Introduction to Work Permits in Latvia

• Document Submission: Upload your work permit along with any supporting documents for verification.
• Authenticity Check: We use official databases and collaborate with government bodies to verify the authenticity of your work permit.
• Detailed Results: Within 3–5 business days, you will receive a comprehensive report that confirms the validity of your permit or highlights any discrepancies.

Foreign nationals require a work permit to work in Latvia under the following conditions:

• Short-term or irregular residence: Employment lasting no more than 90 days within six months.
• Regular residence: Employment exceeding 90 days within six months.

• Students
• Consultants
• Sole founders of companies
• Company directors
• IT specialists
• Drivers engaged in international freight transport

To legally work in Latvia, nationals from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) must obtain both a work permit and a residence permit. These permits are issued as part of the Long-Stay Visa application process.

In addition to work permits, Latvia offers several other types of visas and permits that may be relevant to foreign nationals:

• Permanent Residence Permit: After residing in Latvia for at least five years with a Temporary Residence Permit, you can apply for a Permanent Residence Permit, allowing you to live and work in Latvia indefinitely.
• Latvia EU Blue Card: A long-term residence permit designed for highly skilled workers. It permits employment with a Latvian company, and after five years, holders can apply for permanent residency.
• Golden Visa: A renewable 5-year residence permit available for an investment of €89,900, covering all associated costs.
• Business Visa: For individuals conducting business activities in Latvia.
• Latvia Student Visa: A long-stay visa issued initially for 90 days. For longer study programs, students must also apply for a residence permit.

Each permit type has specific requirements, making it essential to understand which one applies to your circumstances before applying.

To apply for a work permit in Latvia, follow these steps:

• Prepare Required Documents

− Complete the application for a residence permit and gather the following:

− A valid passport

− Proof of accommodation in Latvia (e.g., rental agreement or hotel reservations)

− An official letter from your employer in Latvia

− Your diploma and CV

− A passport-sized photo taken within the last 6 months

− Degree certificates and transcripts covering at least 3 academic years

− Medical insurance is valid for the entire visa duration

− A Certificate of No Criminal Record

− Proof of payment for the Consular Fee (required for the work visa invitation)

− Evidence of your intended residence in Latvia

− Payment receipt for the visa application fee

• Legalize Documents: Ensure all required documents are properly legalized or apostilled, as necessary.

• Arrange an Interview: Schedule and attend an interview at the Latvian embassy or consulate in your country.

• Submit Your Application: Submit the completed application form along with all supporting documents and pay the applicable fee.

• Wait for a Decision: The Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA) will process your application and notify you of their decision.

• Apply for a D Visa: Once your work permit is approved, apply for a D Visa and pay the corresponding visa fee.

• Obtain Your Residence Permit: Upon arriving in Latvia, collect your residence permit.

The timeline for obtaining a work permit in Latvia typically ranges from 30 to 45 days after submitting the required application and documents. However, processing times may vary based on factors such as the applicant nationality, the completeness of the application, and the workload of the visa processing authorities. In some cases, the process may take longer.

• Consular Fee for Work Visa Invitation: €30–€40
• Visa Application Fee: €60–€120 (depending on the type of visa and nationality)
• Medical Insurance: €50–€200 (varies by coverage duration and provider)
• Document Legalization Fees: €30–€100 per document (depending on the issuing country and consular fees)
• Accommodation Proof Costs: Varies based on rental agreements, hotel bookings, or invitation letters.

Additional fees may apply for translations or notarizations of documents, depending on individual circumstances.

Verifying a Latvia work permit is crucial to ensure the applicant meets all the requirements for working legally in the country.

To avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes, be aware of the following scams:

Fake Job Offers: Scammers create fake job advertisements, often promising high salaries and benefits, to lure applicants into paying upfront fees.

Unauthorized Agents: Fraudulent agents or intermediaries charge excessive fees for "fast-tracking" applications or creating fake documentation.

Payment for Invitations: Legitimate Latvian employers do not require payment from the applicant for issuing a work visa invitation.

Nonexistent Companies: Some scammers pose as employers from fake or unregistered companies to extract money or personal information.

Always verify the legitimacy of the employer and the authenticity of the job offer through the Latvian State Employment Agency or other official channels.