Residence Permit and Citizenship in Latvia

A residence permit is required for those planning to stay in Latvia for more than 90 days over 6 months from the date of entry; for those engaged in commercial activities; and for those who are self-employed in Latvia.

First, you must apply for your residence permit at your appropriate consular institution outside of Latvia. Permits are provided for a period of 1 to 5 years, depending on the circumstances outlined in your application. Permits also provide the possibility for extension when and if necessary, and you may apply to obtain a permanent residence permit after 5 years.

A residence permit provides the right to enter Latvia without a visa, to live and work within the territory of Latvia, and to use the medical and other services guaranteed by the state.

Residence permits in Latvia are provided to those who meet one of the following criteria:

1. Work (either employment or self-employment);
2. Rendering or using services;
3. Studies;
4. Family reunion;
5. For EU citizens, a stable monthly income of 93,54 Ls is required.

EU Permanent Resident Status

Possession of a residence permit in Latvia does not automatically provide the right to enter other EU countries. To gain this privilege, you must first obtain the status of "EU Permanent Resident". To do so, you must provide proof of a stable income, sufficient for you and your family’s maintenance. Further, you must have resided in an EU country for a minimum of 5 years, with annual leaves totalling less than 10 months. The "EU Permanent Resident" status is regulated by special directives, which Latvia must introduce into National Legislation before 23 January, 2006.

Residence Permit Procedures

A simplified residence permit application procedure is available for the citizens of EU and EEA countries. This procedure requires the following:

1. Life and health insurance policy;
2. A blank, officially-formatted residence permit request form;
3. A photograph; and
4. Documentation proving your basis for application (This may be an employment or education contract, a copy of a marriage certificate, etc).

For citizens of non EU/EEA countries that DO NOT require a visa to enter Latvia there are additional requirements:

1. Documentation confirming your place of residence in Latvia;
2. A doctor’s statement that you have been tested for tuberculosis, or lung x-ray results; and
3. Documentation confirming payment of the state fee; and
4. Two photographs.

For citizens of countries that DO require a visa to enter Latvia, including Russia and CIS countries, there are the additional requirements:

1. A punishability statement issued by a competent institution of the citizenship or host country for any ex-patriot over 14 years old; and
2. Documentation confirming the necessary subsistence.

For more information, visit the State Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs Website at http://www.pmlp.gov.lv/