Latvia, as an EU member, applies standard EU duty-free allowances for non-resident adult travellers arriving from outside the EU. In 2026, key limits are 1 litre of spirits (or 2 litres of wine/beer), 200 cigarettes (or 100 cigarillos, or 50 cigars, or 250g tobacco), and personal goods up to EUR 430 (approx. USD 470). Cash of EUR 10,000 or more (about USD 10,900) must be declared. Note: Latvia does not impose additional national restrictions beyond EU rules.
Duty-free allowances
Alcohol
1.0 L
1 litre of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 litres of wine/beer (under 22% ABV). Traveller must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,900
Cash (including banknotes, coins, cheques, money orders, and bearer shares) of EUR 10,000 or more (approx. USD 10,900) must be declared in writing to the customs authority upon arrival.
Goods duty-free
$470
Personal goods (gifts, souvenirs, new items) up to EUR 430 (approx. USD 470) are duty-free for non-resident travellers arriving from outside the EU. Above that, duty and VAT (21%) apply on the excess amount.
Prohibited — banned from import
Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (except for medical use with a permit)
Weapons, ammunition, and explosives (including pepper spray and stun guns) without a permit
Endangered species (CITES-listed animals, plants, and their products, e.g., ivory, caviar without a certificate)
Counterfeit goods and pirated items
Pornographic material (including child pornography)
Certain agricultural products (e.g., meat and dairy from non-EU countries without proper veterinary checks)
Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration
Medicines containing controlled substances (e.g., codeine, diazepam) – require a prescription or medical certificate
Plants, seeds, and soil – require a phytosanitary certificate
Pets (dogs, cats, ferrets) – must have a microchip, rabies vaccination, and EU pet passport
Cultural heritage items (e.g., antiques, artworks) – may require an export permit from the country of origin
Drones (unmanned aircraft) – must comply with EU drone regulations (registration, insurance, and remote ID)
Rules worth knowing
EU Duty-Free Limits Apply for Non-EU Arrivals
When arriving from outside the EU, the standard EU allowances apply: EUR 430 for personal goods, 1L spirits, 200 cigarettes, etc. If arriving from another EU country, the limits are much higher (e.g., 800 cigarettes, 90L wine) for personal use.
Cash Declaration Threshold
Any traveller carrying EUR 10,000 or more (or equivalent in other currencies) must complete a written declaration (form available at customs). Failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.
Tobacco and Alcohol Age Limit
You must be at least 18 years old to import tobacco and alcohol duty-free. Customs may ask for ID.
Frequently asked questions
No, personal imports of meat, dairy, and other animal products from non-EU countries are generally banned due to EU biosecurity rules. Exceptions exist for baby food and special medical diets in limited quantities (up to 2kg total).
You must declare the total value of goods. Duty and VAT (21% standard rate) are charged on the amount exceeding EUR 430. For example, if you bring goods worth EUR 600, duty is calculated on EUR 170.
Yes, if you are entering Latvia (even in transit) and carrying EUR 10,000 or more, you must declare it. If you stay airside and do not pass through customs, the rule may not apply, but it's safest to declare if in doubt.
Yes, for personal use. Carry a doctor's prescription or medical certificate (in English or Latvian) for any controlled substances. For a 30-day supply or less, no special permit is needed. Larger quantities may require prior approval from Latvia's State Agency of Medicines.
For personal use, there is no fixed limit, but customs may question amounts over 10L of spirits, 20L of fortified wine, 90L of wine, or 110L of beer. You must be 18+ and able to prove it's for personal consumption.
Common seizures include undeclared cash over EUR 10,000, counterfeit brand goods (e.g., fake handbags, watches), and prohibited animal products (e.g., meat from Belarus or Russia). Also, drones without proper registration are frequently stopped.
For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with State Revenue Service of Latvia (Valsts ieņēmumu dienests) before travelling.