Navigating Latvia Work Visas and Immigration for Global Expansion

When expanding your business operations to Latvia, ensuring proper work authorization for your employees is crucial for legal compliance and smooth operations. Understanding Latvia's visa framework helps international companies establish their workforce effectively.

Types of Latvia Work Visas

Latvia offers several visa categories for foreign professionals:

Business or Short-Term Vocational Training Visa
Long-Term Work Visa

Business or Short-Term Vocational Training Visa

This visa category facilitates business travel and short-term professional development activities, permitting stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period in Schengen countries.

Required documentation includes:

Valid passport with minimum 90-day validity beyond intended stay
Completed visa application form with recent passport-sized photograph
Comprehensive travel health insurance covering Schengen area (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Proof of financial means through recent bank statements
Company business license and employer confirmation letter
Approved invitation from Latvian Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA)
Additional identity documents for Chinese nationals

Long-Term Work Visa

For employment exceeding 90 days but not surpassing 365 days, professionals require a long-term work visa.

Essential documentation comprises:

Valid passport meeting specific requirements
Properly completed visa application with recent photograph
OCMA-approved invitation for stays under 365 days
Accommodation confirmation (hotel booking or rental agreement)
Flight reservation details
Enhanced health insurance coverage (minimum €42,600)
Comprehensive proof of financial sustainability
Employment contract or formal job offer

Visa Validity Periods

The business visa permits maximum 90-day stays within 180 days, while long-term work visas accommodate stays between 90 days and one year, supporting extended business assignments and project work.

Visa Application Costs

Business visa fees stand at €90 (approximately ¥710), with reduced rates for children and specific nationalities. Long-term work visas cost €60 (approximately ¥470) during 2024's fourth quarter, plus standard service charges. Exchange rates determine final amounts in local currencies.

Processing Timelines and Strategic Considerations

Visa processing typically requires several weeks, though seasonal variations may occur. Companies like SailGlobal can streamline this process through expert guidance and established relationships with Latvian authorities, reducing administrative burdens for international HR teams.

Successful visa applications often benefit from early planning, complete documentation, and understanding local compliance requirements. Many multinational corporations utilize specialized immigration services to navigate complex scenarios, such as group transfers or specialized skill deployments.

Latvia Work Visa Guide 2024: Requirements, Costs & Processing