Latvia Visa for Indians 2026: Fees, Process & Types

Latvia follows standard Schengen visa categories. Understanding which type you need is the first step.

Schengen Tourist Visa (Type C) — Most Common

This is the standard visa for Indian travelers visiting Latvia for tourism, sightseeing, or short family visits. Latvia offers a unique Baltic experience — from Riga's UNESCO-listed Old Town and the world's highest concentration of Art Nouveau architecture to the beach town of Jurmala and the forests of Gauja National Park. For tourism-specific requirements, see our Latvia tourist visa guide.

Duration: Maximum 90 days in any 180-day period

Validity: Single, double, or multiple entry

Processing: Standard 10-15 working days

Activities allowed: Tourism, visiting friends and family, cultural events, attending concerts or exhibitions

Activities NOT allowed: Employment, paid work, studying beyond short courses

Schengen Business Visa (Type C)

Latvia's growing IT sector and position as a Baltic business hub make it an emerging destination for Indian professionals. Business visa applicants attending conferences, trade fairs, or corporate meetings in Riga typically need a business Schengen visa.

Key documents: Invitation letter from Latvian company, employer NOC, proof of business relationship. For complete details, see our business visa guide.

Processing: Often similar to tourist — 10-15 working days with a strong Latvian company invitation

 Business Invitation Letter Requirements

The invitation letter is the single most important document for a business visa. A weak letter is the 1 reason business applications get delayed or refused. Your invitation letter must contain:

Pro tip: If you have attended previous Latvian trade fairs or business events, mention the dates in the invitation letter. Consulates value repeat business relationships — it demonstrates genuine intent.

Student Visa (Type D)

Latvia offers affordable European education with programs in English, particularly at the University of Latvia, Riga Technical University, and the Baltic International Academy. The student visa allows part-time work during studies. For detailed requirements, see our visa requirements guide.

Duration: 90 days initially (then residence permit required)

Processing: 30-60 days

Key documents: Admission letter from accredited Latvian institution, proof of accommodation, financial means, health insurance

Work Visa (Type D)

Latvia operates a work permit system for non-EU nationals. The employer must obtain a work permit before the visa application. Processing takes 30-60 days. Latvia also offers the EU Blue Card for highly skilled workers.

Duration: 90 days initially (then residence permit required)

Key documents: Work permit, employment contract, employer invitation

Note: Work permit must be obtained before visa application

Airport Transit Visa (Type A)

Indian citizens transiting through Riga Airport to reach a non-Schengen destination may need an airport transit visa if they pass through international transit areas. Most Indian travelers do not need this if they have a valid Schengen visa.

Official Consular Fees

*INR figures approximate; confirm exact EUR-to-INR rate at the time of payment.*

Fee increase note: Consular fees at Latvian diplomatic missions abroad increased by 25% effective January 1, 2025. The current fee of EUR 90 reflects this increase.

VFS Global Service Charges

Fee Exemptions

The following categories are exempt from visa fees:

• Children under 6 years
• School pupils, students, postgraduate students, and accompanying teachers on educational trips
• Researchers traveling for scientific research
• Representatives of non-profit organizations aged 25 or younger attending seminars, conferences, sports, cultural, or educational events
• Close family members of EU/EEA nationals

Payment Methods

At VFS Global Centers:

• Cash (exact amount preferred)
• Debit/Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard)
• Demand Draft (in favor of VFS Global Services Pvt. Ltd.)

Important: All visa fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.

Meeting all documentation requirements is critical for visa approval. Latvia has a moderate rejection rate for Indian applicants, making proper documentation essential.

Core Documents (All Visa Types)

1. Valid Passport

• Issued within the last 10 years
• Valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area
• Contains at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps
• Original passport plus photocopy of the bio-data page
• Include all old passports with prior visas if applicable

2. Visa Application Form

• Completed online at the VFS Global website
• Printed and signed by the applicant
• Must match your passport details exactly
• All sections must be filled in capital letters

3. Passport-Size Photographs

• One recent color photograph (taken within the last 6 months)
• Size: 35mm x 45mm
• Background: White or light-colored
• Face coverage: 70-80% of the photo
• ICAO standards compliant
• No glasses, no headwear (except for religious reasons)

4. Travel Medical Insurance

• Minimum coverage: €30,000 (approximately ₹27 lakh)
• Valid across all Schengen countries
• Covers: Medical emergencies, hospitalization, repatriation
• Validity: Must cover your entire stay in the Schengen area
• Must explicitly state coverage for the entire Schengen area — a policy summary is not enough
• Learn more about travel insurance requirements in our complete guide.

5. Proof of Accommodation

• Hotel bookings with confirmation numbers
• Hostel reservations with payment proof
• Invitation letter from host if staying with friends or family
• Must cover every night of your stay in the Schengen area

6. Flight Itinerary

• Round-trip flight reservation (you do not need to purchase tickets before visa approval)
• Shows entry and exit dates from the Schengen area
• Includes flight numbers and booking reference (real PNR)

7. Proof of Financial Means

Acceptable documents:

• Bank statements (last 3-6 months showing regular transactions, stamped originals)
• Salary slips (last 3 months)
• Income Tax Returns (last 2 years)
• Sponsorship letter (if sponsored, with sponsor's bank statements)

Practical recommendation: While the official minimum is EUR 14/day, showing significantly more than this minimum presents a much stronger application. Maintain a balance of ₹3-5 lakh over 3-6 months with consistent salary credits.

8. Cover Letter

A detailed letter explaining:

• Purpose of your visit to Latvia
• Day-by-day itinerary
• How you heard about Latvia or why you want to visit
• Accommodation details
• Financial arrangements
• Ties to India (reasons you will return)

Cover letter tip: Mention specific Latvian attractions. Consulates appreciate applicants who show genuine interest. Reference Riga's Art Nouveau district, the Central Market, Jurmala beach town, or the Latvian National Opera. This shows you have done real research. Learn more about why visas get rejected to strengthen your application.

9. Employment or Business Proof

*For employed individuals:*

• Employment letter on company letterhead
• Must include: Position, salary, leave approval dates, return date
• Last 3 months' salary slips

*For self-employed or business owners:*

• Business registration certificate
• GST registration
• Income Tax Returns (last 2 years)

*For students:*

• School or college ID card
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from institution
• Parent's sponsorship letter with financial documents

10. Proof of Residence in India

• Aadhaar card
• Voter ID
• Utility bills
• Must show residence in India for at least 6 months

Purpose-Specific Additional Documents

For Business Visa:

• Invitation letter from Latvian company
• Business registration of the inviting company
• Previous business relationship proof

For Family Visit:

• Invitation letter from host in Latvia
• Host's residence permit or citizenship proof
• Relationship proof (birth certificate, marriage certificate)

For Student Visa:

• Admission letter from accredited Latvian institution
• Proof of tuition payment or scholarship
• Financial means proof for duration of studies

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type

Identify the correct visa category based on your travel purpose:

• Tourism: Short-stay tourist visa (Type C)
• Business: Short-stay business visa (Type C)
• Study: Long-stay student visa (Type D)
• Work: Long-stay work visa (Type D)

Critical rule: Latvia must be your primary destination (where you spend the most nights) or the first point of entry if visiting multiple Schengen countries. If you are spending more time in another country, you must apply to that country's embassy instead. For a complete overview of Schengen travel rules, see our Schengen visa guide.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Work through the complete checklist above. Ensure:

• All documents are original (with photocopies)
• Documents in languages other than English, Latvian, or Russian are translated
• Bank statements show sufficient funds
• Travel insurance meets Schengen requirements

Step 3: Complete Online Application Form

Visit the VFS Global Latvia website: visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/lva

• Register or login to your account
• Fill out the visa application form accurately
• Print the completed form
• Sign the form in the designated spaces

Step 4: Book an Appointment or Walk In

Walk-in Facility: Latvia visa applications are accepted on a walk-in basis at VFS Global centres across India. You can visit the centre without a prior appointment during working hours (typically 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM). However, booking an appointment is recommended during peak travel seasons.

To book an appointment:

• Visit VFS Global Latvia portal
• Select "Book an Appointment"
• Choose your nearest VFS center
• Select date and time slot

Tip: Latvia appointments are typically available within days, not weeks. Unlike France or Germany, you will not face long waits for slots.

Step 5: Pay Visa Fees

Payment can be made online during appointment booking or at the VFS center (cash or card).

Step 6: Visit VFS Global Center

On the day of your appointment or walk-in:

• Arrive 15 minutes early
• Carry all original documents plus photocopies
• Submit your application at the counter
• Provide biometric data (fingerprints and digital photograph)
• Note: If you have provided biometrics for any Schengen visa in the last 59 months, you may be exempt
• Receive acknowledgment receipt with tracking number

Step 7: Attend Interview (if Required)

In some cases, the consulate may request a personal interview. If called:

• Be punctual
• Dress formally
• Answer honestly and confidently
• Carry all original documents

Step 8: Track Your Application

Track your visa status online at VFS Global tracking page using your reference number and passport number. Opt for SMS alerts (₹15) to receive status updates on your mobile.

Step 9: Collect Your Passport

Option 1: Self-Collection — Visit the same VFS center, carry your acknowledgment receipt

Option 2: Courier Delivery — Opt for courier service (₹50-100), passport delivered to your registered address

Step 10: Verify Your Visa

Upon receiving your passport, check:

• Visa sticker is correctly affixed
• Personal details are accurate
• Visa validity dates match your travel plans
• Number of entries (single, double, or multiple)
• Duration of stay

If you find any errors, contact VFS Global or the Latvian Embassy immediately.

Latvia visa applications are processed through VFS Global. Walk-in service is available at all centers.

Working hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM (closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays)

Email: info.latviaind@vfshelpline.com

Embassy of Latvia in India

Address: Embassy of the Republic of Latvia, B-8 Anand Niketan, New Delhi - 110021, India

Phone: +91-11-4985-9100

Email: embassy.india@mfa.gov.lv

Website: www2.mfa.gov.lv/en/newdelhi

Consular Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM (by appointment)

Note: Visa applications are NOT accepted directly at the embassy. All applications must be submitted through VFS Global centers.

When to Apply

The 90/180 Day Rule

You can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period. The 180-day period is a rolling window, not fixed. Use the European Commission's Schengen Calculator to check your allowed stay.

What Is the Latvia ETA?

The Electronic Travel Declaration (ETA) is a pre-arrival registration system introduced on September 1, 2025, under amendments to Article 4.4 of the Immigration Law. It is NOT a visa — it is a mandatory declaration separate from your Schengen visa.

Who Needs to Complete the ETA?

You DO need the ETA if:

• You are a third-country national WITHOUT a valid Schengen visa or residence permit issued by Latvia
• You hold a Schengen visa issued by ANOTHER country (France, Germany, Spain, etc.) and are traveling to Latvia on that visa

You do NOT need the ETA if:

• You hold a valid Schengen visa issued by Latvia itself
• You hold a valid residence permit issued by Latvia
• You are a citizen of an EU/EEA member state

Key clarification for Indians: If you apply for and receive a Latvia Schengen visa (issued by the Latvian embassy), you do NOT need to complete the ETA. If you already hold a Schengen visa issued by another country and are visiting Latvia on that visa, you DO need to submit the ETA.

How to Complete the ETA

1. Visit eta.gov.lv
2. Fill out the online form (available in English)
3. Submit at least 48 hours before arrival
4. Receive automatic email confirmation 48 hours after submission

Important: Free of charge, valid for one trip, must be completed by the traveler (not on behalf of others except minor children).

Understanding why applications get rejected helps you avoid common pitfalls. Based on publicly available Schengen visa statistics, Latvia has an approval rate of approximately 89-92% for Indian applicants.

Top Rejection Reasons

What to Do If Your Visa Is Rejected

1. Read the rejection letter carefully — it states the specific reason
2. Gather additional documents to address the issue
3. Reapply with corrected application (no waiting period required)
4. Consider appealing within 15 days of rejection
5. Learn more about common visa rejection reasons to strengthen your application.

Note: Visa fees are non-refundable even if rejected. Read our complete travel insurance requirements guide for more details.

Based on our work with Indian applicants for Latvia visas, here are patterns we observe:

Common Rejection Patterns:

• Bank statements showing sudden large deposits just before application
• Mismatch between stated income and ITR figures
• Vague cover letters that do not explain why Latvia specifically
• Insurance certificates that do not explicitly state EUR 30,000 coverage for the entire Schengen area

Processing Trends:

• Latvia applications are processed faster than most Schengen countries due to low application volume
• Walk-in slots are almost always available — no need to book weeks in advance
• Single-entry visas are most common for first-time applicants; multiple-entry requires strong travel history

Seasonal Demand Patterns:

• Peak applications March-June for summer travel
• Winter applications (November-February) process fastest
• December-January sees a spike for Christmas market travel

Frequently Missing Documents:

• Branch manager attestation on bank statements (stamp + signature)
• employer NOC with specific leave dates and return-to-work confirmation
• Day-by-day itinerary showing realistic travel times between cities

*Rejection rates based on publicly available Schengen visa statistics.*

Enter your details to get in touch with Expert Visa Consultant.

Phone: Pune: 020 49027000 | Dadar: 022 45830600 | Thane: 022 69814000

Email: inquiry@btwvisas.com