How to Get a Work Permit and Visa for Latvia: Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Are you planning to work in Latvia—one of the fastest-growing job markets in Europe? Whether you're seeking better job opportunities or exploring life in the EU, Latvia offers excellent work opportunities for international job seekers. In this post, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process to obtain a Latvian work permit and visa.

✅ Step 1: Secure a Job Offer or Work Contract from a Latvian Employer

Before you can apply for a work permit or visa, you must first get a job offer from a registered Latvian company.

How to Get a Job Offer:

• Apply online via job portals like:

  • CV.lv

  • SS.lv

  • EURES (The European Job Mobility Portal)

• Connect with employers directly via LinkedIn or recruitment agencies in Latvia.

💡 Need help finding a job or employer in Latvia? Contact TravelDoc on:
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✅ Step 2: Employer Applies for Your Work Permit in Latvia

Once you've signed a contract, your employer must initiate the work permit process on your behalf with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA) in Latvia.

Documents the Employer Must Submit:

• Your signed employment contract

• Employer’s invitation letter

• Proof that the job cannot be filled by an EU citizen (labor market test)

• A copy of your passport

After approval, your invitation will be registered with OCMA, and you’ll be given an invitation ID/reference number, which you'll use to apply for your visa.

✅ Step 3: Apply for a Long-Stay Work Visa (Type D Visa)

With your work permit approved and invitation registered, the next step is applying for a Latvian Type D visa at the nearest Latvian Embassy or Visa Application Center.

Where to Apply:

• Latvian Embassy in your country (or the embassy handling Latvia if there's no official one)

• VFS Global (if outsourced by Latvia)

✅ Step 4: Documents Required at the Embassy

When attending your visa appointment, prepare the following documents:

1. Completed Visa Application Form

2. Valid Passport (at least 3 months beyond intended stay)

3. Passport-size photos (white background, recent)

4. Work Permit Approval / Invitation ID

5. Employment Contract

6. Proof of Accommodation in Latvia

7. Travel Insurance (covering at least €30,000)

8. Visa Fee Payment Receipt

9. Proof of Qualifications or Work Experience (if required)

10. Police Clearance Certificate (in some cases)

🔍 Important: Always double-check the exact requirements with the embassy, as they can vary depending on your country of residence.

✅ Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee

The visa fee for a Latvian long-stay (D) visa is typically:

• €100 – €120 (depending on country or embassy policies)
  Some embassies may accept local currency at the day's exchange rate.

Processing time: 10–15 working days (may vary)

✈️ Once Your Visa is Approved

You can now travel to Latvia and start working legally. Once in Latvia, you may also need to:

• Register your residence address

• Apply for a residence permit card

• Open a bank account and register for tax

💼 Need Help Getting a Job Offer in Latvia?

Finding a trustworthy employer in Europe can be tricky—but we’ve got you covered!

👉 Contact TravelDoc to assist you with:

• Job offer connections in Latvia

• Work permit procedures

• Visa documentation guidance

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🎥 YouTube: @Trip_Doc

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