Do I need a job before I apply?

Yes. This route is employer-sponsored — your Latvian employer must obtain a State Employment Agency opinion and arrange an OCMA invitation before you can apply.

Can I change employers?

The visa or permit is generally tied to a specific employer, so changing jobs usually requires a new invitation and application. Long-term residents enjoy more flexibility.

Can my family come with me?

Family members can typically apply for their own residence permits on family-reunification grounds; check the current subsistence requirements with PMLP.

Long-stay visas (Type D)

Latvian Work Visa and Employment-Based Residence Permit

For third-country nationals coming to work in Latvia for a specific employer, granted as a long-stay (D) visa or a residence permit tied to that job.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

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Under review — check current rules

Minimum salary thresholds for employment are set by Cabinet regulation and change periodically; the exact current figure was not stated so no specific amount is given.

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)
Long-stay (D) visa validity: Up to 1 year; Seasonal work permits up to 6 months within a 12-month period.
Employer step: State Employment Agency opinion + OCMA invitation required before applying
Salary requirement: Must meet the statutory minimum for the occupation; Minimum salary thresholds are set by Cabinet regulation and updated periodically; confirm the current figure with PMLP.

Who it's for

Third-country nationals who have a concrete job offer or employment contract with a Latvian employer and intend to work for a specific employer in Latvia.

Requirements

A job offer or employment contract with a Latvian employer
An opinion from the State Employment Agency obtained by the employer
An invitation approved through an OCMA division
Salary meeting the applicable statutory minimum for the position
Valid travel document and proof of sufficient means of subsistence
Health insurance valid in Latvia

What you can do

Live and work legally in Latvia for the named employer
Travel within the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period
Renew or move to a residence permit for longer employment
In some categories, bring family members who apply for their own permits

How to apply

The employer first secures the State Employment Agency opinion and arranges the OCMA invitation. You then submit your application and documents to the competent Latvian diplomatic or consular representation abroad before travelling, or to OCMA if applying for a residence permit.

For a residence permit granted by OCMA, a single-entry 30-day long-stay visa is issued so you can enter Latvia and collect the permit.

Documents

Completed application form / questionnaire
Valid passport (with a copy)
Photograph
Employment contract or job offer
State Employment Agency opinion and OCMA invitation
Proof of subsistence and health insurance
Police clearance / statement on punishability where required
Proof of state fee payment

Frequently asked questions

Yes. This route is employer-sponsored — your Latvian employer must obtain a State Employment Agency opinion and arrange an OCMA invitation before you can apply.

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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