Europe – Latvia Visa – Long Stay – Work Visa

1. What is the process for obtaining a work visa in Latvia?

The process for obtaining a work visa in Latvia consists of the following steps:

1. Find a job offer from a Latvian employer: To obtain a work visa, you will need to have a job offer from a Latvian company or organization.

2. Obtain a work permit: Once you have secured a job offer, your employer must apply for a work permit on your behalf from The State Employment Agency (NVA).

3. Gather necessary documents: You will need to gather certain documents for your visa application, including a valid passport, completed visa application form, and proof of health insurance.

4. Submit your visa application: Once you have all the necessary documents, you can submit your visa application to the nearest Latvian embassy or consulate.

5. Pay the visa application fee: There is an application fee that must be paid when submitting your visa application. The amount may vary depending on your country of residence.

6. Attend an interview (if required): In some cases, you may be required to attend an interview at the embassy or consulate as part of the visa application process.

7. Wait for approval: The processing time for a work visa in Latvia can vary but typically takes around 30 days.

8. Obtain your work visa and travel to Latvia: If your visa is approved, you will receive it in your passport and can then travel to Latvia to start working.

2. What are the requirements for obtaining a work visa in Latvia?

In order to obtain a work visa in Latvia, you will need to meet certain requirements such as having:

1. A valid job offer from a Latvian employer
2. A valid passport with at least six months remaining before expiration
3. Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself while in Latvia
4. Proof of health insurance coverage
5. A clean criminal record
6. A completed visa application form
7. A valid work permit issued by The State Employment Agency (NVA)

The specific requirements may vary depending on your country of residence, so it is best to check with the Latvian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information.

3. How long does it take to obtain a work visa in Latvia?

The processing time for a work visa in Latvia can vary, but typically takes around 30 days. It is recommended to apply at least 8 weeks in advance of your intended travel date to allow for any potential delays or additional document requests.

4. Can I switch jobs while on a work visa in Latvia?

In order to switch jobs while on a work visa in Latvia, you will need to first obtain a new work permit from The State Employment Agency (NVA) for your new job. Your employer will need to submit an updated work permit application and you will also need to apply for a new work visa at the Latvian embassy or consulate.

5. Is it possible to extend a work visa in Latvia?

Yes, it is possible to extend a work visa in Latvia. You can apply for an extension at the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA) no earlier than three months before your current visa expires. The extension must be applied for by your employer and you must provide proof of employment during that time period.

6. Can my family members come with me on my work visa?

Spouses and minor children may accompany you on your work visa as dependents, provided they have obtained their own dependent visas from the Latvian embassy or consulate. They will also need to provide proof of health insurance coverage and sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Latvia. Additionally, if they plan on working during their stay, they will need to obtain their own work permits.

7.Can I apply for permanent residency while on a work visa in Latvia?

No, you cannot apply for permanent residency while on a work visa in Latvia. In order to apply for permanent residence, you must have lived and worked in Latvia for at least 5 years and meet other eligibility requirements. As a temporary worker on a work visa, your stay in Latvia is limited only to the length of your contract or work permit.

2. What are the requirements for a long stay work visa in Latvia?


In order to obtain a long stay work visa in Latvia, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Employment offer: You must have a job offer from a Latvian employer.

2. Work permit: Your employer must apply for a work permit on your behalf from the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA) in Latvia.

3. Qualifications: You must have the necessary qualifications, skills, and experience required for the job.

4. Employment contract: You must have a signed and approved employment contract with your employer.

5. Health insurance: You must have valid health insurance that covers medical treatment and emergencies during your stay in Latvia.

6. Proof of financial means: You must provide proof that you have enough funds to sustain yourself during your stay in Latvia, including accommodation, food, and other expenses.

7. Clean criminal record: You must provide a clean criminal record certificate from your country of origin or from any country where you have lived/worked for more than six months in the past five years.

8. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended period of stay in Latvia.

9. Application form: You must fill out and submit a completed application form for a national visa to the Latvian embassy/consulate in your country of residence.

10. Biometric data: As part of the application process, you will be required to submit biometric data, which includes fingerprints and digital photographs.

Note: The exact requirements may vary slightly depending on your country of citizenship, so it is recommended to check with the Latvian embassy/consulate for specific requirements. Additionally, some industries or professions may require additional permits or certifications before you can start working in Latvia.

3. How long does it take to receive a work visa in Latvia?


The processing time for a work visa in Latvia can vary depending on the country from which you are applying. In general, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to receive a work visa in Latvia. It is recommended to begin the application process well in advance of your intended start date for employment.

4. Can I apply for a work visa without having a job offer in Latvia?

No, in order to apply for a work visa in Latvia, you must first have a job offer from an employer in Latvia. Your employer will need to provide you with a signed employment contract and obtain a work permit on your behalf before you can apply for a work visa.
5. How long does it take to get a work visa for Latvia?
The processing time for a work visa in Latvia varies depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant and the workload of the embassy or consulate where the application is processed. It typically takes between 2-4 weeks, but may take longer in some cases.
6. Is it possible to extend my work visa in Latvia?
Yes, it is possible to extend your work visa in Latvia as long as you continue to meet the requirements for the visa and have valid employment. You will need to submit an application for extension at least 30 days before your current visa expires.
7. Can I bring my family members with me on my work visa?
Yes, you can bring your spouse and children under the age of 18 with you on your work visa, as long as they are included in your original application and their relationship to you can be proven. They will also need to apply for their own residence permits once they arrive in Latvia.
8. Do I need travel insurance for my work visa?
It is highly recommended that you have travel insurance when applying for a work visa in Latvia. The insurance should cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation of remains. In some cases, it may be required by the consulate or immigration authorities.
9. Can I apply for permanent residency through my work visa?
Yes, after living and working in Latvia for at least five years on a temporary residence permit (which includes your work visa), you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency status.
10. What happens if I lose my job while on a work visa in Latvia?
If you lose your job while on a work visa in Latvia, you must notify the Immigration Department and apply for a new residence permit within 30 days. If you are unable to find new employment, you may be required to leave the country.

5. Is it possible to get a permanent residency through a work visa in Latvia?


Yes, it is possible to obtain permanent residency in Latvia through a work visa. After holding a work visa for at least five years and meeting certain requirements, such as proof of employment and sufficient knowledge of the Latvian language, an individual can apply for permanent residency.

6. Do I need to have a certain amount of money in my bank account to apply for a work visa in Latvia?

There are no specific financial requirements for obtaining a work visa in Latvia. However, you may need to provide proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Latvia. This can include bank statements, employment contracts, letter of sponsorship, etc. The amount of money needed may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the length of your stay. It is always best to consult with the Latvian embassy or consulate for specific details and requirements.

7. Will I need to provide medical records or proof of health insurance for my work visa application?


It depends on the specific requirements of the country where you are applying for a work visa. Some countries may require medical records or proof of health insurance as part of their application process, while others may not. It is important to research the specific requirements for your destination country and follow the instructions provided by the relevant government agency or embassy in order to successfully obtain a work visa.

8. Do I need to speak Latvian to be eligible for a work visa?


No, it is not a requirement to speak Latvian in order to be eligible for a work visa. However, having knowledge of the language may be advantageous for finding and securing employment while in Latvia.

9. Can my family members join me on my work visa in Latvia?


Yes, your spouse and children under the age of 18 can come to Latvia with you on a work visa as dependents. They will need to apply for a family reunification visa and provide documentation showing their relationship to you and proof of financial support.

10. What are the restrictions and limitations of a long stay work visa in Latvia?


There are several restrictions and limitations of a long stay work visa in Latvia:

1. Validity: The long-stay work visa is only valid for one year and can be extended up to five years depending on the employment contract.

2. Employment Limitations: The holder of a long-stay work visa is only permitted to work for the employer mentioned in the visa application. Any change in employment requires a new visa application.

3. Quota Restrictions: Latvia has an annual quota system for foreign nationals coming to work in the country, which can limit the number of visas issued in certain industries or occupations.

4. Non-Transferability: A long-stay work visa is not transferable to another person or employer once it has been issued.

5. Residence Permit Requirement: Holders of a long-stay work visa must also obtain a residence permit within three months of their arrival in Latvia.

6. Exit and Re-entry Regulations: Unlike other Schengen countries, holders of a long-stay work visa in Latvia are not permitted to travel freely within the Schengen area during the first three months of their stay.

7. Dependents’ Work Authorization: Dependents (spouse, children) of the holder of a long-stay work visa must obtain separate approval from the Latvian Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs before starting any employment in Latvia.

8. Employment Contract Validity: If an employment contract ends before the expiry date listed on the long-stay work visa, then it is necessary to leave Latvia immediately or apply for another type of residence permit.

9. Continuous Stay Requirements: Holders of a long-stay work visa are required to maintain continuous legal residence in Latvia and may face deportation if they fail to do so.

10. Ineligible Activities: The holder of a long-stay work visa is not allowed to engage in self-employed activities or do any additional jobs that are not mentioned in the work contract. Violations of this restriction could result in fines or deportation.

11. Will I be able to extend my work visa in Latvia once it expires?


Yes, it is possible to extend your work visa in Latvia once it expires. You will need to submit an application to the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA) at least two months before your current visa expires. The decision on whether to approve the extension will be based on several factors, including your job situation and any changes in your circumstances. It is important to note that extensions are not guaranteed and it is best to plan ahead and apply for an extension well in advance.

12. Are there any age limitations for obtaining a work visa in Latvia?


There is no specific age limit for obtaining a work visa in Latvia. However, applicants must be at least 18 years old to legally work in Latvia according to the country’s labor laws. Additionally, some job positions or industries may have their own age requirements that the applicant must meet.

13. Can I switch from a tourist visa to a work visa while already in Latvia?

It is possible to switch from a tourist visa to a work visa while in Latvia, but it is not recommended. It is best to apply for the appropriate visa before traveling to Latvia. Switching visas while in the country can be complicated and may require additional documentation and fees. It is important to consult with the Latvian embassy or consulate in your home country to determine the best course of action.

14. Are there any specific sectors or professions that are open to foreign workers in Latvia?


Yes, there are certain sectors and professions that are open to foreign workers in Latvia. Some of these include IT and technology, healthcare, education, engineering, tourism and hospitality, finance and banking, as well as skilled trades such as construction and transportation. The government also has a list of shortage occupations where there is a high demand for foreign workers. These include medical professionals, software developers, architects, and mechanics.

15. Will I be required to undergo background checks or provide references for my work visa application?

It depends on the specific requirements of the country you are applying for a work visa in. Some countries may require background checks and/or references as part of their visa application process, while others may not. It is important to thoroughly research the visa application requirements for your desired country before beginning the application process. The embassy or consulate of the country you are applying to can also provide information on any additional documentation that may be required for your specific situation.

16. What documents will I need to provide for my long stay work visa application?


The specific documents that you will need to provide for your long stay work visa application can vary depending on the country you are applying in and the requirements of the specific visa category. However, some common documents that may be required for a long stay work visa application include:

1. A valid passport with at least six months validity remaining
2. Completed visa application form
3. Photo identification (such as driver’s license or national ID card)
4. Passport-sized photos
5. Proof of employment or job offer from a company in your destination country
6. Letter from your employer explaining the purpose and duration of your stay
7. Financial documents showing you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay
8. Medical certificate or proof of health insurance coverage
9. Police clearance certificate or criminal record check from all countries you have lived in
10. Visa application fee payment receipt
11. Proof of accommodation arrangements (such as rental agreement or hotel booking)
12. Return flight tickets or proof of onward travel plans
13. Travel medical insurance
14 Certificate of good conduct from previous employer
15 Academic qualifications and/or professional certifications, if required by the visa category
16 Any additional documents specific to your occupation or intended activities in the destination country, such as professional licenses, permits or contracts.

It is important to carefully review the requirements for your specific long stay work visa category and location to ensure you have all necessary documents prepared before submitting your application.

17. Is there an annual quota on the number of foreign workers allowed into Latvia on work visas?


There is no annual quota on the number of foreign workers allowed into Latvia on work visas. However, their employment must be approved by the State Employment Agency and they must meet certain requirements for the specific category of work visa they are applying for.

18. How does the cost of living and salary opportunities compare between different cities and regions of Latvia?


The cost of living in Latvia varies depending on the city or region. The capital city of Riga typically has a higher cost of living compared to smaller cities and rural areas. According to Numbeo, the overall cost of living in Riga is 33% lower than in London, while the cost of living in smaller cities like Liepaja or Daugavpils is even lower.

In terms of salary opportunities, major cities such as Riga and Jurmala typically offer higher wages compared to smaller cities and rural areas. The average monthly salary in Latvia was around 1,115 euros (approximately 1,300 USD) in 2019, but this can vary greatly depending on job industry and location.

According to data from the Central Statistical Bureau of Latvia, the average monthly gross salary for full-time employees in Riga was around 1,314 euros (approximately 1,500 USD) in the second quarter of 2020. In other regions such as Kurzeme and Latgale, the average monthly gross salary ranged from 815-989 euros (approximately 940-1140 USD).

Overall, salaries may be higher in larger cities due to a higher demand for skilled workers and a larger job market. However, the lower cost of living in smaller cities and rural areas may balance out the difference in salaries. Ultimately, it is important to research specific job industries and locations within Latvia to get a better understanding of salary opportunities and cost of living.

19. Are there any government programs or initiatives that support foreign workers and their families?


Yes, there are various government programs and initiatives that support foreign workers and their families in different countries. Some examples include:

1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) in Canada: This program allows employers to hire foreign workers for temporary positions in industries that face labor shortages. It also provides support services to help foreign workers settle and integrate into Canadian society.

2. Employment Pass Scheme in Singapore: This scheme allows foreign professionals, managers, executives, and technicians (PMETs) to work in Singapore if they meet certain criteria. The Ministry of Manpower also offers a range of support programs for foreign workers and their families, such as the Work-Life Grant for employers who implement more flexible work arrangements.

3. Employment Assistance Program (EAP) in Australia: The EAP is a government-funded program that helps newly arrived skilled migrants find employment in Australia by providing personalized job search assistance, training, and professional networking opportunities.

4. Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in the Philippines: The OWWA is a government agency that supports overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) through various services such as pre-departure orientations, social and family welfare assistance, skills training programs, and repatriation assistance.

5. Support for spouses of skilled migrant workers in New Zealand: In New Zealand, the Skills Match program provides employment assistance to the spouses of skilled migrant workers holding a work visa so they can find suitable employment opportunities.

These are just some examples of programs available to support foreign workers and their families. It is important to check with the relevant government agencies or embassies for more information on specific programs and eligibility requirements.

20. What are some cultural customs and expectations that should be considered when working in Latvia?


1. Punctuality is highly valued in Latvian culture. Meetings and appointments should be scheduled at least a week in advance, and it is important to arrive on time.

2. Greetings are formal and important in Latvia. When meeting someone for the first time, it is customary to address them using their last name (Mr./Mrs./Ms.) until given permission to use their first name.

3. Dressing formally for business meetings is expected in Latvia. Men should wear suits and ties, while women should dress professionally with dresses or pant suits.

4. In Latvian culture, personal space is highly respected. It is important to maintain an arm’s length distance when speaking with someone.

5. Business communication should be direct and concise. Avoid small talk and get straight to the point.

6. Decision-making tends to be hierarchical in Latvia, meaning that final decisions are often made by top-level executives.

7. Gifts are not typically exchanged in business settings, but if invited to a Latvian’s home, it is polite to bring a small gift such as flowers or pastries.

8. It is common for business associates to socialize outside of work through meals or cultural activities. This helps build rapport and trust within business relationships.

9. Handshakes are a common form of greeting, but it is best not to initiate physical contact with someone unless they do so first.

10. Family values are highly valued in Latvian culture, so it may be helpful to show interest in an individual’s family or ask about their well-being.

11. While English is widely spoken in business settings, learning basic phrases in Latvian can show respect for the language and culture.

12. Adherence to rules and regulations is deeply ingrained within Latvian culture, so it is important for businesses to adhere strictly to laws and procedures when conducting operations in Latvia.

13 . Honesty and transparency are highly valued in business dealings. Lying or withholding information can result in damaging long-term consequences.

14. Relationships take time to develop in Latvian culture, so it is important to be patient and build trust and rapport over multiple interactions.

15. Business cards should be exchanged at the beginning of a meeting, and one should be offered to everyone present.

16. Latvians tend to be reserved and private, so it is important to avoid asking personal questions or prying into someone’s personal life.

17. Maintain proper dining etiquette when attending business meals, such as waiting for the host to begin eating before starting your own meal.

18. When giving presentations or conducting meetings, it is important to be well-prepared with facts and data to support your points.

19. Avoid discussing political or controversial topics unless specifically invited to do so by your Latvian counterparts.

20. Follow up promptly after meetings with a summary of key points discussed and any action items that were assigned.