A Simplified Guide to Latvia Visa for Indian Travellers

For Indians wanting to go to Latvia, understanding the nuances of obtaining a Latvia visa is essential. From Latvia visa processing time to fees, documentation requirements, and the overall application process, each step plays a crucial role in ensuring a seamless travel experience. 

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of obtaining a Latvia visa for Indians, offering insights and tips to simplify the journey and make your Latvian travel dream a reality. 

Let’s dive in!

For Indian citizens intending to visit Latvia, several types of Latvia visas are available depending on the purpose and duration of the visit. These include:

When travelling to more than one Schengen country, remember to submit your application with the Embassy of the country where you will be staying the longest. In case of equally long stays, apply with the Schengen country where you arrive first. If you plan on travelling to a country outside of the Schengen Region (for example the UAE or the UK), apply for the other visa first, before applying for the Schengen visa.

Indians need to submit their visa application to VFS Global - the official visa partner of the Latvian government. Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for your short-term Schengen type ‘C’ Latvian visa through VFS Global-

Step 1: Identify Your Visa Type

The first step is to determine the right visa for your trip. For tourism apply for a tourist visa, for business trips, apply for a business visa, etc. These are all categorised under Schengen type ‘C’ visa. Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, and know your documentation requirements, the fee required for your visa, etc. All your documents should be in English. 

Step 2: Fill out Your Visa Application Form

Collect all the required documents for your visa application form and fill out the Latvia Visa Application Form online, print and sign it. 

Step 3: Book Your Appointment With VFS Global

Schedule an appointment at the Latvia VFS Visa Application Centre to submit your visa application. You need to apply in person (including babies and children). If travelling in a group, book an individual appointment for each group member. Upon successfully scheduling your appointment, VFS will send you an email confirming the same. 

Step 4: Pay Your Fees

Pay your Latvian visa fee. A Schengen visa costs around € 80 for people above 12 years of age. VFS has additional charges for their services. If you download the form to print and bring to the Visa Application Centre, payment will be made at the time of your appointment.

You can pay the Latvia visa fee at the visa application centre.

Step 5: Visit the VFS Visa Application Centre

Submit your printed application form and documents at the VFS Global office. Also, pay the fee (if not paid online). You will also have to submit your biometrics here.

Step 6: Collect Your Documents Back 

Once the visa authorities have decided on your Latvia visa application, you can collect your documents back from them. You can either collect the documents in person or avail of their courier services at an additional price. 

You will need the Original ICR & Copy of Govt ID Proof for collecting your documents in person.

Your immediate family members (i.e. parents, children, siblings, or spouse) and Representatives of a company can also collect the documents on your behalf. 

Third parties need to carry the following documents-

In case an applicant loses their ICR, they need to come in person for the collection of their passport from the counter.

In case, your application is rejected, you can appeal against the decision or reapply your visa application.

A long-term Latvian visa needs to be directly applied at the Latvian Embassy.

The Latvia visa fee for Indians depends on the type of visa they’re applying for.

Here is what a short-term Latvia visa will cost Indians (i.e., Schengen visa for tourism, attending business conferences, visiting friends & family, etc.)-

Do note the below points in the context of Latvia visa fee for Indians -

The Latvia embassy in India usually takes 10-12 working days after the visa application reaches them from the VFS centres to process your short-term Schengen visa applications. In exceptional cases, it may take 30 days to process the application. 

Please aim to apply for a Schengen visa at the Latvia Embassy as early as possible. You can submit Schengen applications as early as 6 months before your journey.

Long-term visas such as Student Visa, Employment Visa, and Residence Permit can take 15 days instead of the usual 10. If the authorities want to scrutinise your application further this period may increase to 60 days.

A short-term Schengen visa for Latvia allows for a stay of up to 90 days within a ‘180-day + 15 days grace period.’ 

Schengen visa extensions are possible in exceptional circumstances, such as force majeure situations or unexpected events. Applicants must submit extension requests before their visa expires, providing valid reasons and supporting documentation. Each case is evaluated individually by Latvia’s Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs.

Getting a Latvia visa as an Indian is a lengthy process, typically requiring essential documents, including a completed application form, passport, photos, proof of travel arrangements, accommodation, financial means, and insurance. The processing time varies but generally takes around 10 to 12 days. Fees are applicable and may vary based on visa type and processing speed. It's essential to apply well in advance of your travel date to allow for processing and potential delays. 

It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the specific requirements and procedures for a Latvia visa for a smooth visa application experience. 

Wishing you safe travels to Latvia! Bye!