georgia, Pawel Herczynski, reassured citizens that visa-free travel rights for Georgian ordinary passport holders remain secure.

“Most EU member states have no intention of restricting movement for Georgian citizens. These changes strictly target official government travel,” Ambassador Herczynski told the press.

However, Herczynski also expressed concern over Georgia’s EU accession prospects, noting that while Ukraine and Moldova continue to progress toward EU integration, Georgia risks stagnation due to domestic political issues and international alignment concerns.

Poland Calls for Broader Visa Policy Review

Adding to the pressure, Poland has proposed a complete end to visa-free travel for Georgian citizens, citing security concerns. The Polish Prime Minister recently stated that countries posing a potential threat to European or national security should face stricter border controls.

“Georgia is not the only country under review. We must protect European values and ensure border integrity,” the Prime Minister emphasized.

This proposal is part of a broader EU discussion on visa liberalization reform and Schengen zone security.

How EU Prime Serwis Can Help

At EU Prime Serwis, we closely monitor all changes in EU visa policies, Schengen regulations, and diplomatic travel rules. If you are a Georgian national or organization seeking clarity on these recent developments, our team of experts is here to assist.

Click here to contact us for personalized assistance with visa applications, travel compliance, and documentation support.