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2 ways to enter

Latvia visas

Latvia family visa

Some family members of European single-market citizens can enter Latvia without a visa using a qualifying residence card.

Ways to get a Latvia family visa

  1. Visa-free entry with a family-member residence card

    No visa needed

    Family members of any nationality holding a qualifying residence card and valid travel document can enter when accompanying or joining their European single-market family member.

    Stay
    Up to three months.
  2. Family-member visa at the border

    Visa on arrival

    In theory, a family member of a European single-market citizen who does not meet the residence-card exemption can obtain a visa at the border by proving the family relationship.

Who needs it

Family members who do not meet a visa exemption need an applicable entry route. A qualifying family member may, in theory, obtain a visa at the border by proving the relationship.

Who doesn't

Family members of any nationality with a qualifying residence card are exempt when accompanying or joining their European single-market family member. A qualifying card issued by a Schengen country also allows independent travel.

What to bring

  • A valid travel document.
  • A residence card showing family-member status.

Good to know

  • For the general exemption, accompany or join your European single-market family member.
  • A qualifying family-member residence card issued by a Schengen country also allows travel independently.
  • European single-market citizens include citizens of European Union countries, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.
  • Latvia-specific family settlement requirements are not specified.

Questions

Do I need a family visa for Latvia?

Family members who do not meet a visa exemption need an applicable entry route. A qualifying family member may, in theory, obtain a visa at the border by proving the relationship. Family members of any nationality with a qualifying residence card are exempt when accompanying or joining their European single-market family member. A qualifying card issued by a Schengen country also allows independent travel.

What are the ways to get a family visa for Latvia?

There are 2 options: Visa-free entry with a family-member residence card (no visa at all); Family-member visa at the border (a visa at the border).

Who can go to Latvia without a family visa?

Family members of any nationality holding a qualifying residence card and valid travel document can enter when accompanying or joining their European single-market family member.

How long can I stay on a Latvia family visa?

Up to three months for the described residence-card exemption.

What documents do I need for a Latvia family visa?

A valid travel document.; A residence card showing family-member status..

What rules do I have to follow on a Latvia family visa?

For the general exemption, accompany or join your European single-market family member. A qualifying family-member residence card issued by a Schengen country also allows travel independently.

Does my passport change whether I need a family visa for Latvia?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Latvia visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a family visa for Latvia be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Latvia family visa rules?

On Latvia's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my family visa once I am in Latvia?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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