Latvia Residence Permit

A residence permit in Latvia is the document of a foreigner for staying in Latvia for a certain period or permanently. This status strongly facilitates not only daily life but also opens up job, study, and business opportunities for foreigners in Latvia. In fact, that provides such opportunities for working, studying, or doing business in this country.

What is a Residence Permit in Latvia?

It is an official permit issued by the government, allowing foreigners temporary or permanent residence in the Republic of Latvia. The document is issued in an identity card format, an eID-card. Such documents would be required if one intends to stay in the country for a period beyond 90 days within six months.

Requirement for a Residence Permit in Latvia

A residence permit shall be obtained by foreigners who are real estate owners, job seekers, students, as well as family members of the above-mentioned aliens who wish to stay in the Republic of Latvia for a period exceeding three months within any half-year. The following purposes are the main ones for obtaining a residence permit:

• Employment in Latvia
• Educational programs
• Family reunification
• Property and other capital investments

Types of residence permits

1. Temporary residence permit
   • Is issued for six months to five years, depending on the grounds for stay.
   • May be extended if all conditions are met.
2. Permanent Residence Permit
   • After five continuous years of residence in Latvia, it is issued.
   • Applicant should prove his/her economic stability and Latvian language skill at A2 level.

How Residence Permit is different from EU Permanent Residence Permit

Long-term EU residence permit: for those who have had Latvia or any other EU country as their residence for at least five consecutive years and who conform to the criteria of the EU Directive. This status gives more rights and freedoms within the EU.

A residence permit in Latvia usually does not include additional rights at the EU level and is limited to rights within Latvia, except for the possibility to move and stay in other Schengen countries for a short period.

The process of applying for a Residence Permit

• For foreigners in Latvia: It is possible to submit documents by e-mail with a secure electronic signature or send them by post.
• For foreigners outside Latvia: It is necessary to apply to the Latvian embassy abroad to submit an application and relevant documents.

The residence permit in Latvia is a document that regulates the status of foreign citizens in the country. There are two crucial types of residence permits: temporary and permanent ones. It means one will receive this status if he intends to stay in the Republic of Latvia for more than 90 days during any six-month period.

Temporary residence permit

A residence permit is issued for a foreigner who arrives in Latvia for different purposes such as work, study, family reunification, or in other events when a long-term stay is needed.

Criteria for Receipt:

Purposes: Long-term stay purpose should be proved, for example, employment, studies, marriage with a Latvian citizen, etc.

Financial means: An applicant should prove the ability to financially provide for his or her living in Latvia for the whole period of stay.

Health insurance: Within cases where a foreigner has been granted a residence permit, he/she is obliged to have valid health insurance that covers the entire period of validity of the residence permit.

Housing: Proof of housing is required in Latvia.

Application process:

An application for a temporary residence permit can be made via the Embassy of Latvia at the country of residence or directly to the Citizenship and Migration Board in Latvia.

Permanent residence permit

Permanent residence will enable foreigners to reside in Latvia without any limitation, and thus it is more stable, with more rights, compared to a temporary residence permit.

Eligibility

Continuous residence means the applicant is entitled to have legally resided in Latvia for five successive years on grounds of a temporary residence permit.

Knowledge of Latvian language: It shall be necessary to prove the knowledge of the Latvian language at the level laid down by the legislation.

Financial independence and no criminal record.

Application process:

The application for a permanent residence permit is submitted after completion of all the necessary conditions of stay under the temporary residence permit. The applications will be examined by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs.

Obtaining a residence permit in Latvia allows foreign citizens to expand possibilities of further long-term development and stability of their stay in the country. Careful preparation of all documents needed and following the procedures with due attention will allow successful obtaining of the aspired status.

How does the residence permit obtaining process look in Latvia?

The application for a residence permit in the Republic of Latvia is divided, depending on the applicant’s status of either being inside or outside the country. To ensure ease and convenience for all foreign nationals in this regard, the following procedures for application have been outlined below.

For foreigners staying in Latvia

1. Filing electronically:
   • Foreign citizens can send the required documents by e-mail using a secure electronic signature. This is in view of ensuring data transmission safety of personal data and accelerating the procedure for processing applications.
2. Filing by post:
   • The application and other documents may also be sent by registered or ordinary post, including indicating contact information in the attachments, email address, telephone number to enable rapid contact and notification of the status of the application.

For foreigners residing outside Latvia

1. Filing of documents at the embassy:
   • Foreigners residing outside Latvia shall submit documents through the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia in the state of their residence, presenting documents personally or sending them by post if the possibility to perform postal filing is offered by the embassy.
2. Electronic filing:
   • Foreign applicants, like domestic applicants, are allowed to make use of a secure electronic signature when emailing documents in support. This avenue of document submission is available for the convenience of applicants who may prefer the use of digital technology and seek to expedite the process as much as possible.

General tips when filing documents

• Verification: Ensure that the documents are complete before filing. Delays often happen because of incomplete or incorrect applications.
• Follow-up: Regularly check your email and mailbox for notifications from the migration service or embassy. If some complementary information is needed, provide it as soon as possible.
• Seek professional advice: In case you have any doubts or questions about the process or requirements, seek professional help from immigration attorneys or experts.

Obtaining a residence permit in Latvia is the most significant step that foreigners should undertake if they plan to stay in this Baltic country for a long period. Observance of established procedures and requirements considerably simplifies and speeds up the process. The choice of the best method of submitting documents is left to your discretion and depends on your location and personal preference.

Types of Latvian temporary residence permits

Latvia has several types of residence permits: temporary ones, which are provided for different categories of foreigners. A residence permit is a document permitting a foreigner to stay and work in the territory of Latvia for a certain period, normally up to five years. This paper becomes remarkably significant in the case when one comes to Latvia either for work, study, family unification, or investment.

Main types of residence permits

The choice depends entirely on the purpose of the stay of a foreigner in Latvia. In this respect, detailed preparation of documents and careful consideration of all requirements are necessary for a successful application of a suitable type of temporary residence permit in Latvia. Holding a temporary residence permit in Latvia enables you to integrate into Latvian society and opens up many opportunities both for personal and professional development.

Duration of the Latvian Temporary Residence Permit

A temporary residence permit in Latvia allows a foreigner to stay in Latvia, work, and study for a limited period. This document is of great importance in regulating migration flows and socio-economic stability. For that reason, one should definitely know the duration of such a temporary residence permit and all the conditions and requirements to be able to plan the long-term stay in Latvia.

Duration of Temporary Residence Permit

The duration of a temporary residence permit in Latvia may vary in dependence on the ground on which it was issued:

Factors Affecting Duration

The validity of a temporary residence permit may be altered in the following cases, among others:

Changes in legislation: The laws on immigration might change; thus, it would affect the length of time one holds the residence permit.

Economic and social conditions: Depending on the economic situation and/or in cases of external crisis situations, either restrictive measures or, on the contrary, the expansion of residence permit policies can be established.

The applicant’s personal circumstances: Such as a change in family status, loss of employment, or completion of one’s course of study.

Applicant Strategies for Maximizing Use of Residence Permit Period

Unless there is a time limit placed on the residence permit, foreign nationals intending to maximize the use of the issued temporary residence permit period are advised to:

Careful planning: Make the application for an extension sufficiently in advance before the expiry of the current residence permit.

Compliance with requirements: The applicant has continuously fulfilled all the conditions and requirements for obtaining a residence permit.

Keeping up-to-date: Consult with lawyers who are migration lawyers on a regular basis to get updates on current legislation and practices.

Having a temporary residence permit in Latvia opens very special possibilities for career development, education, and business to foreigners. Thus, the conditions and limitations related to the duration of residence allow the applicants to plan further stay and activities effectively in the country, ensuring legality and stability. Below, you will find some tips on how to get a residence permit in Latvia

 How to apply for a residence permit for Latvia?

Obtaining a residence permit opens the opportunity for foreigners to work, study, do business, or simply stay in Latvia for a longer period. One cannot overestimate the importance of this process for business professionals wanting to widen their activities or take advantage of the investment climate of Latvia. The document gives one the right not only to legally stay in Latvia but also to travel within the Schengen zone and provides huge strategic advantages.

Obtaining a residence permit in Latvia is diligent preparation and requires knowledge in local laws and procedures. To businesspeople, this may be a step into many opportunities opening in the European economic space. If you follow these steps carefully, it will help you to obtain the required status with success.

Requirements for Latvian temporary residence permit

A temporary residence permit in Latvia may be granted to a foreigner and provides him or her with the right to legally stay and work in Latvia for a specified period. This status is highly relevant for business people who are interested in expanding their current business activities or entering a new market in Latvia.

General requirements

To be eligible for a temporary residence permit in Latvia, an applicant should meet the following minimum criteria:

Legal basis for residence: For service, studies, family unification, business activity, or investment.

Travel document: It should be valid at least three months beyond the expiry date of the residence permit.

Health insurance: It should be provided for the full period of stay intended in Latvia.

Financial independence: An individual should have sufficient means to support his or her living and that of his or her family in Latvia.

Certificate of criminal record: for the country of actual residence and all countries where the candidate has resided for more than 12 months during the last five years.

Category-Specific Requirements

1. Working Professionals:
   • Labor contract with a Latvian employer.
   • Qualification and work experience documents.
2. Students:
   • Confirmation of enrollment in a licensed institution.
   • Proof of funds covering tuition and accommodation.
3. Investors and entrepreneurs:
   • Proof of investment in the Latvian economy, e.g. through the purchase of real estate or equity investments in Latvian companies.
   • Business Plan, if applicable.
4. Family members:
   • Documents proving family ties with a person already residing in Latvia or having a residence permit.

Application process

Application for a temporary residence permit is submitted personally or via legal representative to the Migration Board in Latvia or to a Latvian consulate abroad. The application procedure involves submitting all above documents, paying a state fee, and possibly an interview.

Terms and validity of residence permit

A residence permit, in general, is granted temporarily for a period of up to five years but may be dependent on the category and specific situations being applied for. Application for renewal always has to be made before the currently granted period of validity has expired.

Obtaining a temporary residence permit in Latvia needs some serious preparation and understanding of the local laws and procedures. Successful fulfillment of all requirements really simplifies the process of obtaining and gives a legal basis for further stay and activities in the country.

How to get permanent residence in Latvia?

A permanent residence permit in Latvia opens a whole list of advantages to foreign nationals, such as simplified access to the markets of the European Union, a possibility of long-term planning of life and work without the need to regularly renew the status.

Benefits of a permanent residence permit

A permanent residence permit in Latvia opens the following opportunities to business professionals:

• Long-term residence in the EU is ensured, and regular renewal of a residence permit is not required.
• Access to the labour markets and services is simplified in all European Union countries.
• Latvian political life can be widely involved in at the local government level.

To get a permanent residence permit in Latvia, one needs to be thoroughly prepared for document submission and understand the requirements of local law.

Where to Apply for Permanent Residence in Latvia?

A permanent residence permit taken in Latvia is a more strategic step towards how business people conduct business with ease, developing a stronghold in Europe and exploring the single market of the European Union. Among the other issues that foreign nationals face, it always remains an issue to choose a place where to apply.

The main places to apply

Application key facts

1. Pre-booking
   • Anyway, it is advisable to be pre-booked in advance the date and time at a place of application you prefer to avoid waiting lines and expedite the process.
2. Document collecting and preparation
   • Preparation of complete documents before going to the office or embassy is the key to a successful application. Failure in providing complete documents will delay it or sometimes get it rejected.
3. Consultation with professionals
   • In order to minimize the risks of refusal and accelerate the process, contacting an immigration lawyer/consultant is a good option as he shall assist you in filling out the documents properly and submitting your application.

A permanent residence permit application shall be submitted in Latvia only after very deliberate consideration and choosing of an appropriate place of filing. For convenience, an application can be submitted with the Migration Board in Latvia at Latvian embassies abroad and electronically, considering divided groups of candidates.

Documents necessary to file the application for permanent residence in Latvia

Obtaining a permanent residence permit in Latvia is an important step for foreign citizens who wish to secure a long-term stay and expand their interests in Europe. Proper preparation of the documents is the most vital factor in a successful application.

Basic documents for the application

Successfully obtaining a permanent residence permit in Latvia requires careful preparation and compliance with all document requirements.

The process of re-applying for a residence permit in Latvia

Foreigners who have already had a residence permit in the Republic of Latvia and want to extend it should submit an application within the set terms – during the validity of the previous residence permit or within 90 days after its expiry. The term of processing an application is 30 days, after which it takes 10 working days to issue a residence permit.

How documents are to be submitted

Foreigners in Latvia can submit the application as follows:

1. Electronic: The documents are sent via email, signed with a secure electronic signature.
2. By post: The documents are mailed by post either by post or by registered letter. The application has to be accompanied by the applicant’s e-mail address and telephone number for contact.

For foreigners who stay outside of Latvia, the procedure is essentially the same:

1. Electronic: The documents are sent by email, with an electronic signature that is secure enough.
2. By post from abroad: The papers are posted by ordinary letter with contact details for communication.

Particular conditions with respect to specific categories of aliens

Applicants who fall into the category of such conditions shall be exempt from the obligation to file an invitation which has been favourably considered by the Office. This shall include:

• Individual Entrepreneurs.
• The single officers of traders registered on the Trade Register.
• Self-employed persons.
• Representatives of foreign merchants.
• Aliens who have annulled a marriage or are widowers, having a minor Latvian or foreign citizen child in their custody.
• A foreigner who on 17 June 1940 was citizens of the Republic of Latvia.
• Individuals who intend to register a permit for permanent residence.

Supportive documents

For re-applying for residence permit following must be provided:

• Copy of valid travel document.
• Free application form, explanation of the motive for application and period during which the permit is requested for residence.
• Supporting document of the proof that applicant possesses sufficient means of subsistence.
• Supporting document proving existence of a place of residence.
• Payment document confirming the payment of the state duty.

Additional requirements for certain categories

Depending on the purpose of stay and previous conditions of residence, additional documents may be required to prove the necessity of stay and the applicant’s activity in the economic life of Latvia, including proof of payment of taxes and contributions. Re-applying for a residence permit in Latvia requires careful preparation of documents and observance of deadlines. It is important to follow the instructions precisely and take into account all requirements to avoid delays or refusal to renew the status.

Latvia residence permit by investment

Latvia, as a country of the European Union, offers the possibility for foreign investors to obtain a residence permit through various investment programmes. Such a way is not only a way of legal stay of a foreigner in the country but also opens access to EU markets and improves the conditions for doing business and living in Latvia.

Investment programmes for obtaining of residence permit

Procedure for Obtaining a Residence Permit by Means of Investment

Choice of Investment Programme: An investor has to give serious thought to his or her financial aims and decide on the most appropriate investment programme.

Checking and Preparing Documents: All documents, including passport, financial documents, property purchase agreements or investment contracts must be translated into Latvian and notarised.

Submitting an application: The application for a residence permit is submitted to the Latvian Migration Board or through a Latvian consulate abroad. The application process may include an interview and additional checks.

Awaiting judgement: The application process usually takes one to three months. In some cases, the period may be extended depending on the complexity of the case.

Obtaining a residence permit: Once the application is approved, the investor receives a temporary residence permit, which is usually issued for five years. This residence permit can be extended or converted into a permanent residence permit if certain conditions are met.

Benefits of obtaining a residence permit by means of investment

• Free travel in the Schengen area: A residence permit opened in Latvia provides the possibility to travel to Schengen countries without a visa.
• Conducive business climate: Latvia’s competitive tax conditions and access to markets contribute to favorable business conditions, making this country attractive for business development.
• High quality of life: Latvia provides a high level of living: good education and medical treatment, appropriate infrastructure.
• Possibility to obtain citizenship: Application for Latvian citizenship can be submitted after ten years of residence in Latvia.

Applying for a residence permit through investment in Latvia is a very important strategic step for every businessperson and investor who would like to take advantages from Latvia and the European Union. Therefore, this procedure should be prepared in advance, selecting the proper investment program and assuring the fulfillment of necessary requirements. In such a case, making investments in Latvia will open the door to long-term success and prosperity in Europe.

Latvian Residency by Investment Requirements

Latvia offers a very special opportunity for foreign investors to acquire residency by making an investment, which opens wide the door for doing business in Europe and provides many privileges of the European Union.

Basic Requirements for Getting Residency through Investment

Application process

1. Document preparation
   • Documents which prove identity, availability of funds, investment contracts, and documents confirming legality of investment, etc.
   • All documents should be translated into Latvian and notarized.
2. Filing an application
   • The application for a residence permit is filed with the Migration Board of Latvia or, through a Latvian consulate abroad. A personal interview may be required.
3. Judgment pending
   • It usually takes one to three months to process an application. In some cases, the process may be extended for additional checks.
4. Obtaining a residence permit
   • Upon approval of the application, the investor receives a temporary residence permit, which can be extended or converted into a permanent residence permit if all conditions are met.

Additional terms and conditions and responsibilities

Maintaining the investment: The investor must maintain the investment throughout the duration of the residence permit. Real estate, for example, cannot be sold during the first five years without losing the right to renew the residence permit.

Compliance with legislation: The investor must comply with all requirements of Latvian legislation, including timely payment of taxes and fees.

Advantages of residency through investment

• Access to the Schengen area: A residence permit in Latvia allows you to travel freely within the Schengen area.
• Simplified access to EU markets: Latvian residency simplifies doing business in the European Union.
• High quality of life: Latvia offers a stable economy, a favourable investment climate and high standards of living.

Obtaining residency in Latvia through investment is a strategic step for business professionals and investors seeking to establish themselves in Europe and take advantage of all the benefits offered by the European Union. Thorough preparation and fulfilment of all requirements guarantee successful obtaining of residence permit and long-term benefits from investments in Latvia.

How long does it take to process a Latvia residence permit?

In case a foreign national intends to obtain a residence permit in Latvia, an important factor for consideration should include the period for processing this document. It’s of prime importance to strategic business planning, relocation organisation, and time management.

General processing times

1. Standard deadlines
   • The time for processing the application by the citizenship and migration department in Latvia regarding a temporary residence permit is up to 30-90 days. This is the usual term taken for processing most applications that will be filed in Latvia and via consulates abroad.
   • In case an applicant files the application for a permanent residence permit, the processing would take approximately 60 to 120 days but only in some cases when additional verification of documents or the applicant is necessary.
2. Accelerated processing
   • For an extra charge, the application can be processed faster. Depending on the residence permit type and individual circumstances, accelerated procedure can shorten the period of up to 10 working days. This option is particularly appealing to business professionals who need urgently to start their work or organize business events in Latvia.

Factors affecting processing time

1. Completeness and correctness of documents
   • An incomplete or inadequately executed set of documents can postpone the processing considerably. The timely submission of all the required documents in the light of the requirements of Latvian legislation is of much importance for the meeting of deadlines.
2. Type of residence permit
   • Processing time depends on the purpose of stay. Applications for work visas or residence by investment take longer as they might require additional checks, for example.
3. Seasonality
   • During peak periods, such as the summer months or the end of the year, when the number of applications increases significantly, processing may slow down.
4. Individual circumstances of the applicant
   • In cases where additional verification is required (e.g., verification of sources of income or proof of qualifications), processing time may be extended.

Recommendations to minimise delays

Prepare for the process in advance: Start gathering and reviewing documents as early as possible to make sure all requirements are met.

Utilise the services of professionals: Immigration lawyers and counsellors can help with document preparation, which greatly reduces the risk of delays due to errors or misunderstandings.

Consider seasonality: Plan your application during less busy periods to avoid long wait times.

Check the status of the application regularly: Keep in contact with the migration authorities or consulate to keep informed about the status of your application and to respond promptly to possible requests for additional documents.

Preparing the full package of documents and resorting to the procedure of expedited consideration will shorten the time needed for obtaining the residence permit by two or even three times and secure a quick and legal solution of immediate entry into the Latvian market. It is worth noting that thorough attention to all requirements and competent treatment of an application can increase the chances of its success many times in the shortest period.

When can I apply for Latvia’s citizenship after permanent residency?

Obtaining Latvian citizenship is an important step for foreign nationals who seek to strengthen their position in the European Union and gain access to all the privileges of EU citizenship. For business professionals who plan on a long-term stay with business development in Latvia, the transition from permanent resident status to citizenship can open up new opportunities. The following article discusses terms and conditions necessary to apply for Latvian citizenship after obtaining a permanent residence permit.

General conditions for granting Latvian citizenship

1. Minimum length of stay
   • After obtaining a permanent residence permit in Latvia, foreign nationals must have lived in the country for at least five years before they can apply for citizenship. These five years are counted from the date of obtaining the permanent residence permit, and the applicant must prove that he or she has lived in Latvia for the entire period.
2. Knowledge of Latvian language
   • One of the key requirements for obtaining Latvian citizenship is knowledge of the Latvian language. Candidates must pass a language proficiency test, which includes a comprehension test, conversational skills, and knowledge of Latvian history, Constitution and national anthem.
3. Confirmation of integration into Latvian society
   • The applicant must demonstrate his/her integration into Latvian society, including knowledge of and compliance with Latvian laws, as well as participation in the social and economic life of the country.
4. No criminal record
   • In order to obtain Latvian citizenship, the applicant must have a clean legal history. A certificate of no criminal record from the country of origin and countries where the applicant has previously resided is a mandatory document.
5. Financial stability
   • The applicant must prove his/her financial independence and stability by demonstrating that he/she has sufficient funds to live in Latvia.

The procedure for Applying Citizenship

1. Document preparation
   • To apply for citizenship it is necessary to prepare a full package of documents, including proof of permanent residence, Latvian language test results, a certificate of criminal record and documents confirming financial stability.
2. Submitting an application
   • The application for citizenship is submitted to the Migration Board of Latvia. It is important to submit the documents in accordance with the established requirements to avoid delays or refusals.
3. Review process
   • Once an application is submitted, the review process can take up to two years. This is due to the thorough verification of all submitted documents, as well as the need to undergo various interviews and tests.
4. Taking the oath of office
   • After the application is approved, the candidate must swear an oath of allegiance to Latvia. This is a mandatory step before citizenship is granted.

Advantages of Latvian citizenship

• Access to EU markets:  Latvian citizenship grants the right of free movement, work and residence in any of the European Union countries.
• The right to political participation: Latvian citizens have the right to participate in elections and referendums, as well as to hold public office.
• Social guarantees and rights: Latvian citizenship opens access to all social guarantees and rights provided for EU citizens, including health care, education and social security.

The path to Latvian citizenship after obtaining a permanent residence permit requires fulfilment of a number of conditions and time limits, however, for business professionals and investors, this step can be a key one in their strategy for long-term presence in Europe. Thorough preparation, adherence to all requirements, and careful attention to the application process significantly enhance the chances of success. Obtaining Latvian citizenship opens wide prospects for personal and professional growth in the European Union.

How can Regulated United Europe help with Latvia residence permit?

Getting a residence permit (residence permit) in Latvia opens up vast opportunities for foreign entrepreneurs to develop their business activity within the European Union. Regulated United Europe Law Firm, with extensive experience in immigration law and business consulting, will offer comprehensive services of obtaining a residence permit by means of business activities.

Why Latvia is a good choice for entrepreneurial activity? Latvia is the dynamically developing country with a favorable business climate offering access to the markets of the European Union, stable tax legislation, and developed infrastructure. For foreign entrepreneurs, Latvia represents a very luring place to set up and conduct a business. At the same time, getting a residence permit on this basis provides additional advantages such as free movement within Schengen countries and simplified access to EU markets.

How can Regulated United Europe help you?

Benefits of dealing with Regulated United Europe

• Experience and professionalism: Our firm consists of qualified lawyers and business consultants with extended experience in the sphere of immigration law and business activities in Latvia.
• Personal approach: We listen to every client’s needs carefully and create personalized solutions in order for your aims and goals to be achieved fully and effectively.
• Full support: We provide the whole range of services, starting from the first consultation and ending with long-term support even after getting a residence permit—in order to make this procedure as comfortable and quick for our clients as possible.

Regulated United Europe is your reliable assistant in the process of receiving a residence permit in Latvia on the basis of entrepreneurial activity. Our company offers all-around legal support regarding establishment of new companies, acquisition of ready businesses, and assistance in successful completion of the procedure of obtaining residence permit. In cooperation with us, you can start developing your business in Latvia and Europe, while we take care of all the legal and administrative issues.