Get Your Latvia Visa Online

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Latvia?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea , and most EU/EEA countries can visit Latvia visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This visa-free access extends to all Schengen Area countries. However, citizens of countries including China, India, Russia, South Africa , and most African and Asian nations require a Schengen visa. You can check your visa requirements using the EU's official visa calculator or contact us for personalized guidance based on your nationality.

Q: What is the Schengen Area and how does it affect my Latvia visa?

The Schengen Area is a zone of 27 European countries that have abolished internal border controls, allowing free movement between member states. Latvia joined in 2007. When you obtain a Latvia Schengen visa, you can travel freely throughout all Schengen countries including Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and the other Baltic States. The 90/180 day rule applies to the entire Schengen Area — you can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period across all Schengen countries combined, not 90 days per country. Your visa should be issued by the country that is your main destination or first point of entry if visiting multiple countries equally.

Q: What documents do I need for a Latvia Schengen visa?

The standard documentation includes: Valid passport (issued within 10 years, valid 3+ months beyond planned departure, with 2 blank pages) • Completed application form signed and dated • Biometric photograph (35x45mm, white background, taken within 6 months) • Travel insurance covering minimum EUR 30,000 for medical emergencies across the Schengen Area • Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter) • Flight itinerary showing round-trip reservation • Financial evidence (bank statements showing EUR 50-60 per day, employment letter) • Purpose documentation (business invitation, conference registration, or tourist itinerary). Additional documents may be required based on your specific circumstances.

Q: How long can I stay in Latvia with a Schengen visa?

A standard Schengen visa allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period . This is calculated on a rolling basis — you must count back 180 days from any given day and ensure you haven't exceeded 90 days of presence in the Schengen Area during that window. For example, if you spent 90 days in the Schengen Area, you must wait outside the zone for 90 days before returning. For longer stays, you'll need a National Visa (Type D) or residence permit . The Schengen Visa Calculator (available online) can help you track your permitted stay duration.

Q: Can I extend my Latvia visa while in the country?

Schengen visa extensions are possible only under exceptional circumstances such as force majeure (natural disasters, serious illness, or humanitarian reasons) that prevent you from leaving the Schengen Area before your visa expires. Extensions cannot be granted for tourism or convenience. To request an extension, you must apply to the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (PMLP) in Latvia before your current visa expires, providing evidence of the exceptional circumstances. If approved, the extension is valid only for Latvia. For planned longer stays, you should apply for a National Visa (Type D) before traveling or exit the Schengen Area and apply for a new visa from outside.

Q: Can I work in Latvia with a tourist visa?

No , Schengen tourist visas and visa-free entry strictly prohibit employment in Latvia. Tourist visas are intended for leisure activities, sightseeing, visiting friends and family, and attending unpaid events. Even short-term work, freelance activities, or receiving payment from Latvian sources is not permitted. To work legally in Latvia, you need a work permit and National Visa (Type D) or temporary residence permit . Employers must typically demonstrate that no suitable EU/EEA candidate is available. Working illegally can result in fines, deportation, and future visa bans. Some exceptions exist for business meetings, conferences, and negotiations under business visas, but these don't permit actual employment.

Q: How long does Latvia visa processing take?

Standard processing time for a Latvia Schengen visa is 10-15 business days from the date of application submission. However, processing times can vary based on several factors: nationality (some countries require additional security checks), time of year (summer months and holiday periods may see longer processing), completeness of documentation, and individual circumstances requiring additional verification. During peak travel season (June-August), allow extra time. We recommend applying at least 4-6 weeks before your planned travel date , and no more than 6 months in advance. Urgent processing may be available in certain cases but is not guaranteed and may incur additional fees.

Fast visa processing for tourism, business, and cultural exploration — discover the heart of the Baltic States

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How to Get Your Latvia Visa

Simple 4-step process — most applications processed within 10-15 business days

Complete the online application

Fill out our comprehensive Schengen visa application form with your travel plans, personal details, and purpose of visit. Our intelligent system validates every field in real-time, ensuring your application meets all requirements set by Latvian immigration authorities and Schengen Area regulations.

Upload required documents

Submit your passport scan, recent biometric photograph meeting Schengen specifications, travel insurance documentation, proof of accommodation, and financial evidence. Our document specialists review every submission to ensure compliance with Latvia's visa requirements before forwarding to authorities.

We process your application

Your verified application is prepared for submission to the Latvian embassy or consulate. Our team monitors processing status and proactively handles any additional documentation requests from Latvian authorities, keeping you informed at every stage via email notifications.

Receive your Latvia visa

Once approved, your Schengen visa will be stamped in your passport. This visa grants you access to Latvia and all 27 Schengen Area countries. Welcome to Latvia — Laipni ludzam! Your Baltic adventure through this charming nation begins.

Traveler planning Latvia trip with laptop showing Riga skyline while enjoying coffee

Visa types needed for Latvia

Latvia ETA - 30 days, Single entry

The Latvia Electronic Travel Authorization provides access to Riga's Art Nouveau architecture, Baltic beaches, and medieval towns. Valid for 30 Days with single entry, this visa allows stays up to 30 days. Perfect for tourism and business.

Applicants must submit the following documents:

🛂 Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with blank pages
📸 Digital Photo: Recent passport-style photograph
✈️ Travel Details: Confirmed travel itinerary
🏨 Accommodation: Hotel or host booking
💳 Payment: Credit or debit card for fee

Important to know

Maximum stay: 30 days per visit
Print visa for presentation at immigration

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Latvia Visa Requirements & Entry Information

Schengen Tourist Visa

Up to 90 days

For leisure travel, sightseeing, and visiting friends or family

Schengen Business Visa

Up to 90 days

For business meetings, conferences, and commercial activities

Transit Visa

Up to 5 days

For travelers passing through Latvia to non-Schengen destinations

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 90 days

Citizens of 60+ countries can visit without a visa

Essential Requirements

📘Passport valid 3+ months beyond stay with 2 blank pages
📷Biometric photo: 35x45mm, white background, recent
🏥Travel insurance covering minimum EUR 30,000
🏨Confirmed hotel booking or invitation letter
💰Proof of funds: EUR 50-60 per day of stay
✈️Round-trip flight reservation or travel itinerary

Schengen Visa & Visa-Free Travel

Latvia is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, which means your Latvia visa grants access to all 27 Schengen countries without additional border checks. This makes Latvia an excellent gateway for exploring the Baltic region and beyond. Citizens of over 60 countries enjoy visa-free access to Latvia for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This includes travelers from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most South American nations. During this period, you can engage in tourism, visit friends and family, attend business meetings, or participate in cultural events. For nationals requiring a visa, the Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) is the standard option. This visa permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period and can be issued for single, double, or multiple entries depending on your travel history and purpose. First-time applicants typically receive single or double-entry visas, while frequent travelers may qualify for multiple-entry visas valid for one to five years.

Cobblestone streets of Riga Old Town with colorful medieval merchant houses and St. Peter's Church spire — Riga Old Town — A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Latvia's cultural heart

Business & Long-Stay Visas

Business Visa Requirements The Schengen business visa allows you to attend meetings, conferences, trade fairs, and negotiate contracts in Latvia. Required documentation includes an invitation letter from your Latvian business partner, proof of your company's registration, and details of planned business activities. Business visas do not permit employment — any paid work requires a separate work permit and national visa. Long-Stay National Visa (Type D) For stays exceeding 90 days, you'll need a Latvian national visa (Type D). This applies to students enrolled in Latvian universities, employees with work contracts, family reunification cases, and long-term business assignments. The national visa allows you to remain in Latvia for up to one year and can be converted to a residence permit for extended stays. Digital Nomad Visa Latvia offers opportunities for remote workers through its temporary residence permit program. Digital nomads working for foreign companies can apply for permits allowing stays of up to one year, renewable for additional periods. You'll need to demonstrate stable income from foreign sources and comprehensive health insurance coverage.

Modern glass office buildings in Riga's business district with Art Nouveau architecture in the background — Riga's evolving skyline — Where historic charm meets modern business

Application Requirements & Fees

Essential Documentation All Schengen visa applicants must provide: • Valid passport: Issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area, with minimum 2 blank pages • Biometric photograph: Recent (within 6 months), 35x45mm, white background, neutral expression, no glasses • Travel insurance: Minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation, valid throughout the Schengen Area • Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservations, rental agreement, or invitation letter from a host in Latvia • Financial evidence: Bank statements showing approximately EUR 50-60 per day of stay, employment letter, or sponsorship declaration • Flight itinerary: Round-trip reservation showing entry and exit from the Schengen Area Visa Fees The standard Schengen visa fee is EUR 80 for adults and EUR 40 for children aged 6-12. Children under 6 are exempt from fees. Some nationalities benefit from reduced fees under bilateral agreements with the EU. Processing times are typically 10-15 business days, though applications during peak summer season may take longer.

Sandy beach at Jurmala resort town with traditional wooden architecture and pine forests along the Baltic Sea — Jurmala — Latvia's premier seaside resort just 25km from Riga

Entry Points & Travel Tips

International Gateways Most visitors arrive through Riga International Airport (RIX), the largest airport in the Baltic States and a major hub for airBaltic airline. The airport offers direct connections to over 80 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Immigration processing is typically efficient, with Schengen Area arrivals using automated e-gates. Latvia can also be reached by land from Estonia (north), Lithuania (south), Belarus, and Russia. The Riga Central Station connects to international rail services, while numerous bus companies operate routes throughout the Baltics and to major European cities. Best Time to Visit Latvia experiences four distinct seasons. Summer (June-August) offers the best weather with long days and the famous White Nights around the summer solstice — perfect for exploring beaches, national parks, and outdoor festivals. Winter (December-February) brings snowy landscapes, Christmas markets, and excellent conditions for spa retreats. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer mild weather, fewer tourists, and beautiful nature as forests transform with the seasons. Currency & Practical Information Latvia uses the Euro (EUR), making transactions seamless for visitors from other Eurozone countries. Credit cards are widely accepted, though carrying some cash is advisable for smaller establishments and markets. English is commonly spoken in Riga and tourist areas, alongside Latvian and Russian.

Autumn colors in Gauja National Park with the medieval Turaida Castle overlooking the forested valley — Gauja National Park — Latvia's Switzerland with castles and ancient forests

Why Choose DoVisa?

See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service

Feature	📋Applying Yourself	With DoVisa
Application reviewExpert review before submission	✗No expert check	✓100% reviewed by experts
Document validationCheck documents meet requirements	✗Risk of rejection	✓Pre-checked for errors
Customer supportHelp when you have questions	✗Government offices only	✓24/7 dedicated support
Form guidanceAssistance filling out forms	✗Complex forms alone	✓Step-by-step guidance
Status trackingKnow where your application is	✗Manual checking	✓Real-time updates
Refund if deniedProtection if visa is rejected	✗No refund possible	✓Money-back guarantee

1,000+Visas processed

24/7Expert support

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97%Approval rate

James T.Jan 15, 2026

"Excellent service for my Schengen visa through Latvia. The team helped me prepare all documents perfectly and my visa was approved in just 12 days. Now exploring beautiful Riga!"

Maria S.Jan 8, 2026

"DoVisa made my business visa application so much easier. They reviewed my invitation letter and caught some issues before submission. Highly professional service."

Robert K.Dec 29, 2025

"Good experience overall. The process took a bit longer than expected (18 days) but the support team kept me informed throughout. Visa was approved without issues."

Elena P.Dec 18, 2025

"First time applying for a Schengen visa and I was nervous about the requirements. DoVisa walked me through everything step by step. Received my multiple-entry visa!"

Michael B.Dec 5, 2025

"Applied through DoVisa for a trip to Latvia to visit family. The document checklist was comprehensive and the support team answered all my questions promptly."

Anna W.Nov 22, 2025

"Visa application went smoothly. The only reason for 4 stars is the service fee is a bit higher than competitors, but the quality of support justifies the cost."

David L.Nov 10, 2025

"Third time using DoVisa and they never disappoint. My Latvia visa was processed quickly and the team even helped me find suitable travel insurance. Excellent!"

Sarah H.Oct 28, 2025

"Planning a Baltic States tour and used DoVisa for my Schengen entry through Latvia. Very helpful team who explained the 90/180 day rule clearly. Trip was amazing!"

Thomas R.Oct 15, 2025

"Decent service. Had some delays with document verification but the visa came through eventually. Would use again for future trips."

Jennifer M.Sep 30, 2025

"DoVisa helped me get my visa for a conference in Riga. They understood the business requirements perfectly. Very impressed with their knowledge of Latvian visa procedures."

Peter N.Aug 18, 2025

"Quick and professional service. Applied on Monday, got my visa approval notification within two weeks. Latvia is beautiful and worth the visit!"

Linda C.Jul 5, 2025

"Good support team who helped clarify the financial documentation requirements. My visa was approved and I had a wonderful time in Jurmala."

Latvia Visa FAQs

What types of visas are available for Latvia?

Latvia, as a Schengen Area member, offers several visa categories. The Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) is most common, allowing stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism, business, family visits, or cultural events. For longer stays, the National Visa (Type D) permits residence up to one year for work, study, or family reunification. Transit visas are available for travelers passing through Latvia to non-Schengen destinations. Additionally, citizens of over 60 countries enjoy visa-free entry for short stays. Each visa type has specific documentation requirements and permitted activities.

Do I need a visa to visit Latvia?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most EU/EEA countries can visit Latvia visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This visa-free access extends to all Schengen Area countries. However, citizens of countries including China, India, Russia, South Africa, and most African and Asian nations require a Schengen visa. You can check your visa requirements using the EU's official visa calculator or contact us for personalized guidance based on your nationality.

What is the Schengen Area and how does it affect my Latvia visa?

The Schengen Area is a zone of 27 European countries that have abolished internal border controls, allowing free movement between member states. Latvia joined in 2007. When you obtain a Latvia Schengen visa, you can travel freely throughout all Schengen countries including Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and the other Baltic States. The 90/180 day rule applies to the entire Schengen Area — you can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period across all Schengen countries combined, not 90 days per country. Your visa should be issued by the country that is your main destination or first point of entry if visiting multiple countries equally.

What documents do I need for a Latvia Schengen visa?

The standard documentation includes: Valid passport (issued within 10 years, valid 3+ months beyond planned departure, with 2 blank pages) • Completed application form signed and dated • Biometric photograph (35x45mm, white background, taken within 6 months) • Travel insurance covering minimum EUR 30,000 for medical emergencies across the Schengen Area • Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter) • Flight itinerary showing round-trip reservation • Financial evidence (bank statements showing EUR 50-60 per day, employment letter) • Purpose documentation (business invitation, conference registration, or tourist itinerary). Additional documents may be required based on your specific circumstances.

How long can I stay in Latvia with a Schengen visa?

A standard Schengen visa allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is calculated on a rolling basis — you must count back 180 days from any given day and ensure you haven't exceeded 90 days of presence in the Schengen Area during that window. For example, if you spent 90 days in the Schengen Area, you must wait outside the zone for 90 days before returning. For longer stays, you'll need a National Visa (Type D) or residence permit. The Schengen Visa Calculator (available online) can help you track your permitted stay duration.

Can I extend my Latvia visa while in the country?

Schengen visa extensions are possible only under exceptional circumstances such as force majeure (natural disasters, serious illness, or humanitarian reasons) that prevent you from leaving the Schengen Area before your visa expires. Extensions cannot be granted for tourism or convenience. To request an extension, you must apply to the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (PMLP) in Latvia before your current visa expires, providing evidence of the exceptional circumstances. If approved, the extension is valid only for Latvia. For planned longer stays, you should apply for a National Visa (Type D) before traveling or exit the Schengen Area and apply for a new visa from outside.

Can I work in Latvia with a tourist visa?

No, Schengen tourist visas and visa-free entry strictly prohibit employment in Latvia. Tourist visas are intended for leisure activities, sightseeing, visiting friends and family, and attending unpaid events. Even short-term work, freelance activities, or receiving payment from Latvian sources is not permitted. To work legally in Latvia, you need a work permit and National Visa (Type D) or temporary residence permit. Employers must typically demonstrate that no suitable EU/EEA candidate is available. Working illegally can result in fines, deportation, and future visa bans. Some exceptions exist for business meetings, conferences, and negotiations under business visas, but these don't permit actual employment.

Do I need to print my Latvia visa?

Unlike electronic visas used by some countries, Schengen visas for Latvia are physical stickers affixed to your passport. When your visa is approved, you'll need to submit your passport to the embassy or visa application center to have the visa sticker placed on one of your blank pages. This means you must physically retrieve your passport after approval. Always check that all details on the visa sticker (name spelling, passport number, validity dates, permitted entries) are correct before leaving the embassy. Keep your passport safe as the visa cannot be transferred to a new passport if yours is lost or stolen — you would need to apply for a new visa.

How long does Latvia visa processing take?

Standard processing time for a Latvia Schengen visa is 10-15 business days from the date of application submission. However, processing times can vary based on several factors: nationality (some countries require additional security checks), time of year (summer months and holiday periods may see longer processing), completeness of documentation, and individual circumstances requiring additional verification. During peak travel season (June-August), allow extra time. We recommend applying at least 4-6 weeks before your planned travel date, and no more than 6 months in advance. Urgent processing may be available in certain cases but is not guaranteed and may incur additional fees.

What if my Latvia visa application is rejected?

Visa rejections, while uncommon (under 5% of applications), can occur for various reasons. Common rejection causes include: insufficient financial documentation, inadequate travel insurance, unclear purpose of visit, incomplete or inconsistent application, previous Schengen visa violations, or security concerns. If rejected, you'll receive a written notification explaining the reason. You have the right to appeal the decision within one month to the Administrative District Court in Riga. Alternatively, you can address the issues cited and reapply immediately with corrected documentation. DoVisa provides pre-submission review to catch common issues, and if your visa is rejected due to an error on our part, we offer a full refund of our service fee plus complimentary reapplication assistance.

What is the best time to visit Latvia?

Summer (June-August) is peak season with warm temperatures (20-25C), long daylight hours, and the magical White Nights around the summer solstice when darkness barely falls. This is perfect for beach trips to Jurmala, hiking in Gauja National Park, and enjoying outdoor festivals like the Riga City Festival and Latvian Song and Dance Festival. Winter (December-February) brings snow, Christmas markets in Riga, and excellent opportunities for spa retreats and winter sports. Temperatures range from -5C to -10C. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer mild weather, fewer tourists, lower prices, and beautiful natural scenery as forests bloom or display fall colors. Each season offers unique experiences in this Baltic nation.

What are the main entry points for Latvia?

The primary entry point is Riga International Airport (RIX), the largest airport in the Baltic States, located 10km from Riga city center. It serves as a major hub for airBaltic airline with connections to over 80 destinations. Immigration processing is efficient, with automated e-gates available for EU/EEA citizens and many visa-free travelers. Land borders connect Latvia with Estonia (north), Lithuania (south), Russia (east), and Belarus (southeast). The Riga Central Station offers international rail connections. Ferry services operate from Riga and Ventspils to destinations in Sweden and Germany. When arriving from another Schengen country, there are no border controls — your passport is checked only at your first Schengen entry point.

Do I need travel insurance for my Latvia visa?

Yes, travel medical insurance is mandatory for all Schengen visa applications. Your policy must meet these requirements: minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 for medical emergencies including hospital treatment and medical repatriation; valid throughout all Schengen Area countries (not just Latvia); covering the entire duration of your stay plus a buffer of a few days; issued by a company recognized in the EU/Schengen Area. The insurance must cover emergency medical treatment, hospital stays, and repatriation to your home country if needed. Travel insurance without medical coverage (like trip cancellation only) is not sufficient. DoVisa can help you identify suitable insurance providers that meet Schengen requirements.

Can I travel to other countries with my Latvia Schengen visa?

Yes, your Latvia Schengen visa allows you to travel freely throughout all 27 Schengen member countries without additional visas or border checks. These include: Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, and others. You can enter through Latvia and explore the entire Schengen zone during your permitted stay. However, remember that the 90-day limit applies to your total time in all Schengen countries combined, not per country. Also, your visa should ideally be issued by your main destination country — if questioned, be prepared to explain your itinerary. Non-Schengen EU members like Ireland and Cyprus require separate visas.

What currency is used in Latvia and how should I manage money?

Latvia uses the Euro (EUR), having adopted it in 2014. This makes travel convenient for visitors from other Eurozone countries. Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in Riga and tourist areas — contactless payments are common. However, carry some cash for smaller establishments, markets, rural areas, and the occasional business that doesn't accept cards. ATMs are readily available throughout cities and towns. When exchanging currency, avoid airport exchange counters which typically offer poor rates — use ATMs or banks instead. Tipping is not obligatory but 10% is appreciated for good service in restaurants. Latvia is generally more affordable than Western European countries.

What should I know about Latvian customs and entry restrictions?

When entering Latvia from outside the EU, standard customs limits apply: 200 cigarettes, 1 liter of spirits (over 22%) or 2 liters of wine, and goods valued up to EUR 300 (or EUR 430 if arriving by air/sea). Prohibited items include drugs, weapons, endangered species products, and certain food items (meat and dairy from non-EU countries). When traveling between Schengen/EU countries, there are no customs checks, but you must declare cash amounts exceeding EUR 10,000 when entering or leaving the EU. Latvia has strict regulations on amber products (the Baltic region is famous for amber) — ensure any amber you purchase comes with proper documentation to avoid issues at customs.