Moving from Latvia to the UK is a great opportunity for those who want to enjoy the high standard of living and vibrant culture of the UK. The requirements for visiting, working and settling in the UK from Latvia are quite straightforward and easy to meet, and with the right guidance, you can make your journey an enjoyable and hassle-free one.

If you’re planning to travel from Latvia to the UK, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure a hassle-free journey. In this article, we will cover everything from visas to immigration rules, to help you plan your trip to the UK with ease.

Visiting the UK

When applying for a UK visit visa from Latvia, you will need to provide evidence of your identity, finances and purpose of travel.

The process of applying for a UK visit visa from Latvia requires that you fill out an online application form, pay the required fees, submit your passport and supporting documents at the VFS Global office in Riga. It is important to note that applications can take up to 3 weeks to process, so you should ensure you have submitted your application in plenty of time.

Once your visa has been approved, you will receive an email notification with instructions on how to collect your passport. You must present your passport along with your UK visa upon arrival in the UK. You will then be allowed to enter the country and start enjoying all that the UK has to offer!

Visa requirements for Latvian citizens

If you are a citizen of Latvia, you will need to obtain a visa before entering the UK. The visa you will require depends on your intended length and purpose of your stay in the UK.

For stays up to 6 months: You will need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa. This is valid for 6 months and can be used for tourism, visiting friends or family, business trips, short courses, medical treatment, or to take part in sporting or creative events.

For stays over 6 months: If you are looking to stay in the UK for longer than 6 months then you will need to apply for a Long-Term Visitor Visa. This visa is valid for 2 or 5 years, depending on the length of time you intend to stay. It can be used for a number of purposes, including studying, working, researching or attending a conference.

For study: If you plan on studying in the UK for more than 6 months then you will need to apply for a Student visa. This visa requires you to provide evidence that you have enough money to support yourself while in the UK, and that you meet the English language requirements.

For work: If you plan to work in the UK then you will need to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa. This type of visa requires sponsorship from an approved UK employer and you must also meet the necessary English language and other requirements.

It is important to note that any visa application you make to enter the UK must include proof of your identity, as well as evidence of your financial ability to support yourself during your stay in the UK.
Once you have obtained a valid visa and entered the UK, you may be asked to prove your identity at immigration control when arriving in the UK.

Documents required for entry the UK from Latvia

If you are travelling to the UK from Latvia, you will need to provide certain documents for entry into the UK. Depending on the type of visa you have and the purpose of your visit, these documents may vary.

The most common documents required for entry to the UK from Latvia are:

A valid passport – This must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you plan to enter the UK.
Evidence of financial resources – To ensure that you can support yourself during your stay in the UK, you will need to provide evidence of your financial resources, such as bank statements or a letter from your employer.
Evidence of ties to Latvia – You may be asked to provide evidence that you intend to return to Latvia at the end of your stay, such as a letter from your employer or a copy of your rental agreement.
Return or onward travel ticket – When entering the UK, you will need to provide evidence of onward travel or return tickets, such as an itinerary or flight bookings.
These are some of the main documents you will need to provide when entering the UK from Latvia. It is important to check with your local embassy or consulate for any additional documentation requirements that may apply.

Length of stay allowed

The length of stay allowed when entering the UK from Latvia will depend on the type of visa you have applied for. Generally, a standard visitor visa will allow you to stay in the UK for up to six months, however, if you are travelling to the UK for a specific purpose such as work or study then the length of stay may be longer.

If you have a standard visitor visa, then you will not be able to extend your stay beyond the original time period that was granted to you. However, it is possible to apply for an extension to your visa if your circumstances change and you require additional time in the UK.

For Latvian citizens who wish to stay and work in the UK, there are a number of different visas available which will allow them to stay in the UK for longer periods of time. For example, the Skilled Worker visa is issued for those coming to the UK to take up skilled employment and this visa allows for up to five years’ stay in the UK. The Youth Mobility Scheme visa also allows Latvian citizens aged 18-30 to come to the UK and work for two years.

The UK also has a points-based immigration system which offers a number of visas to those who meet certain criteria, such as those seeking entry to the UK for investment, entrepreneurship or family reasons. These visas may allow for extended stays of up to five years, depending on the type of visa and the individual’s circumstances.

Finally, Latvian citizens who have been granted indefinite leave to remain in the UK can stay in the UK for an unlimited period of time.

Travel arrangement & checklists

When traveling to the UK from Latvia, it is important to make sure you have all the necessary documentation in order. Here is a checklist of the items that you should prepare before your trip:

Valid passport – Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after you plan to enter the UK.
Travel and accommodation arrangements – Make sure you have booked travel and accommodation arrangements to get to the UK, as well as any other places you plan to visit while there.
Visa application documents – Have all the necessary documents ready for when you apply for a UK visa. These include a completed application form, passport-sized photographs, a valid passport, proof of address, travel itinerary, bank statements, and any other documents required.
Health insurance – You must provide evidence of health insurance coverage while in the UK.
Proof of funds – When applying for a visa, you will need to prove that you have enough funds to support yourself while in the UK. This includes showing proof of employment or self-sufficiency and/or proof of access to enough funds to cover your stay.
Return ticket – Make sure you have a return ticket in place if you are travelling on a single entry visa.
Passport photos – Ensure you have two passport-sized photographs with you when travelling to the UK from Latvia.
Documents related to employment – If you are travelling for work reasons, make sure you have all relevant documents related to the job ready for inspection upon entry into the UK.

By following this checklist and having all the necessary documents in order before travelling, you can ensure a smoother transition and a hassle-free trip to the UK from Latvia

Visiting the UK: Nearest Airport to Latvia

The nearest airports to Latvia are in Riga, the capital city, and Liepaja, the nation’s second-largest city. The most convenient way to get to the UK from Latvia is to fly direct from one of the listed airports. The flight time is approximately two hours. Airlines that offer direct flights to the UK include British Airways, KLM, and Wizz Air, among others.

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Costs involved

When moving from Latvia to the UK, there are several costs involved. These include visa and work permit fees, travel costs, immigration and health insurance, accommodation and living costs.

Visa and work permit fees: Latvian citizens need to apply for a UK visa to be able to enter and work in the country. The current fee for a standard visitor visa is £95 per person while a Skilled Worker visa costs £610. A work permit will also require an additional fee depending on the type of work and permit you are applying for.

Travel costs: The cost of travel from Latvia to the UK will depend on the type of transport used and the route taken. It can range from a few hundred pounds to a few thousand pounds, depending on how far you are travelling.

Immigration and health insurance: As a non-EEA national travelling to the UK, it is important to have sufficient immigration and health insurance. This is to ensure that your rights and entitlements are protected in case anything goes wrong during your stay. The cost of this insurance can vary, but it is generally recommended that you purchase cover for at least six months’ duration.

Accommodation and living costs: You should budget for accommodation and other living costs once you arrive in the UK. The cost of rent will depend on the area in which you choose to live, with central London being the most expensive. Additionally, you should factor in costs such as food, utility bills, phone bills and other daily expenses.

CGM is a corporate immigration application for expats, sponsoring companies and business immigration advisors. Feel free to contact us on 0300 000 000 or send us an email if you have any questions.

Working in the UK

For those looking to move from Latvia to the UK, there are various options available. For those wanting to work in the UK, there are two main ways of doing so.

The first is to apply for a work permit. Work permits allow you to work in the UK for up to two years at a time and are available to people from certain countries including Latvia. In order to be eligible, applicants must meet certain criteria such as having a job offer from a UK employer and having the necessary qualifications or experience.

The second way to work in the UK is to apply for permanent residence. This allows you to stay in the UK for an indefinite period of time, but it also requires that you have been living in the UK for at least five years before applying.

Types of work permits available for Latvian citizens

Latvian citizens who wish to work in the UK have a few different options when it comes to work permits. These include the following:

Skilled Worker Permit: This is the most common type of permit that Latvians would apply for. It is usually granted for jobs that require a minimum of skilled labor, such as engineering or IT. The applicant must be offered a job by an employer in the UK who has been approved to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship and meet the salary and English language requirements.
Temporary Worker Permit: This permit is for those who wish to work in the UK on a short-term basis. It is available for roles such as charity workers, religious workers, medical researchers, exchange students and youth mobility schemes. This visa does not require a job offer from an employer, but does require a valid passport and proof of funds.
Entrepreneurial Visa: This visa is for individuals who wish to set up and run their own business in the UK. Applicants need to have access to at least £50,000 in investment funds and will need to create at least two full-time jobs in the UK within a certain period of time.
Senior or Specialist Permit: This permit is for those who are already employed by a company outside of the UK and wish to transfer to their UK branch. Applicants will need to demonstrate they have worked for the company abroad for at least 12 months and can provide evidence of their skillset.

No matter which type of permit you are applying for, it is important that you understand all of the requirements before submitting your application. As visa regulations can change over time, make sure that you are up-to-date with the latest information before you start the application process.

How to Apply for a work permit from Latvia

If you are a Latvian citizen interested in working in the UK, you must apply for a work permit from Latvia. The process involves submitting the required documents, such as your passport and proof of employment offer, to the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

To be eligible for a work permit, you must meet certain criteria. You must:

Have a job offer from an approved employer
Have a valid passport or travel document
Be aged 16 or over
Have a valid work permit if needed
Be able to communicate in English
Meet the necessary medical and character requirements
Be able to demonstrate that you can support yourself financially during your stay in the UK
Once you have gathered the required documents and met the eligibility criteria, you can begin the application process.

Documents required for work permit application

When applying for a work permit from Latvia, you will need to provide a variety of documents to demonstrate that you are eligible for the position and authorized to enter the UK.

• A valid passport or travel document
• Two recent passport-sized photographs
• Evidence of your education, such as qualifications and certificates
• Proof of your employment history, including references and job offers
• Evidence of your financial resources, such as bank statements
• Evidence of accommodation in the UK, such as an offer of a tenancy agreement
• A valid criminal record check certificate (if applicable)
• Evidence of your English language ability, such as IELTS results or equivalent
• A completed visa application form (VAF)
• Payment of the required fee
• A signed sponsorship certificate from your employer

The requirements for each visa category differ and may be subject to change. Therefore, it is important that you make sure you check the requirements for your particular circumstances.
Additionally, some jobs may require additional criteria such as qualifications or experience in order to qualify for a work permit. It is always best to check with the relevant government authority before applying.

Settling in the UK

Moving to the UK from Latvia can be a great experience, with many benefits and opportunities. It’s important to understand the visa requirements and process of obtaining the right documents before you start.

Once you have your visa and arrive in the UK, there are a number of steps you will need to take in order to settle and start working. This includes registering with the Home Office, getting a work permit, finding a place to live and arranging your travel. The costs associated with moving to the UK can be significant, as you may need to cover the cost of relocation, accommodation, health insurance and other associated costs.

In order to work in the UK, you will need to apply for a work permit. There are two types of permits available for Latvian citizens: the Skilled Worker Route and the Youth Mobility Scheme. Both schemes allow Latvian citizens aged 18-30 to work in the UK for up to 2 years, or for people aged 31-33 for up to 1 year. You will need to demonstrate that you meet certain eligibility criteria in order to obtain a work permit.

If you are looking to stay in the UK on a more permanent basis, you can apply for a Permanent Residence visa. This will enable you to live and work in the UK without needing to renew your visa each year. In order to qualify for a Permanent Residence visa, you must meet certain criteria including having worked in the UK for at least 5 years, paying taxes, having adequate accommodation and not having been convicted of any criminal offences.

Once you have moved to the UK, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the local area and culture, so you can make the most out of living there. There are plenty of support networks available such as local authorities and charities who can help guide you through the transition process.

Eligibility criteria for permanent residence

In order to be eligible for permanent residence in the UK from Latvia, you must meet the following criteria:

You must be a Latvian citizen.
You must have lived legally in the UK for a continuous period of five years (or less if you are married to a British citizen).
You must not have been absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any 12 month period during your five-year stay.
You must demonstrate that you are currently employed and/or self-sufficient in the UK.
You must pass a criminal record check.
You must demonstrate that you have adequate accommodation in the UK.
You must show that you can financially support yourself and any dependents without relying on public funds.
You must have sufficient knowledge of English, Welsh or Scottish Gaelic.
You must pass the Life in the UK Test.
You must have met all other eligibility requirements for indefinite leave to remain in the UK.

How to Apply for a Permanent Residence from Latvia in the UK

If you are a Latvian citizen looking to make a long-term move to the UK, you will need to apply for permanent residence. This is a process that can be lengthy and involve a variety of paperwork and documents.

Before you can apply for a permanent residence visa, you must first meet the eligibility criteria for the visa. In order to qualify, you must have resided in the UK continuously for five years or more, have no criminal record and must have a valid passport.

The application process begins with an online form. This form can be completed on the UK government website. Once you have submitted the form, it will then be reviewed by the Home Office and a decision made as to whether you are eligible to apply for a permanent residence visa.

If your application is successful, you will then need to provide further documents such as proof of identity, financial documents such as bank statements, proof of address and evidence of your employment status. You may also be required to attend an interview.

Once all of your documents have been reviewed and approved, you will then be issued with a visa which will allow you to stay in the UK permanently. With this visa, you will be allowed to work and study in the UK, as well as access public services and benefits.

It is important to note that if your circumstances change while in the UK, you may be required to reapply for a new visa. It is also important to keep your documentation up to date at all times.
By understanding the requirements and going through the application process correctly, you can ensure that your application for permanent residence from Latvia in the UK is successful.

Documents required for Permanent Residence application

When applying for a Permanent Residence from Latvia to the UK, there are several documents you must provide. These documents will be used to determine your eligibility and must be originals or certified copies of originals.

The most important documents are:

A valid passport or travel document, including two copies of the biometric data page.
Proof of financial means to support yourself and any dependents while in the UK. This could include bank statements, pay slips, and property deeds.
A medical report. This report should include evidence that you do not have any infectious or dangerous diseases and are fit to live and work in the UK.
Evidence of any qualifications or skills you have obtained in Latvia which could help you find work in the UK.
Evidence of a current address in the UK (if applicable).
A copy of your permanent residence permit from Latvia, if applicable.
Two passport-sized photographs taken within the last 6 months.
A criminal record certificate from your home country.
Details of any previous applications for visas or permission to stay in the UK (if applicable).
Any additional evidence requested by the visa office, such as letters of reference from family or friends in the UK, or proof of language proficiency in English or Welsh.

Can I bring my family with me from Latvia to UK?

Yes, it is possible to bring your family with you when you move from Latvia to the UK. However, each family member will have to meet certain criteria and apply for the right visa or permits. Depending on the family member’s nationality and relationship to you, they may be able to apply for a UK family visa or a dependent visa. If they are not eligible for these visas, they may still be able to enter the UK by applying for a visit visa or short-term stay visa.

To be eligible for a UK family visa, your family must be your spouse or civil partner, a dependent child under 18, an unmarried or same-sex partner who is in a durable relationship with you, or a parent or grandparent who is dependent on you financially. Each of these family members will need to meet the UK immigration requirements, such as having sufficient funds available, being able to support themselves without recourse to public funds, and having the necessary health insurance.

If your family member is not eligible for a UK family visa, they can apply for a dependent visa, which allows them to accompany you to the UK for work or study purposes. This visa requires that you must be legally employed and able to financially support yourself and your dependents. It also requires proof of accommodation, health insurance, and evidence of your employment status.

Your family members may also be able to enter the UK on a visit or short-term stay visa if they do not meet the requirements for the other visas. These visas allow the holder to remain in the country for up to 6 months at a time, with some restrictions on activities such as working or studying.

It is important to note that each family member must apply individually for their own visa. Therefore, it is essential to make sure that each person meets all of the relevant criteria and can provide the required documents before beginning their application.

How we can help

CGM App is an end-to-end immigration app, designed to make immigration and global mobility seamless. It is designed specifically for expats, sponsoring companies, and immigration consultants globally.

Visit cgmpartners.org.uk/register for more information.

Frequently asked questions

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Travel to the UK from Latvia