If you’re hoping to make a long-term move to Latvia and bring your family with you, you may need to apply for a family visa for long stay in Latvia – and here’s everything you need to know. Whether it’s Latvia’s famous red clay landscapes that have attracted you, or the vibrant culture and nightlife, or the exciting opportunities for a successful career, many visitors pack up and move to Latvia for their own reasons. As a country in the EU, Visa rules for Latvia generally follow the same regulations as other European countries, and the process for obtaining family visas in Latvia is the same as most other EU countries.
What is a Latvian Long-Stay Visa and Who Needs it?
A Latvian long-stay visa, which is also referred to as a ‘D’ visa, is a visa which allows the applicant and their travelling family to stay in Latvia for more than 90 days – and can extend to a period of up to one year. Those who intend to stay longer than 90 days, or who plan to study, work or remain with family, economic needs, or other reasons require a long-stay visa. The visa is allowed to those who plan to settle and live in Latvia for extended time periods, and provide the visa holder with certain rights and privileges. If a family is travelling together, then the primary applicant will need to apply for the visa.
What Are the Requirements for a Family Visa for A Stay in Latvia?
In order to apply for family visa for a stay in Latvia, the applicant and their family must meet certain criteria. These include:
-
- The main applicant must be on a legal visa status in their country of origin
-
- Proof of financial stability, a return ticket and valid travel insurance
-
- No criminal record or known terrorist affiliations
-
- Proof of sufficient funds to support the family during their stay in Latvia
-
- A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months before expiration date.
-
- A detailed justification for the trip and for long-term stay in Latvia
It is important to note that the applicant also has to show evidence of existing residency in Latvia or their country of origin, as well as proof of family ties (marriage certificate and birth certificates of children) in order to qualify for a family visa to Latvia.
Which Documents are Required to Obtain A Family Visa in Latvia?
Depending on the purpose of travel and the type of family visa being applied for, applicants may need to present the following documents when applying for a family visa to Latvia:
-
- A valid passport
-
- Application forms with supporting documents
-
- Proof of financial stability such as bank statements and/or pay slips
-
- Proof of family relationship such as birth certificates, marriage certificate and any other documents that show the family linkage
-
- Other documents depending on the purpose of visa such as employment or student letters.
How To Apply for a Family Visa to Latvia?
The process for applying for a family visa for a stay in Latvia begins by filling out the visa application form. Applicants must also provide the necessary supporting documents. All the forms must be completed accurately and the application will then be processed and considered. All applicants must appear in person at the embassy or consulate of Latvia to provide the biometric data; the visa will be issued only after this process is complete.
It must also be noted that with the recent introduction of the Schengen zones, family visas to Latvia are also subject to Schengen rules and regulations. As such, the process for applying for a family visa may take longer than other visa types as the Schengen authorities need to approve the visa before it is issued.
How Long Does it Take to Process a Family Visa for long stay in Latvia?
The processing time for family visas for long stay in Latvia varies depending on the purpose of the visit. In most cases, the processing time is between one to four weeks, but can take up to several months. You can check the status of your application by contacting the embassy or consulate of Latvia.
What Are the Benefits of A Family Visa for Long Stay in Latvia?
A family visa for long stay in Latvia offers various benefits. One of the main advantages is that it allows the family to stay in Latvia for a period of up to one year and provides them with certain rights and protection. The visa may also provide access to the Schengen countries, depending on the type of visa.
What are the Requirements for Extensions on a Family Visa for Longstay in Latvia?
Those wishing to extend their family visa for long stay in Latvia must apply for an extension. The applicant must show that they are still able to meet the criteria and requirements of the original visa, and must provide all the necessary documents, such as proof of financial stability and a valid passport.
Are there Any Restrictions for Family Visa Holders?
Family visa holders for long stay in Latvia are subject to certain restrictions. These include not being allowed to work or study in Latvia, not receiving any social benefits, and being required to leave the country after the validity period of the visa has expired.
Conclusion
The family visas for long stay in Latvia allow family members to stay together for up to one year, and offer many benefits, provided the criteria and requirements are met. The process to obtain the visa involves completing the application form, submitting the necessary documents and appearing in person at the embassy or consulate of Latvia to provide the biometric data. Although the process may take a while to complete, there are various safeguards and restrictions that family visa holders must follow in order to remain in compliance with the rules.
With the help of this guide, you should have all the information you need to obtain family visas for long stay in Latvia and ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience for you and your family. Be sure to thoroughly research the necessary steps and documents you need in order to successfully complete the visa application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
[faq-schema id=”204259″]
