EU/EEA Citizens and the Latvia Visa
If you're an EU or EEA citizen, you don't need a visa to enter Latvia. Why? Because Latvia is part of the Schengen Area, a free-movement zone covering 26 European countries. This freedom of movement lets you visit Latvia for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period, with no extra formalities.
Good to know
EU/EEA citizens can move freely within the Schengen Area without a visa for short tourist or business stays.
Understanding the Difference Between a Visa and a Residence Permit
It's crucial to distinguish between a visa and a residence permit. A Schengen visa is a travel document allowing entry and a stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days. A residence permit, on the other hand, is needed if you want to settle for a longer period, particularly to work or run a business in Latvia.
Here's a simple comparison:
| Schengen Visa | Residence Permit |
|---|---|
| Short stay (max 90 days) | Long stay (more than 90 days) |
| Not needed for EU/EEA citizens | Needed to live or work |
| Tourism, business | Work, entrepreneurship |
Non-EU Nationals: Schengen and Long-Stay Visas
For non-EU nationals (including citizens of the UK, US, Canada, Australia and most other countries), two types of visa apply to Latvia:
- Schengen visa (type C): allows a stay of less than 90 days. Ideal for tourism, business or family visits. Nationals of many countries (including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Japan and others) can currently enter visa-free for short stays under Schengen rules, though this can change, always check current requirements for your nationality.
- Long-stay visa (type D): needed to settle in Latvia for more than three months. This visa is essential for anyone wanting to work or start a business.
Here are the official fees applicable for a visa or residence document in Latvia (Schengen Area):
| Document type | Indicative price | Validity | Who it's for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schengen short-stay visa (type C) | €90 (adult) | Up to 90 days / 180 days | Non-EU nationals not exempt |
| Schengen short-stay visa, children 6-12 | €45 | Up to 90 days | Children of non-EU nationals |
| Schengen short-stay visa, children under 6 | Free | Up to 90 days | Young children |
| Long-stay visa (type D) | ~€60 to €100 depending on consulate | 3 to 12 months | Relocation, work, entrepreneurship |
| Temporary residence permit (TRP) | Administrative fees + registry tax (variable) | 1 to 5 years, renewable | Non-EU residents settling long-term |
| EU/EEA citizens | €0, no visa required | Unlimited (free movement) | Tourism, business, relocation |
Indicative 2026 fees (EU Schengen visa scale), to confirm with the relevant Latvian consulate at the time of application. If you're considering a more structured investment, see our guide on the investor visa in Latvia.
Residence Rights for Entrepreneurs in Latvia
EU/EEA entrepreneurs benefit from free movement within the EU to settle in Latvia. For a longer-term move, it's advisable to apply for a residence permit. This process can seem complex, but it's simplified for EU citizens thanks to European legislation that supports entrepreneurial mobility. Non-EU entrepreneurs will typically need to apply through the type D long-stay visa and residence permit route described above.
By settling in Latvia, you benefit from a number of advantages: an attractive tax regime, modern infrastructure, and easy access to Scandinavian and Baltic markets.
The Relocation Process for an Entrepreneur
Here are the key steps to settle in Latvia as an entrepreneur:
- Step 1: Assess your project and its specific needs for a successful move.
- Step 2: Register a company in Latvia, for example a SIA (Latvia's equivalent of a limited liability company).
- Step 3: Obtain a residence permit if you plan to stay more than 90 days.
- Step 4: Use support services for the administrative and tax formalities.
To make this process smoother, plenty of English-speaking services offer tailored support.
Ready to explore the opportunities Latvia offers for your business? Contact our team for tailored, secure support.
Tax and Business Advantages in Latvia
Latvia is a popular destination for entrepreneurs thanks to its favourable tax framework. By forming a company in Latvia, you can benefit from one of the most competitive corporate tax regimes in Europe. Dividends can also be reinvested in the company with no immediate taxation, a strategic opportunity for those looking to grow their business without being held back by excessive tax charges.
Beyond the tax advantages, Latvia offers a dynamic market with easy access to other Baltic and Nordic countries. This strategic geographic position lets you reach a diverse client base and access varied resources.
Streamlined Administrative Steps to Form a Company
Forming a company in Latvia is a relatively simple, fast process. Typically, forming a SIA can be completed in just a few days, provided all the necessary documents are supplied.
- Registration: your company is registered with the Latvian companies register. It can be done online, which greatly simplifies the process for foreign entrepreneurs.
- Share capital: the minimum share capital required for a SIA is modest, offering an accessible entry point for new businesses.
- Accounting: Latvia offers competitive accounting services, with a transparent, modern tax system.
These streamlined steps let entrepreneurs focus on growing their business rather than complex administrative procedures.
Settling In and Life in Latvia for International Entrepreneurs
Settling in Latvia isn't just about economic advantages, it's also a rewarding personal adventure. Latvia is known for its high quality of life, with a cost of living lower than many other European capitals.
International entrepreneurs will find a welcoming community and a culture that values openness and exchange. Public services, including healthcare and education, are of good quality, and most Latvians speak English, making integration easier for expats.
For those looking to settle with family, Latvia offers a safe living environment with plenty of parks, cultural activities and easy access to nature, adding to its appeal for a life in harmony with the environment.
In short, choosing Latvia for your entrepreneurial project means opting for a tax-friendly environment, simplified access to European markets, and a rewarding quality of life. Ready to explore the opportunities Latvia offers for your business? Contact our team for tailored, secure support.