A Latvia Schengen visa allows foreigners from nonvisa-exempt countries or other Schengen countries to visit and stay within the Latvian border for a period of 90 days. Not only can a Schengen visa holder stay in Latvia, but they can also stay in 26 other Schengen countries for three months or as long as their visa permits. If you wish to stay in Latvia for much longer, consider applying for a long visit Latvia Achengen visa.
Latvia At A Glance
The Republic of Latvia is a Baltic state located in Northern Europe with a population of a little over 1.8 million per the recent census carried out in the country.
The capital is Riga, which is the largest city in the country and hosts roughly one-third of the entire population. Latvia is a green paradise and is one of the cleanest countries to live in. It has more than 2000 lakes and above 12,000 rivers, making it a haven for different marine creatures.
There are many archeological sites in the country, notably the Struve Geodetic Arc and the Historic Center, both of which are in Riga. These sites are listed as UNESCO heritage sites and have protected status.
Latvia joined the European Union and the Schengen Area in 2004 and 2007, respectively. Ever since travelers have been able to visit the country on w Schengen visa issued by Latvia and other Schengen countries, a visit to Latvia will be worthwhile as the city is clean, the people are warm and friendly, and life is much cheaper than in other European countries.
You will also be amazed to know that Latvia shares a common culture and history with Estonia and Lithuania and is also home to the tallest women in the world.
Latvia Schengen Visa
After becoming a Schengen country in 2008, Latvia became a borderless country by adopting the same immigration policy as other nations in the union. The same rules that apply to travelers visiting other Schengen countries are the same as a trip to Latvia. Schengen visas, in general, are valid for 180 days and allow visitors to stay in.
Schengen countries for 90 days. Tb visa grants legal entry to all 27 Schengen nations regardless of the issuing nation.
Although most visas are for short visits, there are long-stay visas for work, study, and even residency, but the rules are markedly different from standard short-visit Schengen visas.
Who Needs A Latvia Schengen Visa?
The visa is for foreigners not from any of the 27 member states or visa-free countries.
Countries that make up the visa-free list are Canada, Australia, the UK, the US, Japan, and New Zealand. You need a visa to enter Latvia if you are not from any of these states.
At this point, it is also important to note that not all European countries are members of Schengen, but there is a different visa arrangement for citizens from those countries.
How Much Is The Visa Processing Fee?
Adults pay €80 for visa processing, including teenagers between 12-17 years. Parents traveling with adolescents between 6 and 11 must pay €40 for their kids, while there is no visa fee for children under 6. The visa fee is non-refundable and does not guarantee that your visa application will be approved.
What Can I Use The Latvia Schengen Visa For?
The Latvian visa is a short-visit visa that can be used for any shirt term purpose. You can use it for tourism, transit visas, family visits, business meetings, and other social engagements. You may use it for short-term study under three months, but you will need a study visa for a long-term course. So note that this visa is not work and does not qualify you for a work or residency permit. Those planning to reside permanently in Latvia must apply for a Residency or work visa.
Where To Apply For A Latvia Schengen Visa?
You can apply for this visa at the Latvian embassy or consulate in your home country or in the country where you reside. Suppose there isn’t a Latvian embassy in your location. In that case, you should look for the licensed agent designated by the Latvian ministry of foreign affairs to handle visa applications on their behalf.
Please book an appointment with them and show up to submit your Latvian Schengen visa application form and required documents for processing.
How Long Does It Take to Process A Latvian Visa?
After submitting your application form and documents, you will have to wait up to 15 calendar days. This is the standard processing time for Schengen Latvia visa, but the process may take longer than that if there is a large volume of applications. Furthermore, applications submitted at visa centers take longer than those submitted at embassies. Bear this in mind when submitting your application.
Documents Required
Latvia Schengen Visa application form
Ordinary passport (6 months validity minimum)
Travel Insurance for medical emergencies (€30,000 minimum)
Proof of funds (€14 minimum per day)
Proof of Accommodation
Cover letter
Round trip itinerary
Submit these documents to the official in charge of your Latvia Schengen Visa.