Official Import Rules
Latvia follows EU pet regulations. From EU countries: EU Pet Passport with ISO microchip and current rabies vaccination.
From listed third countries: health certificate, microchip, and rabies vaccination. From non-listed third countries: FAVN titer test with 3-month wait.
Entry through Riga (RIX) airport. PVD (Food and Veterinary Service) oversees border inspections.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)
Rabies vaccination (21-day wait)
EU Pet Passport or third-country veterinary certificate
Tapeworm treatment NOT required for cats
Enter via any point of entry
Preparation Checklist
4 weeks before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None for EU/listed countries
City & Housing Tips
Riga is the main destination with good vet care and a growing expat community. Affordable living costs make Latvia attractive for remote workers. Most apartments in Riga allow cats.
Vets & Common Parasites
Good veterinary care in Riga at affordable prices. Several modern clinics with English-speaking staff. Emergency vet services available 24/7 in Riga. Outside the capital, vet availability is more limited.
Find Vets in LatviaExit Rules — Leaving Latvia
EU Pet Passport for EU travel. Health certificate from an Official Veterinarian for non-EU destinations. PVD endorses export documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Riga has a relaxed attitude toward cats, affordable vet care, and many pet-friendly apartments. The Old Town has a famous cat sculpture — the Cat House.
Yes, one of the more affordable EU countries. Vet care, rent, and daily costs are significantly lower than Western Europe.
Cold — temperatures can drop to -20°C in January/February. Most cat owners keep cats indoors during the coldest months.
Community Tips
Start the paperwork at least 4–6 months before your travel date. Airline pet policies change frequently — always confirm directly with your carrier close to departure.
Have you moved to Latvia with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.
CatAbroad Editorial
Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.