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3 ways to enter

Latvia visas

Latvia work visa

A visa-free short visit does not allow work in Latvia. European single-market citizens have separate rights to work, while other travellers need an appropriate route.

Ways to get a Latvia work visa

  2. Long-stay visa or residence permit for work

    Other permit

    Non-European single-market nationals staying over 90 days generally need a long-stay visa or residence permit, with work conditions set by the country.

    Stay
    A long-stay visa generally covers less than a year; a residence permit covers longer periods.

  3. Temporary work under the Van Der Elst rule

    Other permit

    Non-European single-market nationals already employed within that market may work temporarily in another member country for the same employer under certain conditions.

    Stay
    Temporary work; no length is specified.

Who needs it

Travellers outside European free-movement rights need permission appropriate to their work and stay.

Who doesn't

Citizens of European Union countries, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland can work in Latvia without a visa.

Good to know

  • Do not use the ordinary visa-free short-visit exemption to work in Latvia.
  • Long-stay visas and residence permits have country-specific conditions.
  • Latvia-specific employment visa requirements are not specified.
  • A separate working holiday route is listed for eligible nationalities.

Questions

Do I need a work visa for Latvia?

Travellers outside European free-movement rights need permission appropriate to their work and stay. Citizens of European Union countries, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland can work in Latvia without a visa.

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

There are 3 options: Work under European free-movement rights (no visa at all); Long-stay visa or residence permit for work (a special permit); Temporary work under the Van Der Elst rule (a special permit).

Who can go to Latvia without a work visa?

Citizens of European Union countries, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland can enter, live and work in Latvia without a visa.

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

Do not use the ordinary visa-free short-visit exemption to work in Latvia. Long-stay visas and residence permits have country-specific conditions.

Does my passport change whether I need a work 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 work 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 work 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 work 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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