Since 19 September, when Latvian government’s decision regarding restrictions for non-essential travel came to force, the influx of Russian citizens has declined by 22%, as reported by the State Border Guard.
A total of 258 Russian citizens crossed the external border in the past 24 hours. This is five times less when compared to neighbouring countries: Estonia reports 1 245 Russian citizens crossing their border, and Lithuania reports 1 336.
In total, 4 230 Russian citizens have crossed the Russian-Latvian and Belarusian-Latvian border since 19 September.
According to the State Border Guard, only the people who fit specific conditions for exceptions are allowed to cross the border.
Only 15% of the 4 230 Russian citizens allowed the cross the border did so based on C or D category visas. Another 40% are holders of Latvian residence permits. Among them are also family members of Latvian citizens, students, workers and people whose travel is required by work or humanitarian considerations.
Nearly half of Russian citizens who have crossed the border into Latvia used visas or residence permits issued by other countries. This means Latvia is not their destination, rather it is used for transit in order to travel to other EU member states.
According to the State Border Guard, immigration control is the focus right now, and it is performed for all foreigners staying in the Republic of Latvia. Monitoring ensures that all foreigners staying in Latvia follow all conditions for the duration of their stay.
149 Russian citizens were denied entry to Latvia since 19 September.
Foreigners can be denied entry to Latvia based on requirements of the Cabinet of Ministers and other conditions.
No attempts to cross the Latvian-Russian border illegally in the ‘green area’ have been uncovered so far.