Latvia Visa Requirements: Documents, Fees and Eligibility

Latvia Visa Requirements: Documents, Fees and Eligibility in 2026

Applying for a visa to Latvia requires careful preparation and a clear understanding of the documents, fees, and eligibility criteria. As a Schengen Area member since 2004, Latvia follows the common EU visa policy, which means the requirements are standardized but with some Latvia-specific procedures that applicants must follow.

This guide breaks down every requirement you need to meet for a successful Latvia visa application.

Who Is Eligible for a Latvia Visa?

Eligibility depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit:

• EU/EEA/Swiss nationals — No visa needed; enter with a valid ID card or passport
• Visa-exempt nationals (US, Canada, UK, Australia, Japan, Brazil, etc.) — Visa-free entry for up to 90 days; ETIAS required from late 2026
• Visa-required nationals — Must apply for a Schengen visa before traveling to Latvia

Latvia processes visa applications through its embassies, consulates, and the external service provider VFS Global, which operates visa application centers in countries worldwide.

Types of Latvia Visas

Latvia offers several visa categories depending on your travel purpose and duration:

Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C)

• Tourism, business, family visits, medical treatment, or transit
• Valid for up to 90 days within any 180-day period
• Single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry options
• Fee: €80 for adults, €40 for children aged 6-12, free for children under 6

National Long-Stay Visa (Type D)

• Employment, study, family reunification, or long-term stays exceeding 90 days
• Requires a specific purpose documented with supporting evidence
• Fee: €90
• Processing time: 15-45 calendar days

Airport Transit Visa (Type A)

• For citizens of specific countries transiting through Schengen airports
• Does not permit entry into the Schengen area
• Fee: €80

Required Documents for a Latvia Schengen Visa

Every applicant must submit the following core documents:

1. Valid Passport

• Issued within the last 10 years
• Validity of at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen area
• At least two blank pages for visa stamps

2. Completed Application Form

• Filled out online through VFS Global or the OCMA e-service portal
• Printed and signed by the applicant
• Must be completed in English or Latvian

3. Passport Photographs

• Two recent color photographs
• Size: 35mm x 45mm
• White background, taken within the last 6 months
• Face must be clearly visible, no glasses or head coverings (except for religious reasons)

4. Travel Medical Insurance

• Minimum coverage of €30,000
• Valid across all 27 Schengen member states
• Must cover medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation
• Valid for the entire duration of the trip plus a buffer period

5. Proof of Accommodation

• Hotel reservation or booking confirmation
• Invitation letter from a host in Latvia (if staying with friends or family)
• Rental agreement for longer stays

6. Flight Itinerary

• Round-trip reservation showing entry and exit dates
• Does not need to be a purchased ticket; a confirmed booking is acceptable

7. Proof of Financial Means

• Bank statements from the last 3 months
• Minimum balance varies, but applicants should demonstrate approximately €50-70 per day of their planned stay
• Employment letter or proof of income
• Sponsor letter if someone else is funding the trip

8. Cover Letter

• Explaining the purpose of your visit
• Detailing your itinerary and planned activities
• Stating your intent to return to your home country

Additional Documents by Visa Purpose

For Business Visas

• Invitation letter from a Latvian company
• Business registration documents
• Schedule of meetings and business contacts

For Work Visas

• Employment contract or job offer from a Latvian employer
• OCMA-approved sponsorship or invitation request
• Proof of qualifications (diplomas, certificates)

For Student Visas

• Enrollment letter from an accredited Latvian educational institution
• Proof of tuition payment or scholarship
• Academic transcripts

For Family Reunion Visas

• Proof of family relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate)
• Residence permit of the family member in Latvia
• Accommodation proof from the host

For Minors

• Certified parental or guardian authorization
• Birth certificate
• Copies of parents’ passports

Latvia Visa Fees

Fees are non-refundable even if the visa is denied. Some categories of applicants may be exempt from fees, including diplomatic passport holders, researchers, and representatives of non-profit organizations under 25 years old.

Latvia Visa Processing Times

• Standard processing: 15 calendar days from the date of application
• Extended processing: Up to 45 calendar days if additional documentation or verification is needed
• Residence permits: Approximately 30 calendar days (standard) or 10 working days (expedited)

Factors that can delay processing include incomplete applications, high application volumes during peak travel seasons, and the need for additional security checks.

Where to Apply for a Latvia Visa

Applications are submitted through:

1. VFS Global — The official external service provider for Latvian visa applications in most countries. Visit visa.vfsglobal.com to find your nearest center
2. Latvian embassies and consulates — For countries without VFS Global centers
3. OCMA e-service portal — For initiating applications online at pmlp.gov.lv

You must apply at the embassy or visa center responsible for your country of residence. If Latvia does not have a diplomatic mission in your country, you may apply through another Schengen state that represents Latvia.

Tips for Meeting Latvia Visa Requirements

1. Start early — Apply 2-3 months before your travel date to allow time for processing
2. Double-check documents — Ensure all documents are current, properly translated, and notarized if required
3. Maintain consistent bank balances — Avoid large unexplained deposits before applying
4. Get proper travel insurance — Verify it meets the €30,000 minimum and covers all Schengen states
5. Provide a clear itinerary — Vague travel plans raise red flags with visa officers
6. Show ties to your home country — Employment letters, property ownership, and family connections demonstrate intent to return

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Meeting Latvia visa requirements comes down to thorough preparation, complete documentation, and applying through the correct channels. Whether you need a short-stay Schengen visa for tourism or a long-stay visa for work and study, following the guidelines in this guide will help ensure a smooth application process. Remember to apply through official channels like VFS Global and allow adequate time for processing.