Latvia, a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area since 2007, offers several visa categories depending on your travel purpose and duration of stay. Understanding which visa type suits your needs is the first step toward a successful application.
Schengen Visa (Type C)
The Schengen short-stay visa is the most common visa for Latvia. It allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period across all 27 Schengen member states.
Single-Entry Schengen Visa
A single-entry visa permits one entry into the Schengen Area. Once you exit, the visa is no longer valid regardless of remaining days.
Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa
A multiple-entry visa allows unlimited entries and exits during its validity period. First-time applicants typically receive a single-entry visa, while frequent travelers may qualify for multi-entry visas valid for one, three, or five years.
Schengen Visa by Purpose of Travel
- Tourist Visa – for sightseeing, holidays, and leisure travel across Latvia and the Schengen zone
- Business Visa – for attending meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or professional engagements in Latvia
- Family Visit Visa – for visiting family members legally residing in Latvia
- Medical Visa – for receiving medical treatment at Latvian healthcare facilities
- Cultural / Sports / Events Visa – for participating in cultural events, sports competitions, or official exchange programs
- Study Visa (short-term) – for courses, training, or academic programs lasting under 90 days
National Visa (Type D)
The national long-stay visa is required for stays exceeding 90 days but not exceeding one year. A Type D visa is issued for specific purposes and is governed by Latvian national immigration law.
Common Categories of National Visa
- Employment Visa – for foreign nationals with a confirmed job offer from a Latvian employer. Requires a work permit issued by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA).
- Study Visa – for students enrolled in accredited Latvian educational institutions. Valid for the duration of the academic program.
- Family Reunification Visa – for joining a spouse, parent, or close family member who is a Latvian citizen or permanent resident.
- Entrepreneur / Business Visa – for individuals establishing or managing a business registered in Latvia.
- Research Visa – for researchers and scientists conducting studies at Latvian institutions under a hosting agreement.
- Seasonal Work Visa – for employment in agriculture, fishing, or tourism during defined seasonal periods.
A national visa may also serve as a basis for obtaining a residence permit if the applicant plans to stay longer than one year.
Airport Transit Visa (Type A)
The airport transit visa is required for citizens of certain countries who need to pass through the international transit area of a Latvian airport without entering the Schengen territory.
This visa does not permit you to leave the airport’s international zone. It is mandatory for nationals of countries listed in Annex IV of the Schengen Visa Code who are connecting flights through Riga International Airport.
Transit Visa (Type B)
The transit visa (largely replaced by the Schengen Type C visa) historically allowed passage through Latvia for up to five days. Today, travelers transiting through Latvia by land or sea typically apply for a standard Schengen visa with a transit purpose.
Latvia Visa-Free Regime
Citizens of over 60 countries can enter Latvia without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days. This includes nationals of the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Brazil, and other countries with EU visa-liberalization agreements.
Even under the visa-free regime, travelers must carry a valid passport, proof of accommodation, sufficient financial means, and valid travel insurance.
Golden Visa / Investment Residence Permit
Latvia offers a residence permit program for qualifying foreign investors. Eligible investment routes include:
- Real estate investment – minimum €250,000 in Latvian property with a state fee
- Business investment – minimum €50,000 in a Latvian company with annual tax contributions
- Bank deposit – minimum €280,000 in a Latvian credit institution for at least five years
This is not a visa per se but a residence permit that grants the right to live in Latvia and travel freely within the Schengen Area.
EU Blue Card
Highly qualified professionals from non-EU countries may apply for the EU Blue Card in Latvia. Requirements include:
- A university degree or equivalent professional experience
- A binding job offer in Latvia with a salary at least 1.5 times the national average
- Valid health insurance and proof of accommodation
The EU Blue Card facilitates labor mobility across EU member states after 18 months of legal residence in the issuing country.
Diplomatic and Service Visa
Diplomatic and official passport holders may apply for a diplomatic or service visa to enter Latvia for government-related purposes. These visas are processed through diplomatic channels and are subject to bilateral agreements.
How to Choose the Right Visa Type
When planning your trip to Latvia, consider these factors:
- Duration of stay – under 90 days (Schengen) or over 90 days (national visa)
- Purpose of travel – tourism, business, work, study, family reunion, or transit
- Nationality – some nationalities are exempt from visa requirements entirely
- Number of entries – single vs. multiple entries based on your travel itinerary
- Long-term plans – if you intend to settle, a national visa leading to a residence permit is more appropriate
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in Latvia on a Schengen tourist visa?
No. A Schengen tourist visa does not authorize employment. You must apply for a national work visa or hold an EU Blue Card.
How long does it take to process a Latvia visa?
Schengen visa applications are typically processed within 15 calendar days. National visas may take up to 30 days or longer depending on the category.
Can I extend my Schengen visa while in Latvia?
Extensions are granted only in exceptional circumstances such as force majeure, humanitarian reasons, or serious personal reasons. Apply at the OCMA office in Riga before your visa expires.
Is a Latvia Schengen visa valid for all EU countries?
A Schengen visa allows travel throughout the 27 Schengen member states, but not all EU countries are in the Schengen Area (e.g., Ireland, Cyprus). Conversely, some non-EU countries like Norway and Switzerland are part of Schengen.
