Latvia Strengthens Border Controls Amid Security Concerns
Latvia has once again tightened border controls with Russia and Belarus, citing security concerns related to a potential influx of migrants. The measures, announced on Tuesday, March 23, 2026, restrict entry at key checkpoints to motor vehicles only.
Recent Border Control Measures
As of March 19, 2025, entry at the Paternieki (Belarus border crossing), Terehova and Grebneva (Russia border crossings) checkpoints is limited to motor vehicles. Pedestrians and cyclists are currently prohibited from crossing at these locations until further notice.
Electronic Queue Reservation System
Since October 15, 2025, all motor vehicles crossing the Latvia-Russia and Latvia-Belarus borders at Grebņeva, Terehova, and Pāternieki are required to register in advance through the Electronic Queue Reservation System (ERRS) and www.lvrobeza.lv. This system, similar to those already in place in Estonia and Lithuania, aims to improve border-crossing security and reduce congestion. More than 3,450 reservations have been made to date, with Terehova accounting for 1,500, Grebņeva for over 1,000, and Pāternieki for slightly over 900.
Increased Enforcement and Violations
On Monday, March 23, 2026, Latvian State Border Guard officials prevented illegal border crossings, bringing the total number of prevented crossings to 141 this year. The Latvian government attributes these attempts to orchestrations by Russia to destabilize the region.
In total, 39 offenders were identified on the external borders and within the country. Nine foreigners were denied entry, including one citizen of Uzbekistan due to insufficient documentation and seven citizens of Belarus and one citizen of Uzbekistan due to security concerns. Two individuals, one Russian and one Uzbek, were found to have violated the terms of their stay due to lacking valid travel or residency documents. Seven individuals – two Lithuanians, one Russian, one Belarusian, one Afghan, one Somali, and one Ukrainian – were found to have violated entry or stay regulations within the country.
Vehicle and Vessel Violations
Officials have also taken administrative action against 18 individuals for violations related to vehicle and vessel operation, including ten Belarusian citizens, two Lithuanians, two Romanians, and one each from Latvia, Moldova, Serbia, and Ukraine.
Looking Ahead
Latvia continues to monitor the situation closely and adjust border control measures as needed to ensure national security and manage potential migration crises. The Electronic Queue Reservation System is expected to streamline border crossings for legitimate travelers while deterring illegal activity.
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