Overview
Since becoming the 18th member of the Eurozone in 2014, Latvia has emerged as an attractive destination for investors with its low tax rates and promising job market compared to other EU countries.
Often referred to as the "Paris of the North," the capital city Riga is the region's leading hub for culture, education, finance, trade, and industry, with a population of approximately 650,000. Investors who obtain Latvia's Golden Visa enjoy access to a variety of privileges and opportunities.
Benefits of Latvian Residency
Holders of a Latvian residency permit can travel freely within EU countries.
The initial residency permit is valid for 5 years. If the resident stays at least 6 months per year in Latvia, the permit can be converted into permanent residency.a
Latvia offers excellent standards in education and overall quality of life.
The minimum investment required for Latvian residency is €50,000, and the application process can be completed within 3 months - making it one of the fastest and most affordable programs available.
Who Can Apply for Latvian Residency?
INVESTOR
- Applicants over the age of 18
CHILDREN
- Children under the age of 18 of the applicant or their spouse
SPOUSE
- The legally married spouse or registered partner of the applicant
Latvian Residency Application Requirements
Minimum Investment: A minimum investment of €50,000 must be made into an active and operational Latvian company. The company must have an annual turnover of €10 million or more, or it must employ at least 50 people.
Note: The €50,000 capital investment must remain in the company throughout the residency period.
Additional Government Fee: A government contribution of €10,000 is required at the time of application.
Total Costs: Including legal representation, administrative fees, professional consultancy, and state charges, the total cost is approximately €29,000.
Real estate investment option:
Minimum Investment: €250,000
Government Fee: 5% of the property's value
Conditions: Property must be held for at least five years
Government bonds option:
Minimum Investment: €250,000
Government Fee: One-time payment of €38,000
Conditions: Bonds are non-interest-bearing and must be held for five years
Key Information
LOCATION
Situated along the Baltic Sea, Latvia shares borders with Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus.
CAPITAL
Riga
TIME ZONE
GMT+2
TOTAL AREA
64,589 km2
LANGUAGE
Latvian
CURRENCY
Euro (€ / EUR)
Why Latvia?
Schengen Zone Access Without a Visa
Latvian residency permit holders can travel to 26 European countries visa-free.
No Residency Requirement
There is no mandatory physical presence requirement in Latvia to renew your residency permit.
PROGRAM MAP
141
Countries accessible without a visa
20
Countries requiring a visa
25
Countries requiring an e-visa
Frequently Asked Questions
The Latvia Golden Visa is a program that grants foreign investors the right to live, work, and study in Latvia through specific investment options. It also provides freedom of movement across the Schengen Area.
A minimum of €50,000 must be invested into an actively operating Latvian company.
Yes, Golden Visa holders can travel freely within all Schengen countries.
Free Movement: Visa-free access to Schengen countries.
Fast Processing: Residency permit granted within 2–3 months after investment.
Affordability: Residency with a minimum €50,000 investment.
Family Inclusion: Spouse and children under 18 are eligible for residency.
The main applicant’s spouse and children under the age of 18 can be included.
Latvia offers a higher standard of living for a comparatively lower investment.
Business Investment: Minimum €50,000 in a Latvian company, plus a one-time €10,000 government fee.
Real Estate Investment: Purchase of real estate worth at least €250,000 in Riga or designated areas, with applicable property tax.
Government Bonds: Purchase of government bonds worth at least €300,000.
The initial visa is typically valid for 5 years. If the investment is maintained, the permit can be renewed. After five years of residency, permanent residency may be applied for. The permit is unlimited for main applicants (parents), while children are covered until age 24.
Yes, Latvia offers several tax advantages for investors, including low tax rates and a business-friendly environment as part of the European Union.
Yes, real estate investment is a valid route, provided the property is located in Riga or eligible municipalities and is worth at least €250,000.