Understanding the cost of a Latvia visa is essential for planning your trip. Fees vary depending on visa type, processing speed, and your nationality. Below is a detailed breakdown of all charges you may encounter.
Schengen Visa Fee for Latvia
Latvia is a Schengen Area member. Standard short-stay Schengen visa fees (Category C) apply:
| Category | Fee (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Adults | €80 |
| Children (6-12 years) | €40 |
| Children (under 6 years) | Free |
| Nationals of certain countries with facilitation agreements | €35 |
The €80 fee is set by EU Regulation and is the same across all Schengen states. You pay this amount regardless of whether you are applying for a single-entry or multiple-entry visa.
National Visa Fee (Category D)
For stays longer than 90 days, such as for work, study, or family reunification, you need a national long-stay visa:
| Category | Fee (EUR) |
|---|---|
| National Visa (Type D) | €60-100 |
The exact fee depends on the purpose of your stay. Work permits and student visas may carry different administrative charges on top of the base visa fee.
Service Fees and Additional Costs
When applying through an external service provider like VFS Global or TLScontact, expect extra charges:
| Service | Fee (EUR) |
|---|---|
| VFS/TLS service fee | €20-40 |
| SMS notification | €2-5 |
| Courier return delivery | €10-20 |
| Passport photos | €5-10 |
| Travel insurance (required) | €15-50 |
Biometric Data Fee
If you need to provide biometric data (fingerprints) and apply through a third-party service provider, this is usually included in the service fee. First-time applicants must visit the application centre in person.
Fee Exemptions
Certain categories of applicants are exempt from the Schengen visa fee:
- Children under 6 years old
- Pupils, students, postgraduate students, and accompanying teachers travelling for study or educational training
- Researchers travelling for scientific research
- Representatives of non-profit organisations aged 25 or under attending seminars, conferences, or sports events
- Holders of diplomatic and service passports
How to Pay
Payment methods depend on the application centre:
- Embassy/Consulate: Cash or bank transfer, usually in local currency
- VFS Global/TLScontact: Online payment, credit/debit card, or cash at the centre
- Some centres accept only specific payment methods, so check before your appointment
When to Pay
The visa fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. You pay at the time of submitting your application. No refund is possible after the fee has been collected.
Latvia e-Visa Fee
If Latvia offers an electronic visa option for your nationality, the fee is typically the same as the standard Schengen visa fee (€80 for adults). Additional service charges may apply for online processing.
Tips to Avoid Extra Costs
- Apply early to avoid rush/expedited processing surcharges
- Prepare documents correctly to prevent re-application fees
- Use free photo services at the application centre when available
- Compare insurance options online before purchasing at the centre
- Check fee waivers if you belong to an exempt category
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Latvia visa fee refundable if my application is rejected?
No. The visa fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome of your application.
Do I need to pay extra for a multiple-entry visa?
No. The Schengen visa fee is the same for single-entry and multiple-entry visas. The decision on entry type is made by the consular officer.
Can I pay the visa fee in my local currency?
When applying at an embassy or consulate abroad, you typically pay in the local currency at the current exchange rate. When applying through VFS or TLS, payment options vary by location.
Are there reduced fees for certain nationalities?
Yes. Citizens of countries that have visa facilitation agreements with the EU (such as Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Moldova, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Ukraine) pay a reduced fee of €35.
How much does the entire Latvia visa process cost?
Budget approximately €100-170 in total, covering the visa fee (€80), service provider charges (€20-40), and travel insurance (€15-50). Additional costs may include document translation and notarization.
