If you would like to obtain a work permit in Latvia, this article explains the key conditions. Our immigration lawyers in Latvia can manage the procedures on behalf of customers/foreign citizens who want to relocate here for work purposes.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Who requires a work permit in Latvia? | Non-EU citizens |
| Legislation | Employment Law in Latvia |
| Conditions | – to have a job offer through the State employment agency, – obtain a D visa, – prepare various documents. |
| Approval for a Latvian work permit | Issued by the Office of Citizenship & Immigration (OCMA) |
| Who can apply on behalf of a non-EU citizen | The employer, helped by our Latvian lawyer |
| Other documents required | – temporary residence permit, – work contract, – clear criminal record, – proof of accommodation, – valid passport, – qualifications |
| Health insurance | Required, with coverage throughout the Schengen Area (starting from EUR 30,000) |
| Letter of intent | Provided by the hiring company in Latvia |
| Is a Curriculum Vitae required? | YES |
| Is a work permit the same as a residence permit in Latvia | Both can be issued at the same time. |
| Minimum wage requirements in Latvia | EUR 950/month |
| What is EU Blue Card | A type of work & residence permit issued for highly qualified workers in Latvia |
| Costs | Around EUR 400 to get a work permit in Latvia in 5 days. Lower prices apply for long-term processing. |
| Validity of a work permit in Latvia | The same as the work contract. It can be prolonged if the employer decides so. |
| Working with our immigration lawyers in Latvia | For personalized attention & services in terms of paperwork and collaboration with the relevant authorities. |
Who must obtain a work permit in Latvia?
Non-EU citizens who want to relocate and work in Latvia.
Can foreigners apply for a work permit without a job offer?
No.
What types of work permits are available in Latvia?
- standard employment work permits,
- seasonal work permits,
- work permits for researchers/specialists,
- EU Blue Card for highly skilled workers, etc.
What are the key conditions to obtain a work permit in Latvia?
- the application starts with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs in Latvia (OCMA),
- EUR 950 is the minimum monthly income required at the time of the application,
- A2 Latvian language is mandatory,
- health insurance with at least EUR 30,000 coverage is compulsory when applying for a work permit in Latvia.
NOTE: The Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs issues work permits for foreign citizens only after the Latvian employer has filed an application with the State Employment Agency and after sending an invitation to the employee.
What documents are required to obtain a work permit in Latvia?
The documents required when applying for a work visa in Latvia, apart from the employment contract, are:
- a valid passport,
- two passport-sized photographs,
- two employment permit application forms,
- a medical certificate,
- bank account statements to prove self-sufficiency,
- proof of visa application fee payment,
- marriage certificate, where applicable,
- a letter of intent from the Latvian employer.
IMPORTANT: All documents must be translated into Latvian and then notarized before submission.
Can I apply for a work permit in Latvia myself?
Once you accept a job in Latvia, the hiring company will handle the work permit procedures & paperwork, alongside a specialized lawyer. Our Latvian immigration lawyers can oversee such cases and collaborate closely with enterprises hiring staff from abroad.
NOTE: The hiring company will act as a sponsor for the foreign citizen applying for a work permit in Latvia.
Is the work permit the same as the residency permit in Latvia?
Both permits can be issued at the same time. Thus, the applicant will have a valid residency permit and be able to work legally in Latvia.
Can family members be part of the work permit application for Latvia?
Yes.
What is the validity of a work permit for Latvia?
Normally, one year, but in most cases, it depends on the duration of the employment contract.
What happens if I switch jobs while holding a work permit in Latvia?
A new application must be made.
What is the time frame to get the work permit in Latvia?
About 30 days or faster, depending on the documents and procedures.
Would you like to explore more about the work permits in Latvia? Please use our online services and contact our law firm in Latvia for personalized support.