Work permits in Latvia

Foreign nationals wishing to work in Latvia need a work permit, which is a vital document that allows them to legally engage in employment within the country. The process of obtaining a work permit in Latvia follows strict regulations and requires detailed preparation. This guide provides all the essential information for securing a work permit in Latvia.

Types of Work Permits in Latvia

There are different types of work permits available in Latvia, each suited for specific categories of foreign workers:

Temporary Work Permit (Type D Visa or Temporary Residence Permit): For those planning to work in Latvia for up to one year.
Permanent Residence Permit: Issued after five years of continuous stay in Latvia on a temporary permit.

Requirements for Obtaining a Work Permit

To qualify for a work permit, a foreign national must meet several requirements:

Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Latvian employer.
Proof of Qualifications: Documents verifying the candidate’s professional skills and suitability for the position.
Health Insurance: Insurance coverage for the entire duration of the work permit.

The Application Process

The process of obtaining a work permit in Latvia involves several important steps:

Document Preparation: Gather essential documents such as your passport, proof of qualifications, health insurance, and the job offer.
Application Submission: Submit your application to the Latvian Migration Service or through a diplomatic mission abroad.
Awaiting a Decision: Processing times can vary, from several weeks to a few months.

Rights and Obligations of Foreign Workers

Upon receiving a work permit, foreign workers in Latvia are required to:

Comply with all Latvian laws and tax regulations.
The employer must honor the terms of the labor contract and provide all social guarantees as required by law.

Renewal and Changes to Work Permits

Work permits can be renewed if the initial conditions remain unchanged. However, if the employee changes jobs or professions, a new permit must be obtained.

Table: Key Documents for Work Permit Application

Document	Description
Passport	Valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
Job Offer	Official contract or offer letter from the Latvian employer.
Proof of Qualifications	Certificates, diplomas, and other professional credentials.
Health Insurance	Valid insurance for the entire period of stay in Latvia.
Visa Application	Completed application form for a work permit.

Who Can Work in Latvia?

Latvia offers employment opportunities for foreign nationals under different categories:

1. EU, EEA, and Swiss Citizens

Citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland can work in Latvia without a work permit. However, they must register with the Latvian Migration Service within three months of their stay.

2. Third-Country Nationals

Non-EU/EEA citizens require both a work permit and a residence permit to work in Latvia. The employer must prove that no suitable candidate from the EU or Latvia could fill the position.

How to Apply for a Latvia Work Visa

Third-country nationals wishing to work in Latvia need to follow these steps:

Confirm Job Offer: Obtain a valid job offer from a Latvian employer.
Get a Work Permit: The employer submits a work permit application on behalf of the employee.
Apply for a Work Visa: Submit the necessary documents to the Latvian embassy in your country.
Await a Decision: Processing times vary but can take from several weeks to a few months.
Arrive in Latvia: Register with the local Migration Service upon arrival to complete the process.

Work Visa Requirements in Latvia

The following key requirements must be met to obtain a work visa:

Job Offer: A job offer from a Latvian employer, confirmed by the inability to fill the position with local talent.
Work Permit: Issued by the Latvian Migration Service.
Professional Qualifications: Proof of relevant qualifications and experience.
Health Insurance: A valid insurance policy covering the entire stay.
Adequate Financial Resources: Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay.
Completed Application: A completed visa application form and required documents, including a no-criminal-record certificate.

Long-Stay Visa Types for Working in Latvia

There are various types of long-stay visas available for foreign nationals working in Latvia:

1. Employment Visa

This visa is for foreign nationals with a job offer from a Latvian employer. It requires a work permit before application and includes submitting documents like an employment contract, proof of qualifications, and health insurance.

2. Entrepreneur Visa

Entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals can apply for this visa. It requires a business plan, proof of financial resources, and company registration in Latvia.

3. Intra-Company Transfer Visa

Employees transferred from an international company to its Latvian branch can apply for this visa. It requires proof of employment status and a letter from the employer.

4. EU Blue Card

Highly qualified professionals can apply for an EU Blue Card, requiring a university degree, professional experience, and a job offer with a salary above a certain threshold.

Who Needs a Latvia Employment Visa?

While EU/EEA and Swiss citizens do not need a work visa, third-country nationals must follow the process to obtain a work visa and permit. Highly qualified professionals can opt for an EU Blue Card, while intra-company transfers also require special visas.

Understanding the visa requirements and legal framework for working in Latvia is essential for successful employment. Consulting legal experts and preparing the necessary documentation ahead of time ensures a smoother process.

1. Citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland

Citizens of EU, EEA member states and Switzerland have the right to free movement and employment in Latvia without the need to obtain a work visa. The procedure is maximally simplified for them:

Residence registration: Upon arrival in Latvia, they are obliged to register with the Migration Service if they plan to stay in the country for more than three months.
Residence permit: If an EU or EEA national plans to stay for a longer period of time, they will also need to apply for a residence permit, but this is a formality and does not require a work visa.

2. Third-country nationals

For citizens of countries that are not part of the EU, EEA or Switzerland, working in Latvia requires a work visa and work permit. Citizens of all other countries fall into this category, including such countries as the USA, Russia, China, India and others.

Need for a job offer: Before applying for a work visa, third-country nationals must receive a job offer from a Latvian employer.
Work permit: The employer must apply for a work permit for the foreign employee, which is a prerequisite for applying for a visa.
D-visa: After obtaining a work permit, third-country nationals must apply for a D-visa at the Latvian consulate in their home country.

3. Employees transferred within the company

Employees of international companies who are transferred to the Latvian division also need a work visa if they are not EU, EEA or Swiss citizens.

Confirmation of transfer: The company must provide documents confirming the transfer of the employee to Latvia.
Visa application process: Employees transferring internally must follow the standard visa application process, which includes obtaining a work permit.

4. Highly qualified specialists

For highly qualified specialists from third countries, Latvia offers the possibility of obtaining an EU Blue Card. This is a special type of permit that simplifies the employment process for highly qualified specialists.

Qualification requirements: Higher education and significant work experience in the relevant field.
Minimum salary: A job offer with a salary above a certain level is required to obtain an EU Blue Card.

A work visa to Latvia is required for most foreign nationals, with the exception of EU, EEA and Swiss nationals. Understanding the procedures and requirements related to obtaining a work visa is a key factor for successful employment in Latvia. Applicants are advised to carefully prepare all necessary documents and consult with legal experts to avoid mistakes and speed up the visa application process.

How to Apply for a Latvia Work Visa?

A work visa to Latvia is required for third-country nationals who wish to be employed in Latvia. The process of applying for a work visa involves multiple legal steps and requires a complete set of documents for submission.

1. Preparation of a Work Proposal

The first step is securing a job offer from a Latvian employer. The employer must formally confirm the need to hire a foreign employee by showing that the position cannot be filled by Latvian or EU citizens.

2. Obtaining a Work Permit

After receiving a job offer, you must apply for a work permit. This is required for all non-EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens.

Application from the employer: The employer submits an application to the Latvian Citizenship and Migration Department, providing details of the job, the employee’s qualifications, and the need for foreign expertise.
Application processing: Processing can take several weeks, after which a work permit is issued, enabling the next step: applying for a visa.

3. Collection of Necessary Documents

To apply for a work visa, a comprehensive set of documents is required:

Completed visa application form: The form must be filled out in English or Latvian and signed by the applicant.
Valid passport: The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay in Latvia.
Photographs: Ensure photos meet the visa document requirements.
Health insurance: Insurance must cover all medical costs during your stay in Latvia.
Proof of qualifications: Diplomas, certificates, and documents proving your eligibility for the job are required.
Financial solvency proof: Bank statements or other financial documents to show that you can support yourself in Latvia.
Work permit: A copy or original of the work permit issued by the Latvian authorities.

4. Applying for a Visa

Once all documents are ready, you must apply for a work visa (type D) at the Latvian consulate or embassy in your home country.

Appointment scheduling: It’s advisable to book an appointment in advance to avoid delays.
Submitting documents: Documents must be submitted in person, and biometric data may be required.

5. Waiting for a Decision

Visa processing times vary but generally range from a few weeks to a few months. The consulate may call you in for an interview to clarify application details.

6. Obtaining a Visa and Entering Latvia

Once the visa is approved, the applicant can enter Latvia and begin work. Upon arrival, registration with the local Migration Service is required, along with applying for a temporary residence permit if needed.

Required Documents for a Latvia Employment Visa

Accurate document preparation is critical for securing a Latvia work visa. Below is a detailed list of required documents for the application process:

1. Valid Passport

Your passport must meet the following requirements:

Validity period: It must be valid for at least three months after the planned stay.
Blank pages: At least two blank pages are needed for visa stamps.
Copies: Include copies of personal information pages and visa stamps.

2. Completed Visa Application Form

The application form must be filled out in English or Latvian, detailing personal information, job details, and the purpose of your visit.

3. Photos

Submit two recent colour photos that meet the following requirements:

Size: 35×45 mm.
Background: Light, solid colour background.
Quality: High-quality, glare-free photos.

4. Work Authorisation

A work permit, issued by the Latvian Migration Service, must be included in your application.

5. Labour Contract or Job Offer

You need to provide a copy of your employment contract or an official job offer, including details of the position, salary, and working conditions.

6. Health Insurance

Your health insurance must cover at least EUR 30,000 in medical expenses during your stay in Latvia, including repatriation and hospitalisation.

7. Proof of Financial Solvency

You must prove you have sufficient funds to live in Latvia. This can be done through:

Bank statements for the last 3-6 months.
An employer’s letter confirming financial responsibility for your stay.

8. Documents Confirming Qualifications

Depending on the job, you need to submit:

Educational diplomas and certificates.
Recommendation letters from previous employers.
Certificates for any additional courses (if applicable).

9. Criminal Record Certificate

A certificate proving you have no criminal record may be required. It must be translated into Latvian or English and notarized.

10. Proof of Residence

You must submit documents proving you have accommodation in Latvia, such as:

A tenancy agreement.
Hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a Latvian resident.

Where to Apply for a Latvia Work Visa?

Applications for Latvia work visas are handled at consular offices and visa centres. Choose the appropriate location based on your country of residence:

1. Consular Offices of Latvia

Submit your visa application at the Latvian embassy or consulate in your home country. Find a list of consular offices on the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

2. Visa Application Centres

Some countries have accredited visa centres that can accept applications on behalf of consulates. These centres often provide additional services, such as help with paperwork and photography.

3. Online Applications and Pre-Registration

Many consulates allow applicants to fill out visa forms online and schedule appointments. This can streamline the process.

Processing Time for Latvia Work Visa

The processing time for a Latvia work visa can vary, generally taking 10-30 business days for a type D visa. However, in more complex cases, it could take longer.

Application review: Consulates thoroughly review submitted documents, verify the legitimacy of the job offer, and make decisions accordingly.
Security checks: Additional background checks may be required in some cases, affecting processing times.

Expedited Processing

In rare cases, expedited processing may be available, although it usually requires additional fees and documentation proving the urgency.

Taxes in Latvia for Foreign Workers

Foreign workers in Latvia are subject to local tax regulations. It’s essential to understand the tax system for proper financial planning:

1. Tax Residency

Tax residents are those who stay in Latvia for more than 183 days in a calendar year or have vital interests (e.g., family, property) in Latvia. Tax residents are taxed on worldwide income, while non-residents are only taxed on Latvia-sourced income.

2. Personal Income Tax

Latvia applies a progressive income tax:

20% for income up to €20,004 per year.
23% for income between €20,005 and €78,100.
31% for income over €78,100 per year.

3. Social Contributions

Employers and employees must contribute to Latvia’s social security system:

Employees pay 10.50% of their salary.
Employers contribute 23.59% of the employee’s salary.

4. Double Taxation Treaties

Latvia has signed treaties to avoid double taxation. Consult with a tax advisor to ensure proper compliance with both Latvian and home country regulations.

Understanding Latvia’s tax obligations and compliance will ensure you avoid penalties and financial complications while working in the country.

Minimum wage in Latvia

The minimum wage is an important instrument of state policy aimed at ensuring social equality and protecting workers from unfair wages. In Latvia, as in other European Union countries, the minimum wage is set at the state level and is reviewed annually depending on economic conditions and inflation.

1. Current minimum wage rate

As of 1 January 2023, the minimum wage in Latvia is set at EUR 620 per month before taxes. This indicator applies to all employees, regardless of industry and form of employment, and is mandatory for all employers in the territory of the country.

Hourly rate: With a 40-hour working week, which is the standard in Latvia, the minimum hourly rate is approximately €3.58 before taxes.

2. Indexation and revision of the minimum wage

The minimum wage in Latvia is reviewed annually by the government taking into account economic factors such as inflation rate, labour productivity and general economic situation in the country.

Review procedure: The review process includes consultations with trade unions and employers, as well as analysing statistical data. The decision to raise the minimum wage is taken by the government and enshrined in legislation.

3. Impact on business and economy

The minimum wage has a significant impact on various aspects of the economy and business environment in Latvia:

Impact on small and medium-sized businesses: For SMEs, especially in regions with low economic activity, an increase in the minimum wage may lead to higher labour costs. This may affect the competitiveness of companies and their ability to expand.
Inflationary impact: Minimum wage increases often lead to an increase in the purchasing power of the population, which in turn can provoke inflationary pressure on the prices of goods and services.
Social implications: The minimum wage is an important instrument of social policy aimed at reducing poverty and inequality. Its increase contributes to improving the living standards of the most vulnerable segments of the population.

4. Legislative framework and compliance monitoring

The minimum wage in Latvia is regulated by the Labour Code and other regulations. Employers are obliged to pay their employees at least the minimum wage. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in serious legal consequences, including fines and penalties.

Control and liability: The Latvian State Labour Inspectorate monitors compliance with the minimum wage legislation. Employees who encounter violations have the right to apply to the inspectorate or to court to protect their rights.

5. Exceptions and special conditions

In some cases Latvian legislation provides for exceptions to the general rule on the minimum wage. For example:

Seasonal workers and temporary contracts: Seasonal workers and persons employed on temporary contracts may be subject to separate wage conditions agreed upon in collective agreements or sectoral agreements.
Young workers and trainees: For young workers under 18 years of age and trainees, the minimum wage may be lower than the established level, but this requires special agreements and justifications.

The minimum wage in Latvia is an important element of the state’s social and economic policy. It provides basic protection of employees against low wages and contributes to the improvement of living standards. For businesses, the minimum wage represents both a challenge and an opportunity to adapt to changing economic conditions. It is important for employers to strictly comply with the legal requirements to avoid legal risks and maintain stable labour relations with employees.