Startup Visa
Latvia
Last updated: December 26, 2025
3 years (renewable)
$221-$443
1 month
Medium
About this Visa
Latvia offers a startup visa for people who want to start a technology business in Europe. You must have a real, working startup—not just an idea. The visa lets you live in Latvia and run your company while getting access to all 27 Schengen countries. This visa is designed for non-European entrepreneurs. It's faster and cheaper than similar programs in Germany, France, or Portugal. Latvia approves applications in about one month. Special note: If you are a Russian citizen, you cannot apply (since 2022). Belarusian citizens can apply but face extra background checks and banking difficulties.
Key Benefits
- Work in your own startup without restrictions
- Live and work in Latvia for 3 years
- Travel freely across 27 European countries
- Bring your spouse—they can work anywhere in Europe
- Bring your children—they get free school and healthcare
- No requirement to live in Latvia (manage from anywhere)
- Path to permanent residence after 5 years
- Path to citizenship after 10 years
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 18 or older
- Real, working startup (not just an idea)
- Technology-based, scalable business
- Real customers or paying users
- No serious criminal record
- €6,000 in savings
- Cannot work for other companies
- Must become company board member within 3 months
Financial Requirement
Show €6,000 ($7,100) in your bank account. You don't need to invest money in your business to get the visa. Add €1,800 ($2,100) per spouse or child.
Documents
- Valid passportMust be valid
- Bank statementShowing €6,000
- Business plan1-3 pages describing your idea
- Police recordShowing no criminal history
- Photo3×4 cm, color
- Health insuranceRequired after approval
- TB test certificateFrom a Latvian clinic, required after approval
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.