How does the permit progress for a spouse?

A spouse of a Latvian citizen/non-citizen or permanent resident typically gets a one-year permit first, a four-year permit on the second application, and can request a permanent residence permit on the third.

Does the Latvian family member have to do anything?

Yes. The inviter must confirm the invitation at OCMA and assume the obligations set by the Immigration Law before documents are submitted.

What proof of relationship is needed?

Civil-status documents such as a marriage or birth certificate, apostilled and translated into Latvian.

Long-stay visas (Type D)

Latvian Family Reunification Residence Permit

For spouses and close family members of Latvian citizens, non-citizens or foreigners already holding a Latvian residence permit.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Latvia government website before you apply.

On this page

Who it's for
Requirements
What you can do
How to apply
Documents
Frequently asked questions

Issued by: Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA / PMLP)
Spouse duration path: 1 year → 4 years → permanent residence permit
Subsistence requirement: About €500/month per adult; Confirm current figure with PMLP.
Sponsor step: Inviter must confirm the invitation/undertaking at OCMA before documents are submitted

Who it's for

Spouses, minor or dependent children, and other qualifying close relatives of Latvian citizens/non-citizens or of foreigners holding a Latvian residence permit.

Requirements

Proof of the family relationship (e.g. marriage certificate with apostille and translation, birth certificate)
An invitation/undertaking confirmed at OCMA by the inviting family member
Proof of subsistence (about €500/month per adult)
Valid travel document
Health insurance valid in Latvia
For minors travelling with one parent, notarised consent of the other parent
Payment of the state fee

What you can do

Live in Latvia with your family member
Renew and progress toward permanent residence over successive applications
In many cases, take up employment (check the conditions attached to your permit)
Travel in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period

How to apply

The inviting family member first confirms the invitation and assumes the obligations set out in the Immigration Law at OCMA. The family member abroad then submits the application and supporting documents to a Latvian representation or OCMA.

Marriage- or kinship-based applications require civil-status certificates that are apostilled and translated.

Documents

Completed application questionnaire
Copy of valid passport
Photograph
Marriage / birth certificate (apostilled and translated)
Confirmed OCMA invitation from the sponsor
Proof of subsistence and health insurance
Notarised parental consent for minors where applicable
Proof of state fee payment

Frequently asked questions

A spouse of a Latvian citizen/non-citizen or permanent resident typically gets a one-year permit first, a four-year permit on the second application, and can request a permanent residence permit on the third.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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