Visa to Latvia

Latvia is a small country on the Baltic coast, known for its rich history, beautiful nature and unique culture. It is a member of the European Union and part of the European Economic Area, which makes it attractive for tourists and businessmen.

Latvia's visa policy is based on the rules established for members of the entire European Union. To visit the country, citizens of most countries require a Schengen visa, among other things, allowing them to move freely around Europe without the need for additional permits.

In 2024 and subsequent years, the process of obtaining a visa to Latvia may change depending on the current citizenship and personal circumstances of the applicant. It is worth noting that some programs for citizens of certain countries may be temporarily suspended or changed. To obtain a visa to Latvia, you must contact the consulate or embassy of the country no later than six months before the trip, and electronic registration is required.

Applications are considered within 15 days, but in some situations this period may be extended to 45 days.

Additional features

You can get up-to-date information about the deadlines and requirements for the applicant on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia.  

Freelancer Visa

The digital Nomad visa in Latvia was officially introduced in early 2020 as part of a program aimed at attracting independent workers, remote qualified specialists and supporting economic development.

In 2023, more than 2,000 freelancers expressed a desire to obtain a visa of this type. This confirms the growing interest in Latvia as a country where you can work remotely.

In the first year after the launch of the program, there was a noticeable increase in the number of registrations. Ukraine, Russia, the United States and the European Union have become the main countries from which applications are received.

When applying for a freelancer visa, the following important points must be taken into account:

• The type of visa. Latvia offers a visa for the self-employed (freelancers), which allows you to work independently, without the need for employment in a company. Such a visa is issued for a period of up to 1 year with the possibility of extension.
• Requirements for applicants. To apply for a freelancer visa, you need to meet the basic requirements: have a valid passport, the applicant must be over 18 years old. Among other things, it is necessary to provide proof that there is a permanent income from remote activities – income of at least 3,433 euros per month for the last six months.
• Availability of housing. Proof of permanent residence in Latvia (rented housing or property) is required.
• Insurance. A completed medical policy covering expenses in the amount of 42,600€.

The application procedure is as follows:

• Electronic registration. Make an appointment at the Latvian representative office at the place of residence.
• Payment of the visa fee, the amount of which is determined depending on the type of visa requested and the age of the applicant.
• Submission of documentation within the prescribed period.
• Consideration of the application. The appeal is considered, as a rule, 15 working days, in some cases this period can be extended to 45 days.

How much does a visa cost?

The cost depends on several factors, but primarily on the type of visa. The main costs include:

State duty and consular fee. The state fee is about 100€ for short-term visas and can reach 200€ for long-term ones. The amount of the consular fee is 110€.

Additional expenses. They include the costs of preparing documentation, translations issued by a notary, and other related services. In total, they can range from 50 to 200€.

Important

If the period of stay in Latvia is more than 90 days, then it is necessary to apply for a long-term visa. The requirements of the visa policy, including prices, may change, so it is necessary to check the current data on official government sources.

Payment for the visa is made at the visa application center at the rate determined by the Latvian Consulate. In the office, payment is possible only by bank transfer. The payment is made taking into account the commission and the transfer to the national currency. VISA, VISA Electron, VPAY, as well as MasterCard and Maestro cards are accepted. You can pay only through the terminal, you can not use phones, bracelets and other devices for contactless payment.

Before submitting an application, it is worth carefully examining all the conditions and related expenses in order to avoid unexpected expenses and delays.

Types of visas (types of visas)

Latvia offers different types of visas depending on the purpose of the trip and the duration of the visit. Here are the main types of Latvian entry permits:

• Short-term visas (Type C). A tourist visa is for people planning short trips. A business visa is required for business trips, participation in conferences or business meetings. A visa for visiting relatives is issued to those who intend to visit Latvia and pay a visit to relatives, friends, citizens or residents of the country.
• Long-term (type D). A work visa is necessary for those who intend to find a job in Latvia, and requires the provision of an employment contract. The student program is for those who come to Latvia for the purpose of studying. Entry permit for researchers – for scientists conducting research in Latvia. Entry permit for people working remotely.
• Transit (Type A). For persons passing through the territory of the country to another state. Visa permits issued on the territory of the country. 
• Electronic (e-Visa). The possibility of a simplified online registration process for travelers from individual countries.

Student's

In order to obtain the right to study at educational institutions in Latvia, a prospective student must obtain a student visa. It is previously required to determine the program of study (bachelor's degree, master's degree, etc.). In addition, it is necessary to fulfill a number of requirements:

• Admission to an accredited institution.
• Availability of funds for accommodation and education.
• An insurance policy.
• Certificate of no criminal record.
• Proficiency in the language of instruction (if necessary).

The list of documents that must be provided for registration:

• Completed application form.
• A foreign passport.
• An invitation letter from an educational institution.
• Proof of solvency.
• Medical insurance.
• The photo is in accordance with the rules.
• Confirmation of the availability of a place to stay (for example, a rental agreement).

A student visa is usually issued for a period of 1 year with the possibility of extension if the study continues.

Tourist

It is issued to citizens of non-EU countries and is intended for short-term stay. Latvia, as part of the Schengen area, provides an opportunity for visitors to travel not only within its territory, but also to other Schengen states with a single visa, which makes it an attractive destination for tourists. A tourist visa (Type C) allows you to stay in Latvia and other Schengen states for up to 90 days within six months.

Business visa (for business trips)

It belongs to type C (short-term), which allows you to temporarily stay in Latvia and other EU states. Grants the right to temporarily stay in the country in order to expand business ties, conduct business, participate in negotiations, conferences, seminars and other professional events. Entrepreneurs, investors, representatives of companies, specialists, experts can receive it.

Working (to work legally in the country)

Employment in Latvia on the basis of a signed employment contract is possible with the appropriate permit. The program is aimed at attracting qualified personnel to various sectors of the economy. Allows you to stay in Latvia for more than 90 days during a six-month period.

It is provided to qualified personnel with a higher education diploma or special skills required by local employers. In addition, builders, doctors, programmers and other representatives of sought-after professions can send a request.

Required documents

To obtain a visa of the selected type, you must collect and provide the following list of documents:

• Application. It is filled out and signed with your own hand. Samples of applications can be found on the official website of the consulate or at the visa application center.
• A foreign passport. It must be valid for at least 3 months after the expected expiration of the visa. The document should have several free pages for visas.
• Photo. Usually 1-2 photos of 3.5x4.5 cm are required.
• Justification of the visit to the country. Documentary confirmation of the purpose of the visit, for example, a letter from an employer, educational institution or travel agency.
• Proof of solvency. Bank statements, income certificates or other documents confirming financial viability at the time of stay in Latvia.
• A medical insurance policy with coverage of at least 30,000€, valid in Latvia and other EU countries.
• A certificate of non-conviction issued by the authorized authorities of the host country.
• Additional documents depending on the type of visa. If you plan to study, you will need documents confirming enrollment in an educational institution. If you have a job, you must provide an employment contract.
• Receipts for payment of visa fees and state duties.

Important

Before applying, all documents must be translated into English. The deadline for submitting a visa application should not exceed 3 months before arrival in Latvia.

Recent changes in the visa issue in Latvia

In recent years, the country's visa policy towards other states has undergone significant changes. This is due to the aggravation of the global political situation. The innovations included:

• Tightening of the visa policy. The Latvian government has imposed restrictions on the issuance of visas to citizens of the Russian Federation since September 19, 2022. This is due to the desire to reduce the number of visits from Russia and limit the opportunities for Russians to freely move around the countries of the European Union.
• Changes for third-country nationals. New initiatives have emerged to simplify visa regimes for citizens of Ukraine and Moldova, reflecting support for the integration of these countries into European structures.
• Working with refugees. In the context of the increasing flow of refugees, Latvia has taken a number of measures to simplify the procedure for obtaining a residence permit for people seeking asylum, especially from countries with active military conflicts. 
• Crowdfunding and sustainability programs. Latvia has launched programs to support investments and businesses. Legislative initiatives are aimed at facilitating the process of obtaining visas and work permits for entrepreneurs and specialists from third countries.

Latvia actively participates in the development and discussion of the common visa policy of the European Union, which influences national decisions. In this context, it is important to keep in mind the harmonization of visa regimes throughout the European Union. Those wishing to travel or otherwise interact with Latvia should keep an eye on visa updates, as they may change depending on the political situation and internal government decisions.