Work Permit in Latvia

Latvia, with its developing economy and favourable geographical location, attracts many foreign specialists. In order to be legally employed in Latvia, foreign citizens need to obtain a work permit. In this article we will look at the main aspects related to obtaining this permit and the key requirements that need to be fulfilled.

Main categories of work permits

1. Work permit for professionals
   • It is intended for highly qualified workers whose skills and knowledge are in demand on the Latvian labour market.
   • The need for proof of qualifications and professional experience.
2. Seasonal work permit
   • Issued for temporary or seasonal work such as agriculture and tourism.
   • Limited duration, usually up to six months.
3. Authorisation for intra-corporate transfer
   • It is intended for employees of international companies who are transferred to Latvian branches to fulfil certain tasks.
   • Requires proof of intra-company transfer and employment contract.

Document requirements

In order to obtain a work permit in Latvia, the following documents must be submitted:

1. Foreign passport
   • Must be valid for at least six months after the end of the intended period of stay.
2. Completed questionnaire
   • Work permit application form, which can be downloaded from the official website of the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs of Latvia (OCMA).
3. Labour contract
   • An original and a copy of the contract with a Latvian employer, containing labour conditions, position, salary and contract term.
   • The contract must be signed by both parties.
4. Evidence of qualification
   • Diplomas, certificates and other documents confirming your professional qualifications and work experience.
   • All documents must be translated into Latvian or English and notarised.
5. Health insurance
   • A health insurance policy covering the entire period of your intended stay in Latvia.
   • The sum insured must comply with the minimum requirements established by the legislation of Latvia.
6. Criminal record certificate
   • A document from the country of permanent residence confirming the absence of a criminal record.
   • The certificate must be translated into Latvian or English and notarised.
7. Evidence of financial solvency
   • Bank statements or other documents confirming that you have sufficient funds to live in Latvia for the entire period of stay.
   • Usually, proof of funds corresponding to the minimum monthly salary in Latvia is required.

Application process

1. Collection of all necessary documents
   • Make sure all documents are collected and properly filed.
2. Submitting an application
   • The application can be submitted in person at the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs of Latvia (OCMA) or through the Latvian consulate/embassy in your country.
   • It is important to complete the work permit application form without mistakes or corrections.
3. Consideration of application
   • The application process can take from several weeks to several months depending on the workload of the migration services and the complexity of your case.
   • Additional documents or clarifications may be required if necessary.

Renewal of work permit

In order to renew a work permit, an application must be submitted several months before the end of the current permit, providing updated documents confirming the continuation of the employment relationship and the availability of funds for living expenses.

What is the Latvia work visa?

Latvia, being a member of the European Union, attracts many foreign specialists due to its economic opportunities and strategic location. In order to legally work in Latvia, foreign citizens need to obtain a work visa. In this article we will consider the main aspects related to obtaining a work visa to Latvia.

What is a work visa to Latvia?

A work visa to Latvia is a permit granting foreign nationals the right to temporary residence and legal work in Latvia. A work visa is required for all third-country nationals from countries outside the European Union or the European Economic Area who intend to work in Latvia.

Main types of work visas

1. Short-term work visa (Short-term work visa)
   • Description: Designed for temporary or seasonal work and short-term projects.
   • Validity Period: Usually up to 90 days within one year.
   • Basic requirements: Labour contract with a Latvian employer, health insurance, proof of qualification and financial solvency.
2. Long-term work visa (Long-term work visa)
   • Description: Issued for long-term employment, including permanent employment or long-term projects.
   • Validity Period: Issued for a period of up to one year, renewable.
   • Basic requirements: Formal job offer, employment contract, proof of qualifications, health insurance and financial solvency.

Main requirements for obtaining a work visa

In order to obtain a work visa to Latvia, it is necessary to fulfil a number of requirements and submit the relevant documents.

Key documents include:

1. Foreign passport
   • The passport must be valid for at least six months after the end of the intended period of stay.
2. Completed visa application form
   • A work visa application form, which can be downloaded from the official website of the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs of Latvia (OCMA) or filled out through the consulate.
3. Labour contract
   • Original and a copy of the contract with the Latvian employer, including labour conditions, position, salary and contract term.
4. Evidence of qualification
   • Diplomas, certificates and other documents confirming your professional qualifications and work experience.
   • All documents must be translated into Latvian or English and notarised.
5. Health insurance
   • A health insurance policy covering the entire period of your intended stay in Latvia.
6. Criminal record certificate
   • A document from the country of permanent residence confirming the absence of a criminal record. The certificate must be translated into Latvian or English and notarised.
7. Evidence of financial solvency
   • Bank statements or other documents confirming that you have sufficient funds to live in Latvia for the entire period of stay.

The process of applying for a work visa

1. Document preparation
   • Gather all the necessary documents, including passport, employment contract, proof of qualifications, health insurance and a criminal record certificate.
2. Submitting an application
   • You can apply for a visa in person at the Latvian consulate or embassy in your country. It is also possible to use the OCMA online platform.
3. Awaiting judgement
   • The application process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the workload of the consular services and the complexity of your case.
4. Obtaining a visa
   • Once your application is approved, you will receive a work visa, which also serves as a residence permit in Latvia.

How to apply for the Latvia work visa in 2024?

Latvia continues to be an attractive destination for foreign professionals due to its economic opportunities and strategic location in Europe. In order to legally work in Latvia, foreign nationals need to obtain a work visa. In this article we will look at the step-by-step process of applying for a work visa to Latvia in 2024, including the main requirements and recommendations.

Step 1: Getting a job offer

The first and most important step is to obtain a job offer from a Latvian employer. The employer must be registered in Latvia and ready to draw up all the necessary documents to apply for a work visa.

Step 2: Preparing the necessary documents

To apply for a work visa to Latvia in 2024, you need to prepare the following package of documents:

1. Valid passport
   • The passport must be valid for at least six months after the end of the intended period of stay.
2. Completed visa application form
   • The questionnaire can be downloaded from the official website of the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs of Latvia (OCMA) or filled in via an online platform.
3. Labour contract
   • An original and a copy of the contract with a Latvian employer, which specifies labour conditions, position, salary and contract term.
4. Evidence of qualification
   • Diplomas, certificates and other documents confirming your professional qualifications and work experience.
   • All documents must be translated into Latvian or English and notarised.
5. Health insurance
   • A health insurance policy covering the entire period of your intended stay in Latvia.
6. Criminal record certificate
   • A document from the country of permanent residence confirming the absence of a criminal record. The certificate must be translated into Latvian or English and notarised.
7. Evidence of financial solvency
   • Bank statements or other documents confirming that you have sufficient funds to live in Latvia for the entire period of stay.

Step 3: Submitting an application

1. OCMA online platform
   • This is the most convenient way to submit your documents. The online platform allows you to upload all required documents, fill in the application form and track the status of your application.
2. Submitting an application in person
   • If necessary, the application can be submitted in person at the Latvian consulate or embassy in your country. Check the requirements in advance and make an appointment.

Step 4: Waiting for the application to be processed

The application process can take from several weeks to several months, depending on the workload of the migration service and the complexity of your case. It is important to submit your documents well in advance to avoid delays and ensure that you receive your work permit on time.

Step 5: Obtaining a visa and entering Latvia

Once your application is approved, you will receive a work visa, which also serves as a residence permit. It is important to note that once you arrive in Latvia, you must register at the local OCMA office and obtain a resident card.

How can I get an Latvian work visa and permit?

Latvia, due to its strategic location and developing economy, is becoming more and more attractive for foreign specialists. In order to be legally employed in Latvia, it is necessary to obtain a work visa and a work permit. In this article we will look at the main steps and requirements for obtaining these documents.

Step 1: Getting a job offer

The first and most important step is to obtain an official job offer from a Latvian employer. The employer must be registered in Latvia and ready to provide an employment contract that complies with Latvian labour legislation.

Step 2: Preparing the necessary documents

To apply for a work visa and work permit in Latvia, you need to collect the following package of documents:

1. Valid passport
   • The passport must be valid for at least six months after the end of the intended period of stay.
2. Completed questionnaire
   • Work visa application form, which can be downloaded from the official website of the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs of Latvia (OCMA) or filled in via an online platform.
3. Labour contract
   • Original and a copy of the contract with the Latvian employer, including labour conditions, position, salary and contract term.
4. Evidence of qualification
   • Diplomas, certificates and other documents confirming your professional qualifications and work experience.
   • All documents must be translated into Latvian or English and notarised.
5. Health insurance
   • A health insurance policy covering the entire period of your intended stay in Latvia.
6. Criminal record certificate
   • A document from the country of permanent residence confirming the absence of a criminal record. The certificate must be translated into Latvian or English and notarised.
7. Evidence of financial solvency
   • Bank statements or other documents confirming that you have sufficient funds to live in Latvia for the entire period of stay.

Step 3: Applying for a visa and work permit

1. OCMA online platform
   • The most convenient way to submit your documents. The online platform allows you to upload all required documents, fill in the application form and track the status of your application.
2. Submitting an application in person
   • If necessary, the application can be submitted in person at the Latvian consulate or embassy in your country. Please check the requirements in advance and make an appointment.

Step 4: Waiting for the application to be processed

The application process can take from several weeks to several months, depending on the workload of the migration service and the complexity of your case. It is important to submit your documents well in advance to avoid delays.

Step 5: Obtaining a visa and work permit

Once your application is approved, you will receive a work visa, which also serves as a residence permit. It is important to note that once you arrive in Latvia, you must register at the local OCMA office and obtain a resident card.

What documents do I need for Latvia work visa application?

Latvia, with its strategic location and economic opportunities, attracts many foreign specialists. In order to legally work in Latvia, foreign citizens need to apply for a work visa. In this article we will look at what documents are required to apply for a work visa to Latvia.

Basic documents

1. Foreign passport
   • The passport must be valid for at least six months after the end of the intended period of stay.
   • You must provide copies of all relevant pages of your passport, including the personal data page and photo.
2. Completed visa application form
   • Work visa application form, which can be downloaded from the official website of the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs of Latvia (OCMA) or filled in via an online platform.
   • The application form must be filled out in Latvian or English, without mistakes or corrections.
3. Photos
   • Two recent passport-size photographs that meet the standards for visa documents.
4. Labour contract
   • Original and a copy of the contract with the Latvian employer, including labour conditions, position, salary and contract term.
   • The contract must be signed by both parties.
5. Evidence of qualification
   • Diplomas, certificates and other documents confirming your professional qualifications and work experience.
   • All documents must be translated into Latvian or English and notarised.
6. Health insurance
   • A health insurance policy covering the entire period of your intended stay in Latvia.
   • The sum insured must comply with the minimum requirements set forth by the legislation of Latvia.
7. Criminal record certificate
   • A document from the country of permanent residence confirming the absence of a criminal record.
   • The certificate must be translated into Latvian or English and notarised.
8. Evidence of financial solvency
   • Bank statements or other documents confirming that you have sufficient funds to live in Latvia for the entire period of stay.
   • Usually, proof of funds corresponding to the minimum monthly salary in Latvia is required.

Additional documents

Depending on the specifics of your case and the requirements of the consulate, additional documents may be required, such as letters of recommendation from previous employers, confirmation of accommodation or rental bookings in Latvia, as well as other documents confirming the purpose of your stay.

Application procedure

1. Collection of all necessary documents
   • Make sure that all documents are collected and properly filed.
2. Appointment
   • Make an appointment at a Latvian consulate or embassy if applying in person.
3. Submitting an application
   • Filing can be done through OCMA’s online platform or in person at the consulate.
   • Make sure all documents are properly completed and uploaded.
4. Pending review
   • After submitting the documents, you have to wait for the decision of the consulate or migration service.
   • The application process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

Where and when can you apply for an Latvia work visa?

Latvia, due to its strategic location and economic opportunities, attracts foreign specialists. In order to legally work in Latvia, foreign citizens need to apply for a work visa. In this article we will consider where and when you can apply for a work visa to Latvia, as well as the main stages of this process.

Where to apply for a work visa

1. Latvian consulates and embassies

You can apply for a work visa at the consular section of the Latvian embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Addresses and contact details of consular offices can be found on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia.

• Consular sections: Accept applications, conduct interviews and issue visas.
• Visa Application Centres: Some countries have accredited visa application centres that facilitate the application process and provide advice.

2. OCMA online platform

For most types of work visas, the application can be submitted through the online platform of the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs of Latvia (OCMA). This reduces the time required to submit the documents and avoids the need for a personal visit to the consulate.

When to apply for a work visa

1. Advance filing

It is recommended to apply for a work visa 2-3 months before the expected start date. This is because the application process can take from several weeks to several months, depending on the workload of the migration services and the specifics of your case.

2. Accounting for seasonal fluctuations

It is important to take into account seasonal fluctuations in the work of consulates, such as summer holidays and festive periods, when processing times may increase. Submitting your application well in advance will help avoid delays and ensure that you receive your visa on time.

Main steps of the submission process

1. Document Preparation: Gather all the necessary documents, including your passport, employment contract, proof of qualifications, health insurance and a criminal record certificate.
2. Make an appointment: Make an appointment at the consulate or visa application centre if applying in person. In case of online submission, upload all documents to the OCMA platform.
3. Submission of the application: Submission of documents can be done in person at the consulate or through the online platform. Ensure that all documents are correctly completed and uploaded.
4. Waiting for a decision: After submitting the documents, you have to wait for a decision from the consulate or migration service. During this period, additional documents or clarifications may be required.

For how long is the Latvia work visa valid?

Latvia, with its stable economy and attractive conditions for foreign specialists, offers many job opportunities. In order to be legally employed in Latvia it is necessary to obtain a work visa. In this article we will consider the validity of a work visa to Latvia, as well as the conditions for its prolongation.

Types of work visas and their validity periods

1. Short-term work visa (Short-term work visa)
   • Description: Designed for temporary or seasonal work and short-term projects.
   • Validity Period: Usually up to 90 days within one year.
   • Extension: Not renewable. You must apply for a long-term visa to continue working.
2. Long-term work visa (Long-term work visa)
   • Description: Designed for long-term employment and includes a residence permit.
   • Validity Period: Usually issued for up to one year with the possibility of renewal.
   • Extension: The visa can be extended if there is a valid employment contract and all conditions of employment are met.
3. EU Blue Card (EU Blue Card)
   • Description: It is intended for highly qualified specialists with specific skills and experience that are in demand in the Latvian labour market.
   • Validity Period: Usually issued for up to two years, renewable.
   • Renewal: Renewal is possible with a valid employment contract and proof of high qualifications.

Conditions for extending a work visa

In order to extend a work visa, a number of conditions must be met and the relevant documents must be submitted. Let us consider the main requirements for extension:

1. Existence of a labour contract
   • The labour contract with the Latvian employer must be valid at the time of application for extension.
   • The employer must confirm the continuation of the employment relationship.
2. Health insurance
   • It is necessary to have a valid health insurance covering the entire period of intended stay in Latvia.
3. Evidence of financial solvency
   • Bank statements or other documents confirming that you have sufficient funds to live in Latvia for the whole period of visa extension.
4. Compliance with labour legislation
   • The employer and the employee must comply with all terms and conditions of the labour contract and Latvian legislation, including timely payment of wages and observance of working conditions.

The process of applying for an extension

1. Document Preparation: Gather all necessary documents, including a valid employment contract, health insurance and proof of financial solvency.
2. Applying: You can apply for the extension of your work visa through the OCMA online platform or in person at the local office of the Latvian Citizenship and Migration Board.
3. Application processing: The extension application process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. It is important to apply early to avoid delays. 

Are foreigners allowed to work in Latvia?

Latvia, with its strategic location and developing economy, offers a wide range of employment opportunities for foreign specialists. The question of whether foreign citizens can work in Latvia has an unambiguous answer – yes, they can, subject to certain legal requirements and procedures.

Legislative framework

The labour activity of foreign citizens in Latvia is regulated by a number of legislative acts, the main ones being:

• Employment Law: This law sets out the rules and conditions of employment for both local and foreign nationals.
• Immigration Law: Defines the conditions for entry, stay and work of foreign citizens in Latvia.

Categories of foreign workers

1. EU/EEA and Swiss nationals
   • Have the right to free movement and work in Latvia without the need to obtain a work permit.
   • Must register with the local police at your place of residence and obtain a registration certificate.
2. Third-country nationals
   • To work in Latvia you need to obtain a work visa and a work permit.
   • The process involves several steps such as obtaining a job offer, preparing the necessary documents and applying for a visa and authorisation.

The process of obtaining a work permit

For third-country nationals, the process of obtaining a work permit includes the following steps:

1. Receiving a job offer
   • A foreigner must obtain a labour contract from a Latvian employer. The employer must confirm that he/she could not find a suitable candidate among local residents and EU/EEA citizens.
2. Applying for a work permit
   • The employer or applicant submits an application to the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs of Latvia (OCMA) via an online platform or in person at a Latvian consulate/embassy.
3. Obtaining a visa
   • After the application for a work permit has been approved, the foreigner must apply for a D-type visa for entry and residence in Latvia.

Documents required to submit an application

To successfully obtain a work permit and visa, third-country nationals must provide the following documents:

• A valid passport.
• Labour contract with a Latvian employer.
• Evidence of qualifications and experience.
• Health insurance covering the entire period of stay.
• Certificate of no criminal record.
• Evidence of financial solvency.

Rights and obligations of foreign workers

Foreign workers in Latvia have the same rights and obligations as locals, including the right to fair pay, safe working conditions and social security. Employers are obliged to comply with all labour laws and provide their employees with decent working conditions.

The types of work visas in Latvia

Latvia, with its strategic location and developing economy, attracts many foreign specialists. To be legally employed in Latvia, foreign nationals need to apply for an appropriate work visa. In this article we will consider the main types of work visas, their peculiarities and conditions for obtaining them.

Main categories of work visas

1. Short-term work visa (Short-term work visa)
   • Description: Designed for temporary or seasonal work and short-term projects.
   • Validity Period: Usually up to 90 days within one year.
   • Basic requirements: Labour contract with a Latvian employer, health insurance, proof of qualification and financial solvency.
2. Long-term work visa (Long-term work visa)
   • Description: Designed for long-term employment and includes a residence permit.
   • Validity Period: Usually issued for up to one year with the possibility of renewal.
   • Basic requirements: Formal job offer, employment contract, proof of qualifications, health insurance and financial solvency.
3. EU Blue Card (EU Blue Card)
   • Description: It is intended for highly qualified specialists with special skills and experience that are in demand in the Latvian labour market. The EU Blue Card also grants the right to work in other EU member states.
   • Validity Period: Usually issued for up to two years, renewable.
   • Basic requirements: Higher education, employment contract with competitive salary, health insurance and financial solvency.
4. Intra-corporate transferee visa (Intra-corporate transferee permit)
   • Description: It is intended for employees of international companies who are transferred to Latvian branches to fulfil certain tasks.
   • Validity period: Up to three years for managers and specialists, up to one year for trainees.
   • Basic requirements: Proof of intra-corporate transfer, employment contract, health insurance and financial solvency.

The process of obtaining a work visa

1. Receiving a job offer
   • Find a Latvian employer who is ready to offer you a job and draw up all the necessary documents.
   • The employer must confirm that they were unable to find a suitable candidate among local residents and EU/EEA nationals.
2. Document preparation
   • Gather all the necessary documents, including passport, employment contract, proof of qualifications, health insurance and a criminal record certificate.
   • All documents must be translated into Latvian or English and notarised.
3. Submitting an application
   • The application can be submitted through the OCMA online platform or in person at the Latvian consulate/embassy in your country.
   • It is important to fill in the visa application form without any mistakes or corrections.
4. Awaiting judgement
   • The application process can take from several weeks to several months depending on the workload of the migration services and the complexity of your case.
   • Additional documents or clarifications may be required if necessary.

Latvia work permit requirements

Latvia, with its strategic location and developing economy, offers attractive opportunities for foreign specialists. In order to legally work in Latvia, foreign citizens need to obtain a work permit. In this article we will look at the main requirements and procedures related to obtaining this document.

Main categories of work permits

1. Specialist Permit (Specialist Permit)
   • It is intended for highly qualified specialists whose skills and knowledge are in demand on the Latvian labour market.
   • The need for proof of qualifications and professional experience.
2. Seasonal Work Permit (Seasonal Work Permit)
   • Issued for temporary or seasonal work such as agriculture and tourism.
   • Limited duration, usually up to six months.
3. Intra-corporate Transferee Permit (Intra-corporate Transferee Permit)
   • It is intended for employees of international companies who are transferred to Latvian branches to fulfil certain tasks.
   • Requires proof of intra-company transfer and employment contract.

Basic requirements for documents

In order to obtain a work permit in Latvia, the following documents must be submitted:

1. Foreign passport
   • Must be valid for at least six months after the end of the intended period of stay.
2. Completed questionnaire
   • A work permit application form, which can be downloaded from the official website of the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs of Latvia (OCMA) or filled in via an online platform.
3. Labour contract
   • Original and a copy of the contract with the Latvian employer, including labour conditions, position, salary and contract term.
   • The contract must be signed by both parties.
4. Evidence of qualification
   • Diplomas, certificates and other documents confirming your professional qualifications and work experience.
   • All documents must be translated into Latvian or English and notarised.
5. Health insurance
   • A health insurance policy covering the entire period of your intended stay in Latvia.
   • The sum insured must comply with the minimum requirements set forth by the legislation of Latvia.
6. Criminal record certificate
   • A document from the country of permanent residence confirming the absence of a criminal record.
   • The certificate must be translated into Latvian or English and notarised.
7. Evidence of financial solvency
   • Bank statements or other documents confirming that you have sufficient funds to live in Latvia for the entire period of stay.
   • Usually, proof of funds corresponding to the minimum monthly salary in Latvia is required.

Application procedure

1. Collection of all necessary documents
   • Make sure that all documents are collected and properly filed.
2. Submitting an application
   • The application can be submitted through the OCMA online platform or in person at the Latvian consulate/embassy in your country.
   • It is important to complete the work permit application form without mistakes or corrections.
3. Consideration of application
   • The application process can take from several weeks to several months depending on the workload of the migration services and the complexity of your case.
   • Additional documents or clarifications may be required if necessary.

Renewal of work permit

In order to renew a work permit, an application must be submitted several months before the end of the current permit, providing updated documents confirming the continuation of the employment relationship and the availability of funds for living expenses.

Conclusion

Obtaining a work permit in Latvia requires careful preparation and compliance with all legal requirements. Correct paperwork and timely submission of the application significantly increase the chances of successfully obtaining a permit and legal employment in Latvia.