Latvian Working Visas: Job Regulations and Requirements
Navigating Latvia's Work Regulations and Requirements
Latvia, a member of the European Union, is not just a great place to work, but also a fantastic destination to explore. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and pristine nature, it offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to a wide range of interests. The country’s tourism sector is booming, contributing significantly to the economy and creating a myriad of job opportunities in various fields.
Navigating the process of obtaining a working visa can be daunting, but fear not! Our guide is here to help you understand the process, requirements, and regulations. We aim to provide you with the most updated and accurate information, empowering you to take the next big step in your career journey with confidence. Let’s explore the possibilities together in Latvia, where work-life balance is not just a concept, but a way of life!
EU citizens
As an EU/EEA or Swiss national, you generally don’t need a work permit to work anywhere in the EU, including Latvia. This freedom of movement is one of the fundamental principles of the EU, allowing its citizens to live, work, and study in any EU country without needing a work permit.
Most EU citizens don’t need a permit to work in Switzerland. Under the EU-Switzerland agreement on the free movement of persons, Swiss nationals are free to live and work in the EU, including Latvia.
Here’s a more detailed process for EU citizens to start working in Latvia:
Arrival in Latvia: As an EU citizen, you have the right to enter Latvia with a valid travel document. You can stay in Latvia without registering your residence for up to three months from the day of entry.
Find a Job: Secure a job in Latvia. Once you have a job, your employer will register you in the State Revenue Service as a taxpayer and procure a taxpayer number.
Register Your Residence: If you plan to stay in Latvia for more than three months, you need to register your residence with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA). To receive the registration certificate, you must be employed, self-employed, or a student in Latvia, have financial means to sustain yourself, and have a document from another EU country that assesses rights to receive emergency medical assistance in Latvia (for example, an EHIC card).
Declare Your Place of Residence: If you find a permanent place of residence in Latvia, you must declare your place of residence to the local council or the OCMA.
Permanent Residence: If you have been continuously residing in Latvia for 5 years, you are entitled to request a permanent residence certificate.
Remember to bring the following documents with you:
- Personal identification documents (passport, identification card)
- CV (curriculum vitae) translated into Latvian
- Education documents, recommendation letters
- Several copies of personal documents
- Certificates of marriage and children’s birth (if applicable)
- Several photos of yourself (3×4 cm standard document size)
- Your working contract or job invitation
- Credit cards
- EHIC card from your last country of residence and employment or other health insurance
- EU forms for social security rights issued by the country of your last employment
Please note that this information is subject to change and it’s always a good idea to check the latest regulations before making any decisions.
Non-EU citizens
However, for non-EU citizens, understanding the visa and residence permit requirements is crucial for long-term employment.
Temporary Residence Permit: Your First Step
For non-EU citizens seeking employment in Latvia, the journey begins with a Temporary Residence Permit. This permit can be obtained under several conditions, such as having a labor contract with a company in Latvia, making a real estate investment of at least EUR 250,000, or incorporating a company in Latvia. The permit is valid for 1 to 3 years and can be extended.
The application process for a Temporary Residence Permit requires several documents, including a completed residence permit application form, a photo, confirmation of no criminal record, proof of subsistence/sufficient funds, a document confirming the planned place of residence in the Republic of Latvia, and a document confirming payment of the state fees.
Permanent Residence Permit: The Gateway to Long-Term Employment
After living in Latvia for at least 5 years with a Temporary Residence Permit, you can apply for a Permanent Residence Permit. This permit allows you to live and work in Latvia indefinitely, providing the stability needed for long-term employment.
The application process for a Permanent Residence Permit is similar to that of a Temporary Residence Permit. However, you must also prove that you have basic knowledge of the Latvian language, and have a legal source of income.
From Permanent Residence to Citizenship
Once you have obtained a Permanent Residence Permit, the path to Latvian citizenship becomes clearer. After ten years of legal residence under the title of a permanent resident, you can apply for citizenship in Latvia. This step opens up even more opportunities for long-term employment and integration into Latvian society.
Understanding Your Visa Options for Working in Latvia
Work Visa “D” Type
The work visa “D” type is a long-stay visa that allows non-EU citizens to work in Latvia. It’s usually paired with a work permit and a residence permit, and it’s valid for up to one year. This visa also allows you to stay in other Schengen member states for up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
Schengen Visa
The Schengen Visa is another option for non-EU citizens. While it’s primarily a tourist visa, it can also be used for business purposes. It allows you to stay in the Schengen area, which includes Latvia, for up to 90 days within a 180 day period. However, it doesn’t permit long-term employment.
Digital Nomad Visa
For those who work remotely, the Digital Nomad Visa can be an attractive option. While Latvia doesn’t currently offer a specific Digital Nomad Visa, many countries in the EU do, and Latvia may follow suit in the future. This type of visa allows non-EU citizens to live and work remotely in the issuing country for a specified period.
Remember, the specific visa or permit that’s best for you will depend on your individual circumstances, such as the type of work you’ll be doing, how long you plan to stay, and your country of origin. Always consult with a legal professional or the Latvian embassy in your home country to get the most accurate and updated information.
*Navigating the Challenges: Discrimination and Visa Suspensions (2023)
While the prospect of working in Latvia is exciting, it’s essential to be aware of potential challenges. For instance, allegations of discrimination against Russian nationals with permanent residence status in Latvia have been raised. Additionally, temporary visa suspensions for Russian citizens have been implemented by some European countries. These hurdles underscore the importance of staying informed and prepared.
Piktalent Services for Latvia
We can provide a range of services to make your internship experience unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, EU/EEA or Swiss nationals do not require a work permit to work in Latvia due to the EU’s freedom of movement principle.
EU citizens need to arrive in Latvia, find a job, register their residence if staying longer than three months, declare their place of residence, and can apply for permanent residence after 5 years.
EU citizens should bring identification documents, CV, education documents, personal documents, marriage and birth certificates (if applicable), photos, work contract, credit cards, EHIC card, and EU forms for social security rights.
Non-EU citizens need a Temporary Residence Permit to start, which can be extended. After 5 years, they can apply for a Permanent Residence Permit. After 10 years of legal residence, they can apply for Latvian citizenship.
Non-EU citizens can opt for a Work Visa “D” Type, Schengen Visa, or potentially a Digital Nomad Visa. The best option depends on individual circumstances.
Potential challenges include allegations of discrimination against Russian nationals and temporary visa suspensions for Russian citizens. It’s important to stay informed and prepared.
