Latvia, with its stunning Gothic cathedrals, thousands of rivers and lakes, picturesque waterfalls, and lush forests covering over 50% of the country, beckons travelers from around the world. Latvia boasts diverse wildlife and is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. With the Latvia tourist visa, anyone can explore the natural beauty and rich culture of this Baltic gem.

Understanding Latvia Tourist Visa

The Latvia tourist visa, also referred to as the Latvia Schengen tourist visa, grants entry for tourism-related activities. This visa is typically issued for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period and is available as a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visa. As a Schengen country, this tourist permit allows you to travel within the Schengen region. However, if you receive a Limited Territory Validity (LTV) category visa, your travel may be restricted to specific countries.

How to Apply for Latvia Tourist Visa

The application process for a Latvia tourist visa is primarily conducted online, with document submission taking place offline. The Embassy of the Republic of Latvia serves as the issuing authority, and the application process has been outsourced to Visa Application Centers (VACs). Before commencing your application, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for tourist travel to Latvia. If you are eligible, follow these steps:

1. Gather Necessary Documents: Collect all required documents as per the embassy’s guidelines.

2. Complete Online Application Form: Visit the website of the Embassy of Latvia and fill out the Schengen application form. Clearly specify the purpose of your visit as “tourist.”

3. Schedule an Appointment: Book an appointment at one of the VACs located across India. You can schedule your appointment online through their portal or by contacting the respective VAC.

4. In-Person Submission: Attend the appointment in person with your documents, application confirmation, and fees. Biometric data will also be collected during this appointment.

Note that if you have previously submitted biometrics for any Schengen visa within the past 5 years, you are not required to submit them again. In such cases, you can choose to have a third party submit the application on your behalf. It is crucial to submit only genuine, original documents, as providing counterfeit or inaccurate information can lead to the rejection of your visa application, which can have serious consequences for future travel.

Eligibility for Latvia Tourist Visa

To be eligible for a Latvia tourist visa, you must meet specific criteria. Failure to meet these conditions may result in your visa application being rejected. In such cases, you should apply for the visa category that aligns with the purpose of your visit. Here are the essential eligibility requirements:

• You must be residing in the country from which you are applying for the visa. If you are a resident in a foreign country with a residence permit, you may apply at the embassy of that country.
• You must possess a valid passport.
• The primary purpose of your visit must be tourism-related activities.
• You must have sufficient funds to cover your expenses throughout your stay in Latvia.
• You should apply for the permit only if:
  • Latvia is your sole destination.
  • Latvia is one of your multiple Schengen destinations, with the majority of your time spent in Latvia.
  • If there is no main destination, Latvia must be your port of entry.

Documents Required for Latvia Tourist Visa

To ensure a successful application for a Latvia tourist visa, you must submit the following documents:

1. Valid Passport:

   • Must have at least 2 blank pages.
   • Passports older than 10 years are not accepted.
   • Should be valid for at least 6 months from your intended entry date.
   • Include any old passports, if applicable.

2. Covering Letter:

   • Must include the applicant’s details.
   • Clearly state the source of funds.
   • Specify the purpose and duration of the visit.
   • Should be signed by the applicant and addressed to the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia.

3. Travel Itinerary/Documents:

   • Detailed travel itinerary.
   • Round-trip flight booking.

4. Proof of Accommodation

5. Medical Travel Insurance:

   • Coverage of at least €30,000.

6. Proof of Occupation:

   • Proof of occupation, such as an employment letter or copy of a business license, etc.

7. Financial Documents:

   • Financial documents, including bank statements from the past 3 months, a copy of the passbook, and income tax returns (ITR), among others.

Photo Specification for Latvia Tourist Visa

Ensure that your visa photos meet the following specifications:

• Dimensions: 35mm x 45mm
• Color: Colored
• Head must occupy the central position
• Must be recently captured (within the last 3 months)
• Background: Solid, plain white or grey
• 80% face coverage
• Neutral facial expression
• Non-thick framed and prescription glasses are permitted
• Headgear is allowed only for religious reasons
• Facial hair is permitted

Processing Time for Latvia Tourist Visa

The processing time for a Latvia tourist visa from India typically takes around 10 working days. However, this timeframe can vary due to factors such as the number of entries, validity, and other considerations. It may also depend on the volume of applications at the embassy and your previous travel history. Therefore, it is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

Latvia Tourist Visa Fee

The visa fees depend on factors like the number of entries, validity, biometric charges, and any additional service charges levied by the VAC. Exchange rates for foreign currencies can also influence the total fee. As a result, you should verify the exact fee amount before starting your application.

• Multiple entry (Normal): 90 days, 3 months validity – €92.96

Post-Submission and Visa Status Check

Once you have submitted your documents and biometric data at the appointment center, your application will enter the processing phase. It’s important to note that even if you applied through the VAC, they have no control over the processing or decisions related to the visa. The processing is entirely within the purview of the Embassy. If your visa is approved, you can collect it directly from the VAC or opt for delivery to your address for an additional fee.

How to Check Visa Status?

While awaiting your visa, you can track the status through the Latvia tourist visa status tracking services offered by the VAC. You can choose to receive SMS notifications from the VAC or visit https://www.vfsvisaonline.com/Global-PassportTracking, where you can enter your reference number and date of birth to check the status. You may also contact the travel agency through which you applied for assistance with tracking.

When You Have Your Visa

Once you have obtained your tourist permit, keep the following factors in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:

• Take note of the visa’s expiry date, duration of stay, and the number of entries specified on the visa sticker. You must adhere to these conditions and avoid overstaying.
• Always carry your travel documents, including your passport and visa.
• Ensure that you travel to Latvia within 6 months of the visa issue date or as specified on the sticker. Beyond this period, your permit will become invalid.
• While traveling within Latvia, carry copies of your travel documents.
• While on a tourist permit, you are not permitted to engage in work activities. However, you are allowed to participate in other activities that fall under the general Schengen short-term category, such as visiting friends or engaging in voluntary charity work.
• It is generally not possible to extend a tourist visa. You are free to move within the Schengen zone, unless your visa is of the Limited Territorial Validity (LTV) category.