Europe
Latvia offers one of Europe's most affordable digital nomad visas, allowing remote workers from OECD countries to stay up to 2 years while enjoying fast internet, a low cost of living, and access to the entire Schengen Area. The capital Riga features stunning Art Nouveau architecture, a growing coworking scene, and a vibrant tech community. From September 2025, third-country nationals must complete an Electronic Travel Declaration (ETA) 48 hours before arrival.
Visa requirements vary by nationality
Citizens of 60+ countries can enter Latvia visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Valid for tourism, business meetings, and family visits. ETIAS authorization (EUR 20) will be required from Q4 2026 for visa-exempt nationals.
Remote work for a foreign employer is not explicitly prohibited during short tourist stays, but it is not formally authorized either. Latvia does not have specific legislation addressing remote work on tourist entry. For stays requiring regular remote work, the Digital Nomad Visa is the proper route.
No Latvian tax liability if staying under 183 days in any 12-month period and not earning Latvian-sourced income. You remain tax resident in your home country only.
Latvia's digital nomad visa allows remote workers employed by or self-employed in OECD countries to live in Latvia for up to 2 years while working remotely. One of Europe's most affordable digital nomad visas with a favorable 15% flat tax rate option.
Minimum $4,213/per_month
Alternative: Income must be at least 2.5 times the average gross monthly salary in Latvia (EUR 1,685 x 2.5 = EUR 4,213). Bank statements and tax documents from past 6 months required.
This visa explicitly permits remote work for foreign employers or clients.
Extension: 365 days (max 1x)
Cost: €90
Process: Apply for extension at PMLP at least 30 days before current visa expires. Must continue to meet all requirements including income and insurance. Extension is for an additional 1 year.
Renewal: After 2 consecutive years on the digital nomad visa, you can apply for a temporary residence permit if eligible, or leave Latvia for at least 6 months before reapplying. Permanent residence possible after 5 years of legal residence.
Digital nomad visa holders from OECD countries can opt for a flat 15% personal income tax rate (instead of progressive 25.5-33%) for the first 365 days from becoming a Latvian tax resident (183+ days in 12 months). This reduced rate does not allow deductions for education, medical expenses, donations, pension contributions, or the annual non-taxable minimum. After 365 days, standard progressive rates apply: 25.5% up to EUR 105,300/year, 33% above, plus 3% surtax on income over EUR 200,000/year.
Short-stay visa for nationals who require pre-arranged authorization to enter the Schengen Area. Valid for tourism, business, family visits, and transit for up to 90 days within 180-day period. Apply at Latvian embassy or VFS Global center.
Remote work for a foreign employer during a short-stay visit is a legal grey area. The visa is issued for tourism, business meetings, or family visits — not for sustained employment. The Digital Nomad Visa is the proper route for remote workers.
No Latvian tax liability for short stays under 183 days if income is from a foreign employer and not Latvian-sourced. You remain tax resident in your home country.
Temporary residence permit for foreign nationals employed by Latvian companies. Requires job offer from Latvian employer with salary meeting minimum requirements. Valid for up to 5 years with path to permanent residence.
This residence permit is for employment with a Latvian employer or a company operating in Latvia. It does not authorize remote work for a foreign employer. The employer must register the vacancy with the State Employment Agency and sponsor the permit application.
Standard progressive personal income tax applies: 25.5% on annual income up to EUR 105,300, 33% on income above EUR 105,300, plus a 3% surtax on income exceeding EUR 200,000/year. Mandatory social security contributions: 10.5% employee share + 23.59% employer share. Tax-free personal allowance of EUR 550/month applies.
Temporary residence permit for international students enrolled in accredited Latvian educational institutions. Allows part-time work up to 20 hours/week during term time and full-time during holidays. Path to work permit after graduation.
Students can work up to 20 hours/week during term time and full-time (40 hours/week) during holidays — this refers to local employment in Latvia. Remote work for a foreign employer is not explicitly addressed by the permit and exists in a grey area.
If working in Latvia (up to 20h/week allowed), standard progressive income tax applies: 25.5% up to EUR 105,300/year, 33% above. Social security contributions apply to local employment. Students staying 183+ days become tax residents with worldwide income potentially taxable.
Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 1, 2025