Visa Information

Overview

Airport transit visa may be issued to stay in an international transit zone at the airport of Latvia for nationals of several countries who need to change an airplane at the airport of Latvia. In principle an airport transit visa allowing to stay in an international transit zone is required for citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka or foreigners holding travel documents issued by the aforementioned countries.

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or cash are not accepted.

Please Note:

• The applicable visa fee, in USD ($), is as per the current exchange rate and is subject to change without notice.
• Additional services are separate from VFS Service fee and Visa application fee. Please click here for list of services and fee applicable.

• The following category of applicants are exempted from the Short Stay Schengen Visa fee:

  • Short Stay Schengen Visa ONLY- Children under six years;
  • School pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training;
  • Researchers from third countries travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research;
  • Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations;
  • Family member of EU/EEA and Switzerland nationals.

All fees are non-refundable once paid.

Documents Required

• All visa applicants must know that each visa application must include the original of each document and their photocopies, as listed on the website.
• All visa applications presented will be carefully examined by our visa officer. However, we wish to draw you attention that if you do not submit all the requested documents (originals with their photocopies) the visa will be denied. No exemption will be made. For that reason we do advise you to prepare your visa application package very carefully in order to avoid any delays.
• A completed and signed online application form; must be submitted.

• Click Here for checklist

  Documents required for applying a Schengen visa for travel to Latvia:

  • a valid travel document which has been issued within the previous 10 years, contains at least two blank pages for visas and is valid at least 3 months after the expiration date of the visa;
  • a completed and signed ONLINE APPLICATION FORM. The computer completed application form has to be printed out, signed (at the end of the application form) and submitted to the Embassy. In case several persons (minors or a spouse) are covered by the same travel document, individual application forms must be filled in and signed by the persons concerned; in case of minors must be signed by the parental authority or the legal guardian. Minors at least 15 years old may file and sign the visa application themselves;
  • 1 passport-size recent (not older than 6 months) color photo (35mm x 45mm) with a light background, including the entire face, without head-dress. Requirements for the quality of the passport photo can be found here;
  • an insurance policy valid in Schengen countries with a coverage of at least 50.000 USD for the entire duration of stay in Schengen area. The insurance policy should cover medical, hospital and repatriation costs. Further information regarding insurance policy can be found here;
  • the application fee is 80 EUR. For the citizens of Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Moldova and Ukraine the fee is 35 EUR. Information on visa fee waiver policy can be found here.

  Supporting documents:

  • proof of legal residence in the USA. Original of valid US alien registration card (permanent residence permit, green card) or valid US resident visa. The US residence permit or visa should be valid at least three months beyond the intended departure from the territory of the Schengen Member States; Holders of B1/B2 visa must apply for a Schengen visa in their country of origin or permanent residence.
  • purpose of entry –
    • Family/friends/private visit - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link;
    • Business/Conference - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link. Original signed invitation letter from business partner in Latvia (including all the necessary information, see link;
    • Tourism –
  • Complete travel itinerary (round trip tickets from the USA – flight reservation on with booking reference number with applicant’s name and clear details of travel dates and flight numbers and also other transportation details (bus tickets, rental car details) when travelling from one country to another within the Schengen area.
  • Confirmed hotel reservation with address and telephone matching with flight dates. If you are planning several visits or visit other Schengen countries hotel bookings must be produced for all visits.
  • If the trip is arranged by a tour operator, booking of the trip and itinerary with specifying hotels, dates and contact details.

  Please note that Latvia must be the main destination of your trip (the country where you will be spending the most number of days).

  • if travelling on business of a private visit – proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or an invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs if staying with the inviting party);
  • if travelling on business of a private visit – means of transportation (round trip ticket or ticket reservation);
  • sufficient means of subsistence for the duration of the intended stay (records of bank account transactions in the past 3 months; credit card together with turnover printouts; letter from employer regarding salary);
  • for students F-1 visa holders – a copy of proof of enrollment F1.

  NOTE! Minors (children under the age of 18) - in addition to the above requirements Birth Certificate/proof of legal guardianship has to be presented and copy submitted. Both parents consent has to be submitted if minor is traveling alone.

  Visa application should be received at the Embassy at least 15 business days before the intended visit and no earlier than 6 months prior.

Photo Specifications

Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background

• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)

  Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

  If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.

Processing Time

The decision on the issue of visa shall be made within 15 to 30 days, in specific cases up to 60 calendar days. In cases of countries with a visa facilitation agreement with the EU this time period is 10 days.

Furthermore applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite center in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Los Angeles and Houston TX, need to calculate 2 extra days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

Download Form

Schengen visa application form

Please be advised, all our VFS Visa Application Centers have additional services available as listed to assist applicants with application submission process.

Overview

Latvian business visa is granted to foreign nationals to discuss with business representatives, participate in a scientific, educational, professional, or company meeting or conference, work out an estate or negotiate an agreement in Latvia.

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or cash are not accepted.

Please Note:

• The applicable visa fee, in USD ($), is as per the current exchange rate and is subject to change without notice.
• Additional services are separate from VFS Service fee and Visa application fee. Please click here for list of services and fee applicable.

• The following category of applicants are exempted from the Short Stay Schengen Visa fee:

  1. Short Stay Schengen Visa ONLY- Children under six years;
  2. School pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training;
  3. Researchers from third countries travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research;
  4. Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations;
  5. Family member of EU/EEA and Switzerland nationals.

All fees are non-refundable once paid.

Documents Required

• All visa applicants must know that each visa application must include the original of each document and their photocopies, as listed on the website.
• All visa applications presented will be carefully examined by our visa officer. However, we wish to draw you attention that if you do not submit all the requested documents (originals with their photocopies) the visa will be denied. No exemption will be made. For that reason we do advise you to prepare your visa application package very carefully in order to avoid any delays.
• A completed and signed online application form must be submitted.

• Click Here for checklist

  Documents required for applying a Schengen visa for travel to Latvia:

  • a valid travel document which has been issued within the previous 10 years, contains at least two blank pages for visas and is valid at least 3 months after the expiration date of the visa;
  • a completed and signed ONLINE APPLICATION FORM. The computer completed application form has to be printed out, signed (at the end of the application form) and submitted to the Embassy. In case several persons (minors or a spouse) are covered by the same travel document, individual application forms must be filled in and signed by the persons concerned; in case of minors must be signed by the parental authority or the legal guardian. Minors at least 15 years old may file and sign the visa application themselves;
  • 1 passport-size recent (not older than 6 months) color photo (35mm x 45mm) with a light background, including the entire face, without head-dress. Requirements for the quality of the passport photo can be found here;
  • an insurance policy valid in Schengen countries with a coverage of at least 50.000 USD for the entire duration of stay in Schengen area. The insurance policy should cover medical, hospital and repatriation costs. Further information regarding insurance policy can be found here;
  • the application fee is 80 EUR. For the citizens of Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Moldova and Ukraine the fee is 35 EUR. Information on visa fee waiver policy can be found here.

  Supporting documents:

  • proof of legal residence in the USA. Original of valid US alien registration card (permanent residence permit, green card) or valid US resident visa. The US residence permit or visa should be valid at least three months beyond the intended departure from the territory of the Schengen Member States; Holders of B1/B2 visa must apply for a Schengen visa in their country of origin or permanent residence.
  • purpose of entry –
    • Family/friends/private visit - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link;
    • Business/Conference - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link. Original signed invitation letter from business partner in Latvia (including all the necessary information, see link;
    • Tourism –
  • Complete travel itinerary (round trip tickets from the USA – flight reservation on with booking reference number with applicant’s name and clear details of travel dates and flight numbers and also other transportation details (bus tickets, rental car details) when travelling from one country to another within the Schengen area.
  • Confirmed hotel reservation with address and telephone matching with flight dates. If you are planning several visits or visit other Schengen countries hotel bookings must be produced for all visits.
  • If the trip is arranged by a tour operator, booking of the trip and itinerary with specifying hotels, dates and contact details.

  Please note that Latvia must be the main destination of your trip (the country where you will be spending the most number of days).

  • if travelling on business of a private visit – proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or an invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs if staying with the inviting party);
  • if travelling on business of a private visit – means of transportation (round trip ticket or ticket reservation);
  • sufficient means of subsistence for the duration of the intended stay (records of bank account transactions in the past 3 months; credit card together with turnover printouts; letter from employer regarding salary);
  • for students F-1 visa holders – a copy of proof of enrollment F1.

  NOTE! Minors (children under the age of 18) - in addition to the above requirements Birth Certificate/proof of legal guardianship has to be presented and copy submitted. Both parents consent has to be submitted if minor is traveling alone.

  Visa application should be received at the Embassy at least 15 business days before the intended visit and no earlier than 6 months prior.

Photo Specifications

Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background

• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)

  Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

  If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.

Processing Time

The decision on the issue of visa shall be made within 15 to 30 days, in specific cases up to 60 calendar days. In cases of countries with a visa facilitation agreement with the EU this time period is 10 days.

Furthermore applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite center in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Los Angeles and Houston TX, need to calculate 2 extra days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

Download Form

Schengen visa application form

Please be advised, all our VFS Visa Application Centers have additional services available as listed to assist applicants with application submission process.

Overview

Journeys undertaken for cultural, sports or religious events and for film crews.

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or cash are not accepted.

Please Note:

• The applicable visa fee, in USD ($), is as per the current exchange rate and is subject to change without notice.
• Additional services are separate from VFS Service fee and Visa application fee. Please click here for list of services and fee applicable.

• The following category of applicants are exempted from the Short Stay Schengen Visa fee:

  1. Short Stay Schengen Visa ONLY- Children under six years;
  2. School pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training;
  3. Researchers from third countries travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research;
  4. Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations;
  5. Family member of EU/EEA and Switzerland nationals.

All fees are non-refundable once paid.

Documents Required

• All visa applicants must know that each visa application must include the original of each document and their photocopies, as listed on the website.
• All visa applications presented will be carefully examined by our visa officer. However, we wish to draw you attention that if you do not submit all the requested documents (originals with their photocopies) the visa will be denied. No exemption will be made. For that reason we do advise you to prepare your visa application package very carefully in order to avoid any delays.
• A completed and signed online application form; must be submitted.

• Click Here for checklist

Documents required for applying a Schengen visa for travel to Latvia:

• a valid travel document which has been issued within the previous 10 years, contains at least two blank pages for visas and is valid at least 3 months after the expiration date of the visa;
• a completed and signed ONLINE APPLICATION FORM. The computer completed application form has to be printed out, signed (at the end of the application form) and submitted to the Embassy. In case several persons (minors or a spouse) are covered by the same travel document, individual application forms must be filled in and signed by the persons concerned; in case of minors must be signed by the parental authority or the legal guardian. Minors at least 15 years old may file and sign the visa application themselves;
• 1 passport-size recent (not older than 6 months) color photo (35mm x 45mm) with a light background, including the entire face, without head-dress. Requirements for the quality of the passport photo can be found here;
• an insurance policy valid in Schengen countries with a coverage of at least 50.000 USD for the entire duration of stay in Schengen area. The insurance policy should cover medical, hospital and repatriation costs. Further information regarding insurance policy can be found here;
• the application fee is 80 EUR. For the citizens of Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Moldova and Ukraine the fee is 35 EUR. Information on visa fee waiver policy can be found here.

Supporting documents:

• proof of legal residence in the USA. Original of valid US alien registration card (permanent residence permit, green card) or valid US resident visa. The US residence permit or visa should be valid at least three months beyond the intended departure from the territory of the Schengen Member States; Holders of B1/B2 visa must apply for a Schengen visa in their country of origin or permanent residence.
• purpose of entry –
  • Family/friends/private visit - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link;
  • Business/Conference - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link. Original signed invitation letter from business partner in Latvia (including all the necessary information, see link;
  • Tourism –
• Complete travel itinerary (round trip tickets from the USA – flight reservation on with booking reference number with applicant’s name and clear details of travel dates and flight numbers and also other transportation details (bus tickets, rental car details) when travelling from one country to another within the Schengen area.
• Confirmed hotel reservation with address and telephone matching with flight dates. If you are planning several visits or visit other Schengen countries hotel bookings must be produced for all visits.
• If the trip is arranged by a tour operator, booking of the trip and itinerary with specifying hotels, dates and contact details.

Please note that Latvia must be the main destination of your trip (the country where you will be spending the most number of days).

• if travelling on business of a private visit – proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or an invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs if staying with the inviting party);
• if travelling on business of a private visit – means of transportation (round trip ticket or ticket reservation);
• sufficient means of subsistence for the duration of the intended stay (records of bank account transactions in the past 3 months; credit card together with turnover printouts; letter from employer regarding salary);
• for students F-1 visa holders – a copy of proof of enrollment F1.

NOTE! Minors (children under the age of 18) - in addition to the above requirements Birth Certificate/proof of legal guardianship has to be presented and copy submitted. Both parents consent has to be submitted if minor is traveling alone.

Visa application should be received at the Embassy at least 15 business days before the intended visit and no earlier than 6 months prior.

Photo Specifications

Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background

• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)

  Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

  If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.

Processing Time

The decision on the issue of visa shall be made within 15 to 30 days, in specific cases up to 60 calendar days. In cases of countries with a visa facilitation agreement with the EU this time period is 10 days.

Furthermore applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite center in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Los Angeles and Houston TX, need to calculate 2 extra days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

Download Form

Schengen visa application form

Overview

This visa application is applicable in case you are travelling for visiting family or friends. This visa is given for travel period of less than 90 days.

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or cash are not accepted.

Please Note:

• The applicable visa fee, in USD ($), is as per the current exchange rate and is subject to change without notice.
• Additional services are separate from VFS Service fee and Visa application fee. Please click here for list of services and fee applicable.

• The following category of applicants are exempted from the Short Stay Schengen Visa fee:

  1. Short Stay Schengen Visa ONLY- Children under six years;
  2. School pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training;
  3. Researchers from third countries travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research;
  4. Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations;
  5. Family member of EU/EEA and Switzerland nationals.

All fees are non-refundable once paid.

Documents Required

• All visa applicants must know that each visa application must include the original of each document and their photocopies, as listed on the website.
• All visa applications presented will be carefully examined by our visa officer. However, we wish to draw you attention that if you do not submit all the requested documents (originals with their photocopies) the visa will be denied. No exemption will be made. For that reason we do advise you to prepare your visa application package very carefully in order to avoid any delays.
• A completed and signed online application form; must be submitted.

• Click Here for checklist

Documents required for applying a Schengen visa for travel to Latvia:

• a valid travel document which has been issued within the previous 10 years, contains at least two blank pages for visas and is valid at least 3 months after the expiration date of the visa;
• a completed and signed ONLINE APPLICATION FORM. The computer completed application form has to be printed out, signed (at the end of the application form) and submitted to the Embassy. In case several persons (minors or a spouse) are covered by the same travel document, individual application forms must be filled in and signed by the persons concerned; in case of minors must be signed by the parental authority or the legal guardian. Minors at least 15 years old may file and sign the visa application themselves;
• 1 passport-size recent (not older than 6 months) color photo (35mm x 45mm) with a light background, including the entire face, without head-dress. Requirements for the quality of the passport photo can be found here;
• an insurance policy valid in Schengen countries with a coverage of at least 50.000 USD for the entire duration of stay in Schengen area. The insurance policy should cover medical, hospital and repatriation costs. Further information regarding insurance policy can be found here;
• the application fee is 80 EUR. For the citizens of Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Moldova and Ukraine the fee is 35 EUR. Information on visa fee waiver policy can be found here.

Supporting documents:

• proof of legal residence in the USA. Original of valid US alien registration card (permanent residence permit, green card) or valid US resident visa. The US residence permit or visa should be valid at least three months beyond the intended departure from the territory of the Schengen Member States; Holders of B1/B2 visa must apply for a Schengen visa in their country of origin or permanent residence.
• purpose of entry –
  • Family/friends/private visit - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link;
  • Business/Conference - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link. Original signed invitation letter from business partner in Latvia (including all the necessary information, see link;
  • Tourism –
• Complete travel itinerary (round trip tickets from the USA – flight reservation on with booking reference number with applicant’s name and clear details of travel dates and flight numbers and also other transportation details (bus tickets, rental car details) when travelling from one country to another within the Schengen area.
• Confirmed hotel reservation with address and telephone matching with flight dates. If you are planning several visits or visit other Schengen countries hotel bookings must be produced for all visits.
• If the trip is arranged by a tour operator, booking of the trip and itinerary with specifying hotels, dates and contact details.

Please note that Latvia must be the main destination of your trip (the country where you will be spending the most number of days).

• if travelling on business of a private visit – proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or an invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs if staying with the inviting party);
• if travelling on business of a private visit – means of transportation (round trip ticket or ticket reservation);
• sufficient means of subsistence for the duration of the intended stay (records of bank account transactions in the past 3 months; credit card together with turnover printouts; letter from employer regarding salary);
• for students F-1 visa holders – a copy of proof of enrollment F1.

NOTE! Minors (children under the age of 18) - in addition to the above requirements Birth Certificate/proof of legal guardianship has to be presented and copy submitted. Both parents consent has to be submitted if minor is traveling alone.

Visa application should be received at the Embassy at least 15 business days before the intended visit and no earlier than 6 months prior.

Photo Specifications

Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background

• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)

  Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

  If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.

Processing Time

The decision on the issue of visa shall be made within 15 to 30 days, in specific cases up to 60 calendar days. In cases of countries with a visa facilitation agreement with the EU this time period is 10 days.

Furthermore applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite center in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Los Angeles and Houston TX, need to calculate 2 extra days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

Download Form

Schengen visa application form

Overview

Journeys undertaken for the purpose of Medical Treatment.

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or cash are not accepted.

Please Note:

• The applicable visa fee, in USD ($), is as per the current exchange rate and is subject to change without notice.
• Additional services are separate from VFS Service fee and Visa application fee. Please click here for list of services and fee applicable.

• The following category of applicants are exempted from the Short Stay Schengen Visa fee:

  1. Short Stay Schengen Visa ONLY- Children under six years;
  2. School pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training;
  3. Researchers from third countries travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research;
  4. Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations;
  5. Family member of EU/EEA and Switzerland nationals.

All fees are non-refundable once paid.

Documents Required

• All visa applicants must know that each visa application must include the original of each document and their photocopies, as listed on the website.
• All visa applications presented will be carefully examined by our visa officer. However, we wish to draw you attention that if you do not submit all the requested documents (originals with their photocopies) the visa will be denied. No exemption will be made. For that reason we do advise you to prepare your visa application package very carefully in order to avoid any delays.
• A completed and signed online application form; must be submitted.

• Click Here for checklist

Documents required for applying a Schengen visa for travel to Latvia:

• a valid travel document which has been issued within the previous 10 years, contains at least two blank pages for visas and is valid at least 3 months after the expiration date of the visa;
• a completed and signed ONLINE APPLICATION FORM. The computer completed application form has to be printed out, signed (at the end of the application form) and submitted to the Embassy. In case several persons (minors or a spouse) are covered by the same travel document, individual application forms must be filled in and signed by the persons concerned; in case of minors must be signed by the parental authority or the legal guardian. Minors at least 15 years old may file and sign the visa application themselves;
• 1 passport-size recent (not older than 6 months) color photo (35mm x 45mm) with a light background, including the entire face, without head-dress. Requirements for the quality of the passport photo can be found here;
• an insurance policy valid in Schengen countries with a coverage of at least 50.000 USD for the entire duration of stay in Schengen area. The insurance policy should cover medical, hospital and repatriation costs. Further information regarding insurance policy can be found here;
• the application fee is 80 EUR. For the citizens of Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Moldova and Ukraine the fee is 35 EUR. Information on visa fee waiver policy can be found here.

Supporting documents:

• proof of legal residence in the USA. Original of valid US alien registration card (permanent residence permit, green card) or valid US resident visa. The US residence permit or visa should be valid at least three months beyond the intended departure from the territory of the Schengen Member States; Holders of B1/B2 visa must apply for a Schengen visa in their country of origin or permanent residence.
• purpose of entry –
  • Family/friends/private visit - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link;
  • Business/Conference - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link. Original signed invitation letter from business partner in Latvia (including all the necessary information, see link;
  • Tourism –
• Complete travel itinerary (round trip tickets from the USA – flight reservation on with booking reference number with applicant’s name and clear details of travel dates and flight numbers and also other transportation details (bus tickets, rental car details) when travelling from one country to another within the Schengen area.
• Confirmed hotel reservation with address and telephone matching with flight dates. If you are planning several visits or visit other Schengen countries hotel bookings must be produced for all visits.
• If the trip is arranged by a tour operator, booking of the trip and itinerary with specifying hotels, dates and contact details.

Please note that Latvia must be the main destination of your trip (the country where you will be spending the most number of days).

• if travelling on business of a private visit – proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or an invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs if staying with the inviting party);
• if travelling on business of a private visit – means of transportation (round trip ticket or ticket reservation);
• sufficient means of subsistence for the duration of the intended stay (records of bank account transactions in the past 3 months; credit card together with turnover printouts; letter from employer regarding salary);
• for students F-1 visa holders – a copy of proof of enrollment F1.

NOTE! Minors (children under the age of 18) - in addition to the above requirements Birth Certificate/proof of legal guardianship has to be presented and copy submitted. Both parents consent has to be submitted if minor is traveling alone.

Visa application should be received at the Embassy at least 15 business days before the intended visit and no earlier than 6 months prior.

Photo Specifications

Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background

• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)

  Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

  If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.

Processing Time

The decision on the issue of visa shall be made within 15 to 30 days, in specific cases up to 60 calendar days. In cases of countries with a visa facilitation agreement with the EU this time period is 10 days.

Furthermore applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite center in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Los Angeles and Houston TX, need to calculate 2 extra days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

Download Form

Schengen visa application form

Overview

This is a special type of Schengen visa (C) allowing the seafarer to enter the Schengen area in order to board and disembark the vessel.

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or cash are not accepted.

Please Note:

• The applicable visa fee, in USD ($), is as per the current exchange rate and is subject to change without notice.
• Additional services are separate from VFS Service fee and Visa application fee. Please click here for list of services and fee applicable.

• The following category of applicants are exempted from the Short Stay Schengen Visa fee:

  1. Short Stay Schengen Visa ONLY- Children under six years;
  2. School pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training;
  3. Researchers from third countries travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research;
  4. Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations;
  5. Family member of EU/EEA and Switzerland nationals.

All fees are non-refundable once paid.

Documents Required

• All visa applicants must know that each visa application must include the original of each document and their photocopies, as listed on the website.
• All visa applications presented will be carefully examined by our visa officer. However, we wish to draw you attention that if you do not submit all the requested documents (originals with their photocopies) the visa will be denied. No exemption will be made. For that reason we do advise you to prepare your visa application package very carefully in order to avoid any delays.
• A completed and signed online application form; must be submitted.

• Click Here for checklist

Documents required for applying a Schengen visa for travel to Latvia:

• a valid travel document which has been issued within the previous 10 years, contains at least two blank pages for visas and is valid at least 3 months after the expiration date of the visa;
• a completed and signed ONLINE APPLICATION FORM. The computer completed application form has to be printed out, signed (at the end of the application form) and submitted to the Embassy. In case several persons (minors or a spouse) are covered by the same travel document, individual application forms must be filled in and signed by the persons concerned; in case of minors must be signed by the parental authority or the legal guardian. Minors at least 15 years old may file and sign the visa application themselves;
• 1 passport-size recent (not older than 6 months) color photo (35mm x 45mm) with a light background, including the entire face, without head-dress. Requirements for the quality of the passport photo can be found here;
• an insurance policy valid in Schengen countries with a coverage of at least 50.000 USD for the entire duration of stay in Schengen area. The insurance policy should cover medical, hospital and repatriation costs. Further information regarding insurance policy can be found here;
• the application fee is 80 EUR. For the citizens of Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Moldova and Ukraine the fee is 35 EUR. Information on visa fee waiver policy can be found here.

Supporting documents:

• proof of legal residence in the USA. Original of valid US alien registration card (permanent residence permit, green card) or valid US resident visa. The US residence permit or visa should be valid at least three months beyond the intended departure from the territory of the Schengen Member States; Holders of B1/B2 visa must apply for a Schengen visa in their country of origin or permanent residence.
• purpose of entry –
  • Family/friends/private visit - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link;
  • Business/Conference - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link. Original signed invitation letter from business partner in Latvia (including all the necessary information, see link;
  • Tourism –
• Complete travel itinerary (round trip tickets from the USA – flight reservation on with booking reference number with applicant’s name and clear details of travel dates and flight numbers and also other transportation details (bus tickets, rental car details) when travelling from one country to another within the Schengen area.
• Confirmed hotel reservation with address and telephone matching with flight dates. If you are planning several visits or visit other Schengen countries hotel bookings must be produced for all visits.
• If the trip is arranged by a tour operator, booking of the trip and itinerary with specifying hotels, dates and contact details.

Please note that Latvia must be the main destination of your trip (the country where you will be spending the most number of days).

• if travelling on business of a private visit – proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or an invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs if staying with the inviting party);
• if travelling on business of a private visit – means of transportation (round trip ticket or ticket reservation);
• sufficient means of subsistence for the duration of the intended stay (records of bank account transactions in the past 3 months; credit card together with turnover printouts; letter from employer regarding salary);
• for students F-1 visa holders – a copy of proof of enrollment F1.

NOTE! Minors (children under the age of 18) - in addition to the above requirements Birth Certificate/proof of legal guardianship has to be presented and copy submitted. Both parents consent has to be submitted if minor is traveling alone.

Visa application should be received at the Embassy at least 15 business days before the intended visit and no earlier than 6 months prior.

Photo Specifications

Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form
• If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.

Processing Time

The decision on the issue of visa shall be made within 15 to 30 days, in specific cases up to 60 calendar days. In cases of countries with a visa facilitation agreement with the EU this time period is 10 days.

Furthermore applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite center in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Los Angeles and Houston TX, need to calculate 2 extra days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

Download Form

Schengen visa application form

Overview

Latvian Tourist visa issued for those going to Latvia for holidays, tourism, and entertainment or to see friends and family in Latvia. If you are a Latvian citizen, you do not have to submit an application for a Latvian visa

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or cash are not accepted.

Please Note:

• The applicable visa fee, in USD ($), is as per the current exchange rate and is subject to change without notice.
• Additional services are separate from VFS Service fee and Visa application fee. Please click here for list of services and fee applicable.

• The following category of applicants are exempted from the Short Stay Schengen Visa fee:

  1. Short Stay Schengen Visa ONLY- Children under six years;
  2. School pupils, students, postgraduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake stays for the purpose of study or educational training;
  3. Researchers from third countries travelling for the purpose of carrying out scientific research;
  4. Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 years or less participating in seminars, conferences, sports, cultural or educational events organized by non-profit organizations;
  5. Family member of EU/EEA and Switzerland nationals.

All fees are non-refundable once paid.

Documents Required

• All visa applicants must know that each visa application must include the original of each document and their photocopies, as listed on the website.
• All visa applications presented will be carefully examined by our visa officer. However, we wish to draw you attention that if you do not submit all the requested documents (originals with their photocopies) the visa will be denied. No exemption will be made. For that reason we do advise you to prepare your visa application package very carefully in order to avoid any delays.
• A completed and signed online application form; must be submitted.

• Click Here for checklist

  Documents required for applying a Schengen visa for travel to Latvia:

  • a valid travel document which has been issued within the previous 10 years, contains at least two blank pages for visas and is valid at least 3 months after the expiration date of the visa;
  • a completed and signed ONLINE APPLICATION FORM. The computer completed application form has to be printed out, signed (at the end of the application form) and submitted to the Embassy. In case several persons (minors or a spouse) are covered by the same travel document, individual application forms must be filled in and signed by the persons concerned; in case of minors must be signed by the parental authority or the legal guardian. Minors at least 15 years old may file and sign the visa application themselves;
  • 1 passport-size recent (not older than 6 months) color photo (35mm x 45mm) with a light background, including the entire face, without head-dress. Requirements for the quality of the passport photo can be found here;
  • an insurance policy valid in Schengen countries with a coverage of at least 50.000 USD for the entire duration of stay in Schengen area. The insurance policy should cover medical, hospital and repatriation costs. Further information regarding insurance policy can be found here;
  • the application fee is 80 EUR. For the citizens of Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Moldova and Ukraine the fee is 35 EUR. Information on visa fee waiver policy can be found here.

  Supporting documents:

  • proof of legal residence in the USA. Original of valid US alien registration card (permanent residence permit, green card) or valid US resident visa. The US residence permit or visa should be valid at least three months beyond the intended departure from the territory of the Schengen Member States; Holders of B1/B2 visa must apply for a Schengen visa in their country of origin or permanent residence.
  • purpose of entry –
    • Family/friends/private visit - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link;
    • Business/Conference - Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, see link. Original signed invitation letter from business partner in Latvia (including all the necessary information, see link;
    • Tourism –
  • Complete travel itinerary (round trip tickets from the USA – flight reservation on with booking reference number with applicant’s name and clear details of travel dates and flight numbers and also other transportation details (bus tickets, rental car details) when travelling from one country to another within the Schengen area.
  • Confirmed hotel reservation with address and telephone matching with flight dates. If you are planning several visits or visit other Schengen countries hotel bookings must be produced for all visits.
  • If the trip is arranged by a tour operator, booking of the trip and itinerary with specifying hotels, dates and contact details.

  Please note that Latvia must be the main destination of your trip (the country where you will be spending the most number of days).

  • if travelling on business of a private visit – proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or an invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs if staying with the inviting party);
  • if travelling on business of a private visit – means of transportation (round trip ticket or ticket reservation);
  • sufficient means of subsistence for the duration of the intended stay (records of bank account transactions in the past 3 months; credit card together with turnover printouts; letter from employer regarding salary);
  • for students F-1 visa holders – a copy of proof of enrollment F1.

  NOTE! Minors (children under the age of 18) - in addition to the above requirements Birth Certificate/proof of legal guardianship has to be presented and copy submitted. Both parents consent has to be submitted if minor is traveling alone.

  Visa application should be received at the Embassy at least 15 business days before the intended visit and no earlier than 6 months prior.

Photo Specifications

Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background
• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)
• Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form
• If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.

Processing Time

The decision on the issue of visa shall be made within 15 to 30 days, in specific cases up to 60 calendar days. In cases of countries with a visa facilitation agreement with the EU this time period is 10 days.

Furthermore applicants need to consider that VFS/Mission’s closures and holidays (see Public Holidays/Closures) may extend the visa application processing time.

Applicants submitting their visa application in our satellite center in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Los Angeles and Houston TX, need to calculate 2 extra days to their minimum processing time as their visa application will first be dispatched to the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia.

The Mission may always request for additional information/documents or invite applicants for an interview during the visa application process and this may cause delays in the visa process, which applicants accept responsibility for.

Download Form

Schengen visa application form

Overview

A foreigner who needs to stay in Latvia more than 90 days in a half-year period depending on the circumstances should apply for a long-stay visa (or a residence permit). Under Regulation of the European Parliament and the Council that came into effect on 5 April 2010, a third-country national holding a valid long-stay visa issued by a Schengen state may travel and stay in the territory of other Schengen states no more than 90 days in any 180-day period.

Few common categories under Longs Stay Visa Type D are:

• Student
• Cultural Event
• Sports
• Family Reunification
• Work/Employment permit

Visa Fees

Fees are subject to change without notice. If your application meets the initial checks upon submission, it will then be accepted for payment at the Visa Application Center. Payment can be made via credit/debit card. Personal Checks or checks are not accepted.

Please Note:

• The applicable visa fee, in USD ($), is as per the current exchange rate and is subject to change without notice.
• Additional services are separate from VFS Service fee and Visa application fee. Please click here for list of services and fee applicable.

All fees are non-refundable once paid.

Documents Required

Click here for more information

Please be advised, all our VFS Visa Application Centers have additional services available as listed to assist applicants with application submission process.

Photo Specifications

Please provide one recent (not older than 6 months) color photograph of yourself, meeting the following requirements:

• Taken against a plain light (white or off-white) background so that features are distinguishable and contrast against the background
• Clear quality and with the face in focus
• Full face: non-smiling, no sunglasses, no hat/cap or any head covering, unless the applicant wears such items because of his/her religious belief or ethnic background

• Printed on normal photographic paper (camera print)

  Photograph attached (glued) to the Visa Application Form

  If the photographs presented do not meet these requirements (see examples here), then the visa application will be considered incomplete and applicant will be asked to take new photographs in the photo booth in the visa application center.

Processing Time

Click here for more information

Download Form

Online Application Form