Latvia Visa for Indian Citizens: Complete Guide for 2026
Indian citizens planning to visit Latvia must obtain a visa before travelling. As a member of the Schengen Area, Latvia follows the common European visa policy. Whether you are travelling for tourism, business, study, or work, understanding the visa requirements, application process, and fees is essential.
This guide covers everything Indian passport holders need to know about obtaining a Latvia visa – from the different visa types available to the step-by-step application process.
Types of Latvia Visas for Indian Citizens
Latvia offers several visa categories depending on the purpose and duration of your visit:
| Visa Type | Duration | Purpose | Entry Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schengen Short-Stay (Type C) | Up to 90 days | Tourism, business, family visit | Single / Multiple |
| Airport Transit (Type A) | 24-48 hours | Connecting flights through Latvia | Transit only |
| National Long-Stay (Type D) | 90+ days | Work, study, family reunion, residence | Single / Multiple |
Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)
The most common visa for Indian travellers. It allows you to stay in Latvia and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Ideal for tourism, short business trips, attending conferences, or visiting family and friends.
Airport Transit Visa (Type A)
Required if you have a connecting flight through a Latvian airport (e.g., Riga International Airport) and need to pass through the international transit zone. Indian citizens typically need this visa unless they hold a valid Schengen visa or residence permit from an EU country.
National Long-Stay Visa (Type D)
For stays exceeding 90 days. This visa is necessary for Indian citizens who plan to work, study, join family members, or establish residence in Latvia. The application process is more extensive and requires additional documentation.
Latvia Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens
Indian passport holders must prepare the following documents when applying for a Latvia visa:
Essential Documents
- Valid passport – must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from Latvia, with at least 2 blank pages
- Completed visa application form – filled out online at the VFS Global portal or downloaded as a PDF
- Two recent passport-sized photos – 35mm × 45mm, colour, white background, taken within the last 6 months
- Travel medical insurance – minimum coverage of €30,000, valid across all Schengen states
- Flight reservation – round-trip booking showing entry and exit dates
- Proof of accommodation – hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter from a host in Latvia
- Proof of financial means – bank statements for the last 3-6 months showing sufficient funds
Additional Documents by Visa Type
For tourist visas:
– Detailed travel itinerary
– Hotel reservations for the entire stay
– Proof of employment or leave approval letter
For business visas:
– Invitation letter from a Latvian company
– Cover letter from your employer in India
– Business registration documents
For student visas:
– Acceptance letter from a Latvian educational institution
– Proof of tuition fee payment
– Scholarship letter (if applicable)
For work visas:
– Employment contract with a Latvian employer
– Work permit issued by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA)
– Qualification certificates
How to Apply for a Latvia Visa from India
Follow these steps to apply for a Latvia visa from India:
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type
Identify the correct visa category based on your travel purpose and duration. Most Indian tourists and business travellers will need a Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C).
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents as listed above. Ensure your passport meets validity requirements and that all documents are up to date.
Step 3: Book an Appointment
Schedule an appointment at the nearest VFS Global Latvia Visa Application Centre in India. VFS Global operates centres in:
– New Delhi
– Mumbai
– Chennai
– Bangalore
– Kolkata
– Hyderabad
Book your appointment online at the VFS Global website at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Attend your appointment in person. Submit all documents, provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph), and pay the visa fee. Biometric data is mandatory for all applicants aged 12 and above.
Step 5: Track Your Application
Use the VFS Global tracking service to monitor your application status. You will receive notifications via email or SMS.
Step 6: Collect Your Passport
Once a decision is made, collect your passport from the VFS centre or opt for courier delivery. The visa sticker will be affixed inside your passport.
Important: India does not have a Latvian embassy that processes visa applications directly. All applications are handled through VFS Global centres, which forward them to the Embassy of Latvia in India (typically based in New Delhi) or the relevant consular authority.
Latvia Visa Fees for Indian Citizens
The visa fees for Indian citizens are standardised under the Schengen visa policy:
| Visa Type | Fee (EUR) | Fee (INR approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Schengen Short-Stay (adults 12+) | €90 | ₹8,100 |
| Schengen Short-Stay (children 6-11) | €45 | ₹4,050 |
| Schengen Short-Stay (children under 6) | Free | Free |
| National Long-Stay (Type D) | €90 | ₹8,100 |
| Airport Transit | €90 | ₹8,100 |
Service fee: VFS Global charges an additional service fee of approximately €20-25 (₹1,800-2,250) per application, paid separately at the centre.
Note: Fees are non-refundable, even if your visa application is denied. The exchange rate may vary; check the current rate before your appointment.
Latvia Visa Processing Time for Indian Citizens
Processing times vary depending on the visa type and the volume of applications:
| Visa Type | Standard Processing | Peak Season |
|---|---|---|
| Schengen Short-Stay | 15 calendar days | Up to 45 days |
| National Long-Stay | 30-60 days | Up to 90 days |
| Airport Transit | 15 calendar days | Up to 30 days |
Tips to avoid delays:
– Apply at least 4-6 weeks before your travel date
– During peak season (May-September), apply 8-10 weeks in advance
– Ensure all documents are complete and correctly formatted
– Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
The Schengen visa code allows applicants to submit their applications up to 6 months before the intended travel date.
Financial Requirements for Latvia Visa
Indian applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover their stay in Latvia:
- Short stays (under 30 days): Minimum of €14 per day of stay
- Stays exceeding 30 days: Minimum of €780 in available funds
- Bank statements: Last 3-6 months showing regular income and adequate balance
The consular officer may request additional proof of financial stability, such as salary slips, income tax returns, or a sponsor’s financial documents if someone in Latvia is hosting you.
Latvia Schengen Visa Validity and Rules
A Latvia Schengen visa allows travel throughout the entire Schengen Area, which includes 29 European countries. Key rules:
- 90/180 rule: You can stay a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day rolling period across all Schengen countries combined
- First entry rule: If Latvia is your main destination, you should apply at the Latvian consulate. If visiting multiple Schengen countries, apply at the consulate of the country where you will spend the most time
- Multiple entry visas: Frequent travellers to Latvia may be granted a multiple-entry visa valid for 1-5 years
- No extension within Schengen: You cannot extend a short-stay visa while in the Schengen Area unless under exceptional circumstances (force majeure, humanitarian reasons)
Latvia Embassy and Consulate Information for India
India does not have a resident Latvian embassy processing visas directly. However, the following diplomatic missions handle consular matters:
- Embassy of Latvia in India – New Delhi handles consular affairs and visa decisions
- VFS Global – Acts as the outsourced partner for visa application submission across India
For the most current contact details and appointment availability, visit the VFS Global Latvia page for India.
Common Reasons for Latvia Visa Rejection
Understanding why applications get rejected can help you prepare a stronger submission:
- Insufficient financial proof – Bank statements showing low balance or irregular income
- Incomplete documentation – Missing required documents or improper formatting
- Lack of travel purpose clarity – Vague or inconsistent travel itinerary
- Previous visa violations – Overstaying in Schengen or other countries
- Invalid passport – Passport expiring within 3 months of return date or lacking blank pages
- Insurance issues – Travel insurance not meeting the €30,000 coverage requirement
If your application is refused, you will receive a written explanation. You have the right to appeal the decision within 15 days or submit a new application with improved documentation.
Tips for a Successful Latvia Visa Application
- Apply early – Give yourself at least 6-8 weeks before your travel date
- Be honest – Provide accurate information in your application. Misrepresentation leads to rejection and future bans
- Organise documents – Present documents in a logical order with clear labels
- Show ties to India – Demonstrate strong ties to your home country (employment, property, family) to prove you will return
- Keep copies – Make photocopies of all submitted documents for your records
- Check passport validity – Ensure it meets the 3-month validity rule and has 2 blank pages
- Book refundable tickets – Use refundable flight and hotel bookings until your visa is approved
Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit Latvia?
Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to visit Latvia. As Latvia is part of the Schengen Area, Indian passport holders must apply for a Schengen visa (Type C) for short stays or a national visa (Type D) for long stays. There is no visa-free access or visa on arrival for Indian nationals.
How much does a Latvia visa cost for Indian citizens?
The standard Schengen visa fee is €90 for adults and children aged 12 and above. Children between 6 and 11 pay a reduced fee of €45, while children under 6 are exempt. VFS Global service charges an additional €20-25 per application.
How long does it take to get a Latvia visa from India?
Standard processing time for a Schengen short-stay visa is 15 calendar days. During peak travel season (May to September), processing can take up to 45 days. National long-stay visas may require 30-60 days. It is recommended to apply at least 4-6 weeks before your travel date.
Can I apply for a Latvia visa online from India?
You can fill out the visa application form online and book an appointment through VFS Global. However, you must submit your application in person at a VFS centre to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph). The entire process cannot be completed purely online.
Is a Latvia visa the same as a Schengen visa?
Yes, a Latvia short-stay visa (Type C) is a Schengen visa. It allows you to travel not only to Latvia but to all 29 Schengen countries within the validity period, subject to the 90/180-day rule.
What is the financial requirement for a Latvia visa?
Indian applicants must show a minimum of €14 per day for stays under 30 days, or at least €780 for longer stays. Bank statements from the last 3-6 months are required to demonstrate sufficient funds.
Can I work in Latvia with a Schengen visa?
No, a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) does not permit employment. To work in Latvia, you need a National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) along with a valid work permit issued by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA).
Where do I submit my Latvia visa application in India?
Latvia visa applications in India are handled by VFS Global. Centres are located in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata, and Hyderabad. Book your appointment through the VFS Global website.
What happens if my Latvia visa is rejected?
If your application is refused, you will receive a written explanation stating the reasons. You can either appeal the decision within 15 days or submit a new application with stronger documentation addressing the reasons for refusal.
Can I visit other European countries with a Latvia Schengen visa?
Yes, a Latvia Schengen visa allows entry to all 29 Schengen countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and others. However, Latvia should be your main destination or first point of entry if you applied for the visa through the Latvian consulate.
