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Latvia

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.

5
Visa Types
62
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:

Visa requirements vary by nationality

🎫 Available Visa Types

⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Tourist

Schengen Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of 60+ countries can enter Latvia visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to tourism, business meetings, and family visits. From September 2025, many nationalities must complete an Electronic Travel Declaration (ETA) 48 hours before arrival.

90 days
Duration
€0
<$1 fee
+€107 additional

✅ Key Benefits

✓No visa application required before travel
✓Immediate entry at border
✓Free movement across all 29 Schengen countries
✓Valid for tourism, business meetings, family visits
✓Multiple entries allowed within the 90/180 day period
✓Can attend conferences and short-term training
📋 Requirements (7)
  • •Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond planned departure date
  • •Passport issued within the last 10 years with at least 2 blank pages
  • •Proof of sufficient funds (EUR 14/day for stays up to 30 days, EUR 740 for longer stays)
  • •Return or onward ticket (may be requested at border)
  • •Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, invitation letter, or rental agreement)
  • •Travel medical insurance with EUR 30,000 minimum coverage (recommended)
  • •Electronic Travel Declaration via eta.gov.lv (required 48 hours before arrival for non-exempt nationals from September 2025)
📝 Application Process
Embassy Required⏱ Immediate at border
  1. 1Check if your nationality qualifies for visa-free entry to the Schengen Area
  2. 2Complete the Electronic Travel Declaration (ETA) at eta.gov.lv at least 48 hours before arrival if required (from September 2025)
  3. 3Ensure passport validity of at least 3 months beyond planned departure
  4. 4Prepare proof of accommodation and return ticket
  5. 5Have proof of sufficient funds available
  6. 6Obtain travel medical insurance (recommended)
  7. 7Present documents at Latvian border upon arrival
  8. 8Entry is granted immediately if requirements are met
Apply Online

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Use the official Schengen calculator at ec.europa.eu to track your 90/180 days accurately
  • •The 90-day limit applies to your TOTAL time in ALL Schengen countries combined
  • •Check if you need to complete the ETA declaration at eta.gov.lv before travel (from September 2025)
  • •Keep all hotel bookings and financial documents accessible for border control
  • •EU/EEA, NATO, OECD, and Swiss citizens are exempt from the ETA requirement
  • •Arriving without required ETA may result in fines up to EUR 2,000
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Special Program

Digital Nomad Visa (Long-Stay Visa for Remote Work)

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.

365 days
Duration
€90
$98 fee
+€620 additional

💰 Income Requirement

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.

✅ Key Benefits

✓Legal right to live in Latvia for up to 2 years
✓Work remotely for your OECD-based employer or business
✓Access to 15% flat personal income tax rate (optional registration)
✓Free movement within all 29 Schengen countries
✓Affordable visa fee (EUR 90) compared to other European digital nomad visas
✓Path to temporary and permanent residence after 2 years
✓Access to Latvia's excellent internet infrastructure
✓No local sponsorship required
📋 Requirements (9)
  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond visa period
  • •Completed visa application form (online at epak.pmlp.gov.lv)
  • •Recent passport photo (not older than 6 months)
  • •Health insurance policy valid in Latvia and Schengen states (minimum EUR 42,600 coverage)
  • •Proof of accommodation in Latvia (rental contract, hotel booking, or host invitation)
  • •For employees: Document from OECD country tax/social insurance authority certifying current employment
  • •For employees: Letter from employer confirming 6+ months employment, remote work capability, and salary of at least EUR 4,213/month
  • •For self-employed: Tax authority document from OECD country showing 6 months income of at least EUR 4,213/month
  • •Proof of payment of state fee (EUR 90 standard or EUR 120 expedited)
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application⏱ Approximately 4 weeks, processing times may vary
  1. 1Verify you are employed by an OECD-registered employer or self-employed in an OECD country
  2. 2Confirm your monthly income is at least EUR 4,213 (2.5x Latvian average salary)
  3. 3Obtain employment verification from your OECD country tax or social insurance authority
  4. 4Get letter from employer confirming remote work capability and 6+ months employment
  5. 5Secure health insurance with EUR 42,600 minimum coverage
  6. 6Arrange accommodation in Latvia
  7. 7Complete online visa application at epak.pmlp.gov.lv
  8. 8Submit documents to PMLP by mail or in person at territorial division
  9. 9Pay state fee (EUR 90 standard)
  10. 10Wait for processing (approximately 4 weeks)
  11. 11Receive visa and enter Latvia
  12. 12Optionally register with tax authorities for 15% flat tax rate
Apply Online
🔄 Extension & Renewal

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.

💡 Pro Tips

  • •OECD countries include: US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and all EU/EEA countries
  • •The 15% flat tax rate is more favorable than progressive rates (20-31%) for most income levels
  • •Register as taxpayer with State Revenue Service (VID) to claim the 15% rate
  • •Consider Riga's growing coworking scene - spaces like Double9, TechHub Riga, and Workland are popular
  • •Coworking costs typically EUR 150-300/month or EUR 15-30/day
  • •Living costs in Riga average EUR 1,500-2,000/month including rent

Schengen Visa (Type C)

TouristPopular

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.

90d
Duration
€170
$184 fee
+€140 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱10-15 calendar days, up to 45 days in complex cases
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
EURUSD
Required
Visa application fee (adult)Standard Schengen visa fee from 2025
€90$98
Visa application fee (child 6-11)Reduced fee for children aged 6 to 11 years
€45$49
VFS service feeIf applying through VFS Global center
€35$38
Additional (estimated)
Travel insurance (90 days)Mandatory EUR 30,000 minimum coverage
€50$54
Expedited processingAdditional fee for urgent processing where available
€90$98
Required Total
€170$184
+ Additional (estimated)
€140$152
Estimated Total
€310$336
💱1 USD = 0.92 EUR•Updated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond departure, 2 blank pages, issued within 10 years
  • •Completed visa application form (online at epak.pmlp.gov.lv)
  • •Recent passport photo (35x45mm, taken within 6 months, white background)
  • •Travel medical insurance covering all Schengen states (EUR 30,000 minimum including repatriation)
  • •Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, rental agreement, or invitation letter)
  • •Round-trip flight reservation or detailed travel itinerary
  • •Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, EUR 14/day for up to 30 days, EUR 740 for longer stays)
  • •Employment verification letter or proof of income
  • •Invitation letter from Latvian host if visiting family/friends
  • •Biometric data collection (fingerprints, unless collected in past 5 years)

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Determine if you need to apply at Latvian embassy or VFS Global center
  2. 2Book an appointment at the Latvian embassy or VFS center in your country
  3. 3Complete the online application form at epak.pmlp.gov.lv
  4. 4Gather all required documents including passport photos and insurance
  5. 5Attend your appointment with all documents and application fee
  6. 6Provide biometric data (fingerprints) if not collected in past 5 years
  7. 7Wait for processing (typically 10-15 calendar days)
  8. 8Collect your passport with visa sticker or receive by mail
  9. 9If rejected, you can appeal within 30 days to the Consular Department

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Cannot work or perform remote work in Latvia
  • •Maximum 90 days in any 180-day period across entire Schengen Area
  • •Must apply before travel (cannot get at border)
  • •Rejection rate approximately 10-15% depending on nationality
  • •Cannot apply for residence permit from within Latvia
  • •Biometric data collection required for most applicants

💡 Tips

  • •Apply at least 15 days before travel but not earlier than 6 months
  • •If visiting multiple Schengen countries, apply at embassy of main destination or first entry country
  • •VFS Global offers appointment booking in many countries - check visa.vfsglobal.com
  • •Reduced fees apply for certain Western Balkans nationals (EUR 35)
  • •Children under 6 are exempt from visa fees but VFS service charges still apply
  • •Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records

Residence Permit for Employment

WorkPopular

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.

365d
Duration
€225
$244 fee
+€930 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱30 days standard, 10 days expedited (EUR 280), 5 days urgent (EUR 560)
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
EURUSD
Required
Residence permit application (30 days processing)Standard processing within 30 days
€160$174
Work permit componentAdditional fee for right to employment
€55$60
Invitation approvalElectronic submission via latvija.gov.lv
€10$11
Additional (estimated)
Expedited processing (10 days)Faster processing option
€280$304
Urgent processing (5 days)Fastest processing option
€560$608
D-type entry visaRequired to enter Latvia to collect permit
€90$98
Required Total
€225$244
+ Additional (estimated)
€930$1.0K
Estimated Total
€1,155$1.3K
💱1 USD = 0.92 EUR•Updated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond permit period
  • •Completed application form
  • •Employment contract from Latvian employer
  • •Employer's approved invitation via latvija.gov.lv
  • •Proof of qualifications and education (apostilled/legalized)
  • •Recent passport photo
  • •Health insurance or confirmation of registration with Latvian social security
  • •Proof of accommodation in Latvia
  • •Clean criminal record certificate (for certain sectors)
  • •Proof of payment of state fees

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Latvian employer initiates the process by submitting invitation via latvija.gov.lv
  2. 2PMLP reviews and approves the invitation
  3. 3Complete residence permit application at nearest Latvian embassy or online
  4. 4Submit all required documents including employment contract
  5. 5Pay state fees (EUR 160 + EUR 55 for work permit + EUR 10 invitation)
  6. 6Wait for PMLP decision (typically 30 days)
  7. 7If approved from abroad, obtain D-type visa to enter Latvia (EUR 90)
  8. 8Collect residence permit card at PMLP office in Latvia
  9. 9Register address within 30 days of arrival

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Initially tied to specific employer - changing jobs requires new permit
  • •Minimum salary requirements must be maintained
  • •Cannot freelance without separate authorization
  • •Must apply from outside Latvia for first permit (most cases)
  • •Loss of employment may affect permit validity
  • •Must register address with PMLP within 30 days

💡 Tips

  • •Minimum wage in Latvia is EUR 740/month as of 2025
  • •Work permit applications require employer sponsorship - start job search early
  • •IT sector offers best opportunities for English-speaking workers
  • •EU Blue Card available for highly qualified professionals with higher salary thresholds
  • •Processing can be expedited for additional fees if urgent

Residence Permit for Studies

EducationPopular

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.

365d
Duration
€170
$184 fee
+€370 additional
📍Apply: Online
⏱30 days standard, expedited options available
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
EURUSD
Required
Residence permit application (30 days)Standard processing
€160$174
Invitation approvalElectronic submission
€10$11
Additional (estimated)
D-type entry visaRequired to enter Latvia to collect permit
€90$98
Expedited processing (10 days)Faster processing option
€280$304
Required Total
€170$184
+ Additional (estimated)
€370$401
Estimated Total
€540$586
💱1 USD = 0.92 EUR•Updated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond permit period
  • •Acceptance letter from accredited Latvian educational institution
  • •Proof of financial means (EUR 740/month for living expenses)
  • •Proof of tuition payment or scholarship
  • •Health insurance valid in Latvia
  • •Recent passport photo
  • •Previous academic transcripts and diplomas (apostilled/legalized)
  • •Proof of accommodation in Latvia
  • •Language proficiency certificate if required by institution

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Apply and receive acceptance from accredited Latvian institution
  2. 2Institution submits invitation to PMLP on your behalf
  3. 3Complete residence permit application online or at embassy
  4. 4Submit all required documents including acceptance letter
  5. 5Provide proof of financial means and tuition payment
  6. 6Pay state fees (EUR 160 + EUR 10)
  7. 7Wait for PMLP decision (typically 30 days)
  8. 8If approved, obtain D-type visa to enter Latvia (EUR 90)
  9. 9Collect residence permit at PMLP office
  10. 10Register for studies and address within 30 days

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Must maintain student status and academic progress
  • •Work limited to 20 hours/week during studies (except holidays)
  • •Permit not valid for purely online/distance learning programs
  • •Must apply from outside Latvia for first permit (most cases)
  • •Permit revoked if studies abandoned
  • •Must re-apply if changing educational institution

💡 Tips

  • •Popular universities include University of Latvia, Riga Technical University, and Riga Stradins University
  • •Many programs offered in English, especially at postgraduate level
  • •Tuition fees range from EUR 2,000-15,000/year depending on program
  • •Check studyinlatvia.lv for official information on programs and institutions
  • •Consider Riga for the best student life and part-time job opportunities

📊 Quick Facts

CapitalRiga
CurrencyEUR (€)
LanguageLatvian
TimezoneUTC+2 (EET)
Last UpdatedDec 1, 2025

🔗 Official Resources

Immigration BureauEmbassy Website

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Does Latvia have a digital nomad visa?
Yes! Latvia introduced its Digital Nomad Visa (officially called "Long-Stay Visa for Remote Work") in 2022. It allows remote workers employed by or self-employed in OECD countries to live in Latvia for up to 2 years (1 year initial, renewable for 1 more year). The visa costs just EUR 90 and requires proof of income of at least EUR 4,213/month (2.5 times the Latvian average gross salary). This is one of the most affordable digital nomad visas in Europe.
Can I work remotely in Latvia on a tourist visa?
Working remotely in Latvia on a tourist visa or visa-free entry falls into a legal gray area. While Latvia doesn't explicitly prohibit remote work for foreign employers during short stays, it's not technically authorized. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days or want legal certainty, the Digital Nomad Visa is the proper option. It provides legal status and access to a favorable 15% flat tax rate. Digital nomad visa holders can also open bank accounts more easily and access services.
What is the new Electronic Travel Declaration (ETA) requirement from September 2025?
From September 1, 2025, Latvia requires certain third-country nationals to complete an Electronic Travel Declaration (ETA) at eta.gov.lv at least 48 hours before entering Latvia. This is NOT a visa but a mandatory security declaration. EXEMPTIONS: Citizens of EU, EEA, NATO, OECD countries, Switzerland, and Brazil are exempt and do NOT need to complete the ETA. The declaration is free and provides instant confirmation. Failure to submit may result in fines up to EUR 2,000 or entry denial.
How long can I stay in Latvia as a tourist?
Visa-free visitors and Schengen visa holders can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period. IMPORTANT: This limit applies to your total time in ALL 29 Schengen countries combined, not just Latvia. Use the official Schengen calculator at ec.europa.eu/home-affairs to track your days. After reaching 90 days, you must leave the Schengen Area for at least 90 days before returning. For longer stays, consider the Digital Nomad Visa (up to 2 years) or residence permit.
What are the best cities in Latvia for digital nomads?
Riga is the top choice for digital nomads, offering numerous coworking spaces (Double9, TechHub Riga, Workland), fast internet (77 Mbps average), vibrant culture, and a growing tech community. Cost of living is EUR 1,500-2,000/month including rent. Other options include Jūrmala (beach resort 30 min from Riga, great for summer), Liepāja (coastal city with lower costs), and Daugavpils (very affordable second city). Most digital nomad infrastructure is concentrated in Riga.
What is the cost of living in Latvia for digital nomads?
Latvia is one of Europe's more affordable countries. In Riga, expect to spend EUR 1,500-2,000/month for a comfortable lifestyle including: rent EUR 500-800/month for 1-bedroom apartment in city center, utilities EUR 100-200/month (higher in winter due to heating), groceries EUR 200-300/month, coworking EUR 150-300/month, eating out EUR 10-20 per meal. Outside Riga, costs are 20-40% lower. Winters are cold (November-March) with higher heating costs.
How can I open a bank account in Latvia as a digital nomad?
Opening a bank account in Latvia can be challenging without a residence permit or work contract. Main banks include Swedbank (largest), SEB, Citadele, and Luminor. Non-residents often face additional documentation requirements and fees (EUR 100-250). Many banks require proof of income or employment. Digital alternatives like Wise, Revolut, and N26 are popular among digital nomads and work well for daily transactions. If you have a Digital Nomad Visa, bank account opening becomes much easier.
What are the tax implications for digital nomads in Latvia?
Digital Nomad Visa holders can opt for a favorable 15% flat personal income tax rate on their employment income (instead of progressive rates of 20-31%). To claim this rate, register as a taxpayer with the State Revenue Service (VID). This rate is available for 365 days from becoming a tax resident. Tax residency is triggered by staying 183+ days in any 12-month period. Non-tax residents (under 183 days) are only taxed on Latvian-source income. Latvia has double taxation treaties with many countries.
What are the requirements for the Latvia Digital Nomad Visa?
Key requirements: 1) Be employed by an OECD-registered company OR be self-employed in an OECD country, 2) Earn at least EUR 4,213/month (2.5x Latvian average salary), 3) Have been employed/self-employed for at least 6 months, 4) Have health insurance with EUR 42,600 minimum coverage, 5) Have valid passport and accommodation in Latvia. OECD countries include US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, Korea, and all EU countries. Application fee is EUR 90 (EUR 120 expedited). Processing takes approximately 4 weeks.
Will ETIAS affect my travel to Latvia?
Yes, ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will be required from 2026 for visa-exempt travelers visiting the Schengen Area. This includes citizens of US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, and other visa-exempt countries. ETIAS costs EUR 7, is valid for 3 years, and is applied for online. It's a travel authorization (not a visa) that allows stays up to 90 days in 180-day period. Note: Latvia's national ETA system (from September 2025) is separate from ETIAS and exempts OECD/NATO/EU countries.
⚠️

Important Disclaimer

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

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