Latvia

The Latvia Investor Visa offers an impressive package of advantages, making it stand out in the competitive landscape of European residency programs.

One of the most important benefits is affordability. Few European residency schemes can match Latvia’s entry requirements. With just €50,000 in business capital investment, entrepreneurs can secure long-term residency rights in the EU. The real estate route, at €250,000, is also significantly more cost-effective than similar programs in Greece or Cyprus.
A second major advantage is mobility within Europe. Latvian residency allows visa-free travel across the 29 countries of the Schengen Zone. For global entrepreneurs, this means effortless movement for business meetings, conferences, and new opportunities, while families can enjoy stress-free travel for leisure across Europe’s most desirable destinations.

The program also provides a clear path to citizenship. Investors first receive a renewable residence permit valid for five years. After this, they may apply for permanent residency, and ultimately, Latvian citizenship if they meet the physical residency requirements. With citizenship comes an EU passport -  one of the most powerful in the world, unlocking work, study, and settlement rights across the entire Union.

Another attractive feature is the fast processing time. Unlike some programs that take up to a year, Latvian investor visa applications are typically processed within two to four months. This speed allows investors to establish themselves and begin enjoying the benefits almost immediately.
Furthermore, the program extends to family members, meaning spouses and dependent children under 18 can be included in the application. Families can build their futures together in a safe, affordable, and well-connected EU country.
Finally, Latvia offers a favorable business environment. With a competitive 20% corporate tax rate, a skilled and multilingual workforce, and increasing focus on high-tech industries, the country provides an excellent base for entrepreneurs wishing to establish or expand their companies within the EU.

Key Highlights of the Program

The Latvian Golden Visa is often considered one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, and for good reason. It combines accessibility with flexibility, offering one of the lowest entry points in the EU at €50,000. The visa provides residency rights not only in Latvia but also the freedom to travel across the Schengen Zone without additional visas.

The program is highly family-oriented, allowing dependents to be included under a single application, and boasts a straightforward application process with decisions typically made within a few months. Importantly, it also opens a clear route to long-term residency and eventual EU citizenship, which remains the ultimate prize for many investors.

For business-minded individuals, Latvia’s stable economy, strategic geographic position, and investment-friendly policies make it an attractive base to operate within the EU. When combined, these features create a compelling package that rivals more expensive residency-by-investment programs elsewhere in Europe.

The Latvia Investor Visa, often called the Latvia Golden Visa, is a residency-by-investment program designed to attract foreign capital into the country. It provides investors with the opportunity to obtain a residence permit in exchange for either a qualifying business investment or a real estate purchase.

The appeal of this program lies in its accessibility. While other EU nations require six-figure sums well above half a million euros, Latvia sets its minimum at €50,000 for business investments and €250,000 for real estate. This makes it one of the most cost-effective entry points into Europe for global investors.

By securing a Latvian residence permit, applicants not only gain the right to live in Latvia, but also enjoy the wider advantages of mobility across the Schengen Area and potential access to EU citizenship in the future.

Applying for the Latvian Golden Visa involves several steps, but the process is far simpler and faster than many other EU schemes.

The first step is choosing the investment route. Applicants may either make a qualifying business investment of €50,000 (plus a €10,000 state contribution) or purchase real estate worth at least €250,000 (plus a 5% state fee). The chosen investment must be maintained for as long as residency is held.

Once the investment decision is made, applicants gather the necessary documents, including passport copies, health insurance, proof of funds, and background certificates. For real estate investors, additional paperwork confirming property value and tax compliance will also be required.

Applications are then submitted to the Latvian embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of residence. From here, the waiting period begins - usually no more than two to four months.

If approved, the applicant receives a residence permit valid for five years. This permit can be renewed as long as the investment is maintained, and after the initial five-year period, the applicant may apply for permanent residency. Those who comply with residency obligations may later apply for Latvian citizenship and, in turn, an EU passport.

Required Documents

Applicants must provide the following documentation:

• Completed residence permit questionnaire
• Full copy of passport
• Passport-size photographs (3 x 4 cm)
• Certificate of no criminal record
• Proof of sufficient financial means
• Health insurance policy
• Marriage certificate and/or children’s birth certificates (if applicable)
• Proof of payment of state fees

For real estate investors, further documents include: proof of payment through non-cash transfer, a tax clearance certificate confirming no property tax debts, and an appraisal certificate verifying the market value of the property.

Because immigration laws can change, it is strongly recommended to consult with official sources or a qualified advisor before applying.

Eligibility Criteria

The Latvian Golden Visa is accessible, but applicants must meet certain requirements to ensure that only suitable candidates benefit from the program.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold citizenship from outside the EU and EEA. They are required to present a clean criminal record and demonstrate they have comprehensive health insurance coverage.

Another key requirement is the ability to prove sufficient financial means to support themselves and their families without relying on the Latvian government. Currently, the thresholds are:

• €15,480 annually for a single applicant
• €20,640 for a couple
• €22,188 for a couple with one child

These conditions ensure that applicants are financially stable and able to integrate smoothly into Latvian society. Meeting these criteria, alongside fulfilling the investment obligation, makes applicants eligible for a residence permit.

Latvia, a picturesque Baltic nation and proud member of the European Union and Eurozone, offers far more than just scenic beauty. It is strategically located at the crossroads of Northern and Eastern Europe, making it an important hub for trade, transport, and innovation. Investors are drawn to Latvia for its growing economy, pro-business environment, and relatively low cost of living compared to Western Europe.

The capital city, Riga, is not only known for its medieval Old Town and vibrant cultural life, but also as a thriving innovation hub hosting startups, fintech companies, and international conferences. With robust infrastructure, access to EU funding, and a highly skilled workforce, Latvia is quickly establishing itself as an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors.

For families, Latvia offers a safe and welcoming environment, excellent schools and universities, and a healthcare system that ranks well within the EU. Add to this the country’s breathtaking nature -  from sandy beaches on the Baltic Sea to pristine forests and lakes - and Latvia becomes a well-rounded destination for both business and lifestyle.