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The passport of the Republic of Latvia is an official document certifying identity and belonging to the country on and outside its territory. It looks like a standard national identity card, made in a burgundy color scheme with a coat of arms on the cover. The first page shows the owner's details, including a photo and personal information, as well as a biometric chip containing additional data.
The passport is issued for 10 years – for adults, 5 years – for persons from 5 to 20 years old, 2 years – for children under 5 years old. The privileges granted to the holder include the right to visa-free entry to 174 countries, including the states of the European Union, and the opportunity to freely move, work and reside in any EU state.
How do I get a Latvian passport?
One of the ways to issue a document is by origin. Children whose parents (one or both) are Latvians automatically receive a passport, regardless of the place of birth.
Naturalization requires residence in the country for 5 years with a residence permit and the same amount with permanent residence. In addition, there are requirements for compliance with a number of criteria: knowledge of the state language, legal income, as well as passing exams on knowledge of Latvian history, basic laws.
Repatriation is intended for persons with Latvian roots. Children and grandchildren of Latvians or Livs, whose ancestors lived in Latvia before 1940, can apply without having to fulfill the conditions of naturalization.
How to get a foreigner?
The process involves several stages, starting with obtaining a visa and ending with obtaining a certificate.
To obtain a document, it is necessary to comply with conditions such as legal residence for a specified period, knowledge of the Latvian language and compliance with other requirements. Understanding the procedure will help you plan the steps towards integration into Latvian society. The standard order is as follows:
The permit gives the right to stay in the Latvian territory for up to 90 days. It is provided for a period of up to 1 year with the possibility of departure. When the purpose of the visit is to obtain a residence permit, a single –entry visa is issued for 30 days. The cost is 120€.
If a foreigner plans to stay in Latvia for more than 90 days, an application for a temporary residence permit is submitted. Reasons for obtaining: family reunification, work, investing in real estate, studying and others. Documentary proof of the reason for the stay is required. It is also necessary to have means for self-sufficiency and a place to live. A residence permit is issued for 1 year with the possibility of extension, and the longest period for employment is 5 years. Payment is 110€.
After 5 years of residence with a temporary residence permit, the candidate submits an application for permanent residence. It is necessary to prove the fact of residence in the country, sufficient capital and knowledge of the Latvian language. The permit is issued for 5 years. The price is 100€.
After 10 years of legal residence, you can apply (on the website of the territorial department of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship), take exams on language, history, laws and swear allegiance to the Republic. Upon successful completion of all stages, a letter of full membership is provided, on the basis of which a passport is issued.
The Law on Citizenship of Latvia
The permanent Regulation has been in force since 1995, being a key document regulating issues related to obtaining a passport. The Law «On Citizenship» defines the conditions and procedures under which persons can obtain the status of a citizen, as well as the rights and obligations associated with it.
In 2013, the law was updated with amendments. The changes affected the participants of the repatriation by the possibility of retaining previous passports, simplifying the process for persons returning to Latvia. The amendments also improved the legal status of non-resident children by ensuring that they are recognized as legally connected to the State.
Passport documents
To obtain a certificate, it is necessary to prepare a package of papers. The standard list includes the following documents:
- Completed application;
- Valid ID card;
- Two fresh photos on a light background;
- Confirmation of legal grounds (if it is a question of repatriation or restoration);
- A certificate of no criminal record issued at least 6 months before submitting the application;
- Receipt of payment of the state fee.
How much does a Latvian passport cost?
The price of the document varies depending on the age of the applicant and the chosen method of registration. The current state duties were introduced in February 2024, and their cost has doubled. The main government fees for the production of passports and deadlines:
- For adults. Regular (up to 10 working days) – 60€, urgent (within 2 working days) – 110€;
- For children and young people under 20 years of age. Regular – 30€, urgent – 55€.
Latvia offers a residency program by investing, allowing foreigners to obtain a residence permit and, subsequently, a passport. The minimum investment for the purchase of real estate is 250,000 euros (plus 5% of the state fee on the value of the property), as well as additional costs for registration and maintenance of resident status. Sometimes it is necessary to demonstrate the availability of a certain level of capital to live in the country.
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