Latvia visa application, appointment & everything you need to know

Your Baltic adventure starts here—and the Schengen Latvia visa is your gateway to discovering the charm of Northern Europe. Getting a visa can seem confusing, but don’t worry — we will explain everything you need to know to make your trip to Latvia simple and trouble-free. From who needs a visa, how to apply, to helpful tips to avoid problems, this Schengen visa guide will help you travel to Latvia and other Schengen countries without any hassle.

Why visit Latvia?

Latvia is a hidden gem in the heart of the Baltics—quietly stunning and rich in cultural depth:

• Historic wonders: Discover Riga’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, Art Nouveau architecture, and Soviet-era relics.

• Natural beauty: Hike through ancient forests, kayak along rivers, and explore the sandy shores of the Baltic Sea.

• Peaceful & uncrowded: Unlike many Schengen destinations, Latvia offers tranquility without the crowds.

• Delicious food: Enjoy traditional Latvian dishes like grey peas with bacon, rye bread, and smoked fish.

Schengen Latvia visa explained

A Latvia Schengen visa (Type C) lets you stay in Latvia and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. You should apply through Latvia if:

• Latvia is your main destination (you spend the most days here), or

• Latvia is your first point of entry into the Schengen Area.

First—do you need a visa?

Citizens of many countries (like the U.S., Canada, UK, Australia) can enter Latvia visa-free for short stays. But if you’re from a country that requires a Schengen visa, you must apply in advance.

Tourists or temporary residents in third countries (like on a U.S. B1/B2 visa) must apply from their home country or permanent residence.

Keep in mind: Starting in 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries will also need to apply for ETIAS authorization before visiting Latvia or any other Schengen country.

Latvia visa appointment—where to start

Booking a visa appointment is the first official step. You’ll do this via:

• The Latvian embassy or consulate in your country,

• Or through an authorized visa center.

Latvia Schengen visa requirements (and what they really mean)

Here’s your Latvia Schengen visa checklist:

Proof of financial means

• Minimum €14 per day (for stays up to 30 days)

• Minimum €740 (for stays over 30 days)

• Include bank statements (last 3 months) and/or sponsor documents

Proof of purpose of travel

• Tourism: travel itinerary or plan

• Visiting friends/family: invitation letter

• Business: conference or meeting invitation

Employment/Education documents

• Employed: job letter, recent pay slips

• Self-employed: business license, tax return

• Students: school or university enrollment letter

Biometric data

• Fingerprints required when applying

• Exemption: if collected by a Schengen consulate within the past 5 years

Latvia visa for children

Children need extra documents:

• Birth certificate (translated & legalized)

• Parental consent (notarized if traveling with one parent)

• Financial declaration by parents

• Copies of both parents' IDs

How to get a Schengen Latvia visa easily

Global Law can make your Latvia visa process smoother by offering:

• Personalized guidance based on your travel purpose

• Document review to prevent errors

• Efficient appointment booking

• Help with biometric data submission

• Ongoing application tracking and support

Is it easy to get a Schengen Latvia visa?

Easier visa approval comes with a strong travel history, clear financial proof, complete documents, and strong ties to your home country.

Harder visa approval happens when documents are incomplete, finances are unclear, travel plans are vague, or the application is rushed.

Check our 2025 travel guide to easy Schengen visa countries!

What if your Latvia visa is refused?

You have the right to appeal within 30 days. Appeals must be submitted to the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in person, by mail, or online with a digital signature.

• Appeal address: Consular Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Elizabetes iela 57, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvia.

Only the applicant can submit the appeal, unless using a notarized power of attorney.

5 key tips to avoid Latvia visa rejection

1. Check documents twice – Make sure nothing is missing.

2. Print everything – No screenshots, no photos on your phone.

3. Include proof of stay – Hotels or an official invitation letter.

4. Show enough funds – Bank statements or sponsor documents.

Start your journey to Latvia

Whether you’re visiting the capital city of Riga, hiking in national parks, or spending time with loved ones, Latvia has something for everyone. With the right preparation, getting your Schengen Latvia visa is a smooth process.

Make sure you apply for a Schengen Latvia visa early, gather all required documents, and follow the steps in this guide. Your Latvian adventure is waiting.

FAQs

How much bank balance is required for a Latvia visa?

You need at least €14 per day for stays up to 30 days, or €740 for longer stays.

How much is the Latvia visa fee?

The standard visa fee is €90 for adults. Some nationalities pay a reduced fee of €35.

What is the currency in Latvia?

Latvia uses the Euro (€).