CUSTOMS CLEARANCE
Customs specialists with almost 30 years of experience will provide a full range of customs clearance services in Riga, Latvia. We carry out cargo import, export, transit and TIR formalities. Certificates of origin, EUR1, ATR. Check the requirements and tax rates, import duties. Customs consulting.
EXPORT CUSTOMS FORMALITIES
When selling goods to foreign countries, if the recipient is in the European Union, in some cases it is necessary to prepare T2L or T2LF declaration. If the recipient is outside of the European Union, it is necessary to form an export declaration. When exporting a product, it is necessary to make sure that the export of the given product is not subject to any restrictions or sanctions.
-
Clearing of T2L and T2LF
-
Clearing of export declarations
-
Arranging certificates of origin, EUR1, ATR and other certificates
-
Certificates of non-preferential origin.
IMPORT CUSTOMS FORMALITIES
Before purchasing of the product, we recommend that you check with us what the requirements are for customs clearance and what taxes you will have to pay when the product is cleared. In some cases, import duties or other taxes are applied when purchasing a product, which significantly affects the final cost of the product. By preparing all the necessary documentation in time, it is possible to avoid other additional costs. It is important, when ordering a product, to make sure that the specific product is not subject to any restrictions or sanctions.
-
Clearing of import customs formalities
-
Veterinary, sanitary and customs controls
-
Arranging of transit and TIR carnets
-
Consulting and other services.
Passenger Car Customs Clearance and Import into Latvia
Passenger car customs clearance in Latvia typically costs 150 EUR + VAT, provided that no additional inspections or expert evaluations are requested by customs. The process usually takes 1–2 days, but may take longer if a detailed inspection is initiated or additional documents are required.
When importing a vehicle from abroad, the following taxes apply:
-
10% import duty
-
21% VAT
Tax Exemptions for Vehicle Import
There are cases where individuals may be exempt from tax payments, for example, when relocating to permanent residence in Latvia. Such exemptions apply only if they are documented and compliant with customs regulations.
Declaring Vehicle Value
The declared vehicle value must reflect real market value and be supported by documentation. Customs authorities strictly verify accuracy, so payment confirmations and photos of the vehicle are recommended.
Required Documents for Vehicle Customs Clearance
To successfully complete customs formalities, the following documents are required:
-
Sales invoice
-
Bank payment confirmation (must match invoice amount)
-
Transport document (proof of vehicle entry into Latvia)
-
Foreign vehicle registration certificate
-
Power of attorney for customs procedures (template provided)
-
Vehicle photos (recommended for valuation)
-
Additional documents at customs request
Customs Clearance for Personal Belongings When Moving to Latvia
When relocating permanently to Latvia from a country outside the European Union, such as the United Kingdom, Norway or the United States, an import customs declaration is generally required for personal belongings and household goods.
Backloads assists with customs clearance of personal effects, preparation of the necessary documents and, if required, transportation of belongings to Latvia.
Can Personal Belongings Be Imported Without Customs Duty and VAT?
Yes. When relocating to Latvia, personal belongings and household goods may qualify for exemption from import customs duty and VAT, provided that certain conditions are met.
To qualify for the exemption, the following conditions generally apply:
-
The person must have maintained their normal place of residence outside the European Union for at least 12 months.
-
The imported belongings must have been owned and used by the person at their previous residence for at least 6 months before relocation.
-
The belongings must be intended for personal or household use, not commercial purposes.
-
The belongings must generally be imported within 12 months of establishing the person's normal residence in Latvia.
The exemption may apply to furniture, clothing, household appliances, personal items and other household goods. Under certain conditions, it may also apply to a privately owned vehicle.
The exemption does not apply to alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, commercial vehicles and most items intended for professional activities.
What Documents Are Required for Customs Clearance of Personal Belongings?
To prepare an import customs declaration and establish eligibility for tax exemption, the following documents may be required, depending on the circumstances:
-
Passport or ID card — proof of identity.
-
Packing List — description of the belongings, quantities, weight and approximate value.
-
Proof of previous residence — employment contract, rental agreement or other documents confirming residence outside the EU.
-
Proof of previous ownership and use — purchase documents or other suitable supporting evidence.
-
Proof of relocation to Latvia — registered residence, rental or property documents, or other relevant evidence.
-
Power of Attorney — if a customs broker submits the declaration on behalf of the person.
-
Additional documents — if requested by the customs authorities.
Purchase receipts for used personal belongings are often no longer available. In such cases, it may be possible to substantiate the value and previous use of the belongings with other documents or supporting information.
How Does Customs Clearance of Personal Belongings Work in Latvia?
When importing personal belongings from a country outside the European Union, an import customs declaration must be submitted. If the legal requirements are met and the necessary supporting documents are provided, exemption from customs duty and VAT may be requested.
It is important to note that belongings imported under this exemption generally cannot be sold, rented, pledged or transferred to another person within 12 months after their release for free circulation without complying with the applicable customs requirements.
Customs Clearance and Transportation of Personal Belongings with Backloads
Our customs brokers will help review the required documents, prepare the import customs declaration and assess eligibility for customs duty and VAT exemption.
Do you also need transportation of your personal belongings to Latvia? Backloads arranges international road, sea and air freight, as well as customs formalities, providing a coordinated solution for relocating your household goods.
Contact us for a quotation for customs clearance and transportation of personal belongings to Latvia.