Latvia Golden Visa 2025

Latvia Golden Visa Program: Residence Permit in Europe and Global Investment Strategies (2025 Flagship Guide)

Latvia, nestled in the heart of the European Union and known as the pearl of the Baltic Sea, offers a unique opportunity for investors: the Latvia Golden Visa program. This program stands out with its affordable costs and fast processing times, not only providing freedom of movement and residency rights within Europe but also becoming a key part of global strategic investment plans.

The Latvia Golden Visa program, positioned as NotteGlobal’s most preferred and “flagship” program, opens doors for investors and their families seeking a new beginning in Europe. With its modern infrastructure, transparent legal framework, and investment-friendly environment, Latvia is one of Europe’s rising stars in terms of both quality of life and business potential.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the current investment options, application processes, unique advantages, costs, and why the Latvia Golden Visa program might be the right choice for your global goals as of 2025.

What is the Latvia Golden Visa and Why is it So Attractive? (Program Fundamentals)

The Latvia Golden Visa (officially known as: Residence Permit by Investment Program) was launched in 2010 with the aim of attracting global investors to the Latvian economy and accelerating the country’s economic development. The program offers various investment options, granting investors and their families a temporary residence permit in Latvia, and consequently, visa-free travel within the Schengen Area. The program particularly stands out for its cost-effectiveness.

The main attractions and advantages of the Latvia Golden Visa:

Visa-Free Travel in the Schengen Area: A Latvian residence permit grants its holder the freedom to travel visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period across the 27 European countries comprising the Schengen Area. This provides great flexibility for business trips and holidays.
Fast and Transparent Process: After the investment is made and necessary documents are submitted, residence permit applications are typically processed within a short period of 2 to 3 months. This represents a significant time advantage compared to many other European Golden Visa programs.
Affordable Investment: The program offers one of the most accessible investment thresholds in Europe. It particularly stands out by providing an opportunity to obtain a European residence permit with a competitive minimum investment amount, as low as 50,000 Euros for certain investment types.
Family Inclusion: Along with the main applicant, their spouse and all unmarried children under 18 can also obtain residence rights. This makes it easier for families to start a new life together in Europe.
Right to Live and Work in Latvia: Residence permit holders have the legal right to live and work in Latvia. This offers great flexibility for those looking to pursue career opportunities or establish a new business.
Low Tax Environment: Latvia is known for its investor-friendly tax policies. Notably, corporate profits are taxed only when distributed (as dividend payments). Undistributed profits are not taxed. This provides significant advantages for doing business and generating profits.

Who Can Apply for the Latvia Golden Visa? (2025 Eligibility Criteria)

The Latvia Golden Visa program is open to third-country nationals (those from non-EU/EFTA member states) who meet specific conditions. General eligibility criteria for applying are as follows:

Age and Nationality: The main applicant must be over 18 years old and a citizen of a non-EU/EFTA member country.
Clean Criminal Record: The applicant and all family members aged 14 and above included in the application must have a clean criminal record, both in their home country and in all countries where they have resided for the last 10 years. Serious criminal records may lead to the rejection of the application; however, a detailed review and situation analysis with an expert team can determine a suitable application strategy.
Financial Sufficiency: The applicant must prove they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their dependents in Latvia. This is demonstrated through income documents, bank statements, and proof that the investment was obtained through legal means.
Health Insurance: It is mandatory to have a health insurance policy with sufficient coverage, valid for the duration of stay in Latvia.
Residential Address: Proof of a valid residential address in Latvia must be provided.

Latvia Golden Visa Investment Options (2025 Detailed Guide)

The Latvia Golden Visa program aims to attract capital inflow into the country by offering various options to investors. NotteGlobal’s “flagship” program highlights the most attractive investment options:

Capital Investment in Companies Operating for Specific Purposes (NotteGlobal Special Option):
- A minimum investment of 50,000 Euros is made into companies approved by the Latvian government and operating in specific economic sectors (especially technology-oriented start-ups, digital projects, and innovative companies).
- This investment can typically be in the form of increasing the company’s share capital or purchasing special-purpose bonds issued by the company.
- This option is aligned with Latvia’s strategy of supporting the digital economy and innovation, and its low entry threshold makes it highly attractive to investors.
- The investment must be made through a special account opened in a Latvian bank, and documents proving the legal origin of the investment must be submitted.
Unsecured Loan (Subordinated Loan) Investment in Credit Institutions (Banks):
- Investing a minimum of 280,000 Euros as an unsecured loan to a credit institution (bank) operating in Latvia for a period of at least 5 years. This investment must be interest-free.
Real Estate Investment (Second Stage or High-Value Option):
- Although once a popular option, it is not currently offered as a primary investment option with a minimum of 50,000 Euros. However, higher-value real estate purchases in Latvia (e.g., minimum 250,000 Euros + 5% state fee) can still grant a residence permit.
- NotteGlobal strategically supports investors in first obtaining a residence permit with a low-cost company investment, and then in a second stage, directing them towards real estate investments in Latvia, with the goal of expanding their portfolios. This offers both a foothold in Europe and the potential for rental income.
Latvian Government Special Purpose Interest-Free Bonds:
- Purchasing Latvian government-issued special purpose interest-free bonds worth a minimum of 250,000 Euros. These bonds must be held for at least 5 years.

How Does the Latvia Investment Process Work? (Step-by-Step Application Guide)

The Latvia Golden Visa application process proceeds with transparent and structured steps, with NotteGlobal’s expert team guiding you through each stage:

Preliminary Assessment and Consultancy:
- The first step is a comprehensive preliminary assessment with NotteGlobal experts. At this stage, the most suitable investment option is determined based on your eligibility and expectations.
- An initial review of required documents is conducted, and a personalized strategy is developed.
Investment Execution:
- The chosen investment (e.g., NotteGlobal’s recommended 50,000 Euro government-approved capital investment in companies) is made to the relevant institution or company in Latvia.
- Official documents proving the investment (contract, receipt, bank transfer evidence) are secured.
Document Preparation and Legal Review:
- All necessary personal and financial documents, such as passports, identity documents, criminal record certificates, health insurance, and proof of address, are collected.
- NotteGlobal’s legal advisors conduct a detailed legal review to ensure all documents comply with the requirements of the Latvian Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs. Necessary translations and notary attestations are completed.
Application Submission:
- The residence permit application, along with the prepared investment and personal documents, is submitted to the Latvian Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA).
- Applications are usually submitted through NotteGlobal’s representatives or authorized law firms in Latvia.
Biometric Data Registration and Health Check:
- After the application is accepted, the applicant and included family members travel to Latvia to provide their biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
- Mandatory health examinations (usually a simple check-up) are also completed at this stage.
Residence Card Delivery:
- Upon approval of the investment and successful completion of all checks, the residence permit card is issued and delivered to the applicant or their authorized representative. This process typically takes 2-3 months.

Why Latvia Golden Visa? (Competitive Advantages)

The Latvia Golden Visa program has several distinct advantages compared to similar programs offered by other European Union countries:

Most Affordable Entry: Compared to programs like the Greece Golden Visa (minimum 250,000 Euros) and Portugal Golden Visa (initially 280,000 Euros for real estate, now 500,000 Euros for fund investment), Latvia’s minimum amount of 50,000 Euros for certain investment options is one of the lowest investment thresholds in Europe. This provides accessibility for a wider range of investors.
Unrivaled Speed: While residence card processing times in other Golden Visa programs can typically take 6 to 12 months, in Latvia, this process is completed in a record short period of just 2 to 3 months after the investment is made. This quick turnaround allows investors to realize their European plans faster.
Investor-Friendly Tax Structure: Latvia’s tax system is highly attractive. Corporate profits are taxed only upon distribution (dividend payments). Undistributed profits are not taxed. This provides significant advantages for companies to reinvest and generate profits. Personal income tax rates are also competitive.
High Quality of Life and EU Opportunities: Latvia offers a high quality of life with a safe living environment, pristine nature, rich culture, and European-standard infrastructure. As an EU member, residence permit holders can directly benefit from the educational, healthcare, and business opportunities offered by Europe.
Strategic Location and Access: Latvia’s geographical location provides easy access to both Europe and the Eastern European and Asian markets. This strategic position offers an ideal base for global trade and investment activities.

Required Documents for Latvia Golden Visa Application Process

Submitting comprehensive and accurate documents is essential for a smooth application process. The basic required documents include:

Passport and Identity Documents: A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity remaining) and copies of identity documents.
Biometric Photographs: Recent biometric photographs complying with Latvian visa standards.
Criminal Record Certificate: A clean criminal record certificate with apostille or consular approval, obtained from both your home country and all countries where you have resided for the last 10 years.
Proof of Investment:
- Investment contract (for company capital increase or bond purchase).
- Receipts and bank confirmations showing the transfer of the investment amount via bank.
- Documents proving the lawful origin of the investment funds (e.g., salary slips, company income statements, inheritance documents, etc.).
Health Insurance Certificate: An internationally valid health insurance policy covering your period of stay in Latvia and meeting minimum standards.
Address and Contact Information: A document showing your residential address in Latvia (rental agreement or title deed) and current contact information.
Proof of Sufficient Income: Bank statements, salary slips, company income declarations, etc., showing sufficient annual income to support yourself and your family members.
Marriage Certificate and Children’s Birth Certificates: If including family members, apostilled or certified copies of the marriage certificate and each child’s birth certificate.

All documents must be translated into Latvian and have legalizations (apostille or consular approval). NotteGlobal will provide full support during this document preparation process.

Long-Term Advantages of the Latvia Golden Visa

Beyond short-term residence permit benefits, the Latvia Golden Visa program offers investors and their families a long-term perspective:

Path to EU Citizenship: After residing legally in Latvia for a certain period (typically 5 years of temporary residence permit followed by 5 years of permanent residence permit, approximately 10 years in total), the right to apply for Latvian citizenship may arise. Citizenship requires additional conditions such as Latvian language proficiency, knowledge of Latvian history and constitution, and financial self-sufficiency. In most cases, there is also a requirement to renounce existing citizenship.
Family Security and Future Planning: Spouses and children can fully benefit from Latvia’s high-standard education and healthcare services, in addition to legally residing in the country. Your children will have the opportunity to study at prestigious European schools and prepare for an international career.
Business and Education Opportunities: Latvia offers a growing economy and business ecosystem in the Baltic region. Residence permit holders can establish their own businesses, work for local companies, or explore new opportunities in the European market. Higher education institutions offer attractive bachelor’s and master’s programs for both local and international students.
Inheritability: The acquired residence permit can be inherited by family members in the future, making it a long-term family planning tool.

Living in Latvia: A European Experience

Latvia is a country located on the coast of the Baltic Sea, noted for its green nature, historic cities, and modern texture.

Official Language: Latvian (but Russian and English are also widely spoken).
Currency: Euro.
Capital: Riga (a UNESCO World Heritage site and the cultural and economic center of the Baltic region).
Form of Government: Parliamentary Republic.
Population: Approximately 1.8 million.
Climate: Temperate continental climate; experiences four distinct seasons.
Quality of Life: Offers a safe, calm, and eco-friendly living environment. Cities are equipped with modern facilities, while rural areas promise tranquility with their natural beauty.
Economy: Significant growth is observed in sectors such as information technology, financial services, logistics, forestry, and food processing. Access to EU funds further strengthens the economy.

Life in Latvia combines all the advantages offered by Europe, with relatively more affordable costs.

Frequently Asked Questions (Latvia Golden Visa)

How long can I stay in the Schengen Area with a Latvian residence permit? A Latvian residence permit allows visa-free travel to the Schengen Area. According to Schengen rules, you can stay in other Schengen countries for a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. However, since you have a residence permit in Latvia, you can stay in Latvia indefinitely.
Can I work in another EU country with a Latvian residence permit? A Latvian residence permit does not directly grant a work permit in other EU countries. This is a national residence permit. However, this residence permit can serve as a stepping stone and facilitate processes for establishing a business, investing, or obtaining a work permit under certain conditions (e.g., like the Blue Card) in other EU countries.
Can I apply if I have a criminal record? Serious criminal records or being under international sanctions may lead to the rejection of the application. However, for minor or past offenses, your situation may need to be thoroughly examined by an expert legal team, and a suitable application strategy may need to be developed. NotteGlobal evaluates the specific circumstances of each case.
How can I renew my Golden Visa residence permit? The Latvia Golden Visa residence permit is initially granted for 1 year and can be renewed annually. For renewal, you need to prove that the investment is ongoing and that other program conditions (e.g., financial sufficiency and a clean criminal record) are still met. For residence card extension procedures, residence card holders are required to apply physically in Latvia.
Are there additional costs for including my family in the program? Yes, there are additional government fees and processing fees for each family member (spouse, children, parents) included in addition to the main applicant. Furthermore, additions may be made to the bank blocking amount depending on the investment option. We recommend contacting NotteGlobal for detailed costs.
How long do I need to physically stay in Latvia? The Latvia Golden Visa program does not impose a continuous physical residency requirement in the country to maintain the residence permit. Generally, a short visit to Latvia (even a few days may suffice) once every two years is enough to keep your permit active. This offers international business and travel flexibility.

Discover Unique Opportunities in Latvia with NotteGlobal!

The Latvia Golden Visa program is an ideal solution for investors seeking an affordable, fast, and strategic residence permit in Europe. As NotteGlobal, we are here to offer you tailor-made solutions with our flagship program. Our expert consultants will guide you through every stage of the application process, ensuring your investment is secure and guaranteeing a smooth start to your new life in Europe.

Don’t wait any longer to unlock a new door in Europe and expand your global investment opportunities.

Contact NotteGlobal today, and let’s explore together the unique advantages the Latvia Golden Visa program offers you!