How can I get Latvian citizenship?

Latvian citizenship can be acquired in several ways. The most common route is naturalization, which requires residence in Latvia for 10 years, passing a Latvian language test, and having no serious criminal record. Other options include citizenship by descent for those with Latvian ancestry, simplified naturalization for certain descendants of Latvian citizens, and, in some cases, through investment via the Latvia Golden Visa program.

Who is eligible for Latvian citizenship?

Naturalization: If you have lived in Latvia for 10 years, including the last 5 years with permanent residency. Marriage: If you have been married to a Latvian citizen for at least 5 years. Descent: If you have a Latvian parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent who was a citizen at the time of your birth.

What is Latvian citizenship by descent exile?

Latvia citizenship by descent for exiles is available to descendants of Latvians who were forced to leave the country or deported during the Soviet occupation between June 17, 1940, and May 4, 1990. To qualify, applicants must prove a direct family connection and provide documents showing that their ancestor was compelled to leave Latvia during that period. Additional eligibility requirements include being born before October 1, 2014, and having an ancestor who was a Latvian citizen on June 17, 1940.

What are the requirements for Latvian citizenship?

To obtain Latvian citizenship through naturalization, you generally need to have lived in Latvia for at least 10 years, including the last 5 years with permanent residence. Applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in the Latvian language and show knowledge of Latvian history, culture, and the Constitution.

What is the process for Latvian citizenship by descent?

If it is proved that at least one parent is of Latvian origin, you can apply for citizenship by descent in Latvia. Foreign citizens who prove that they had an ancestor of Latvian origin in 1940 or who escaped the German and Russian occupation in the years 1940-1990 can apply for Latvian citizenship by descent.

Does Latvia allow dual citizenship?

Latvia generally allows dual citizenship, while not for all, the following are included: EU, NATO, and EFTA member states, as well as Australia, New Zealand, and Brazil.

How long does it take to get Latvian citizenship?

The path to Latvian citizenship generally requires 10 years of residence in the country, with the last 5 years on a permanent residence permit. Once you meet these residency requirements, the naturalization application process typically takes 6 to 12 months to complete.

Is it easy to get citizenship in Latvia?

No. Naturalization usually requires 10 years of residence (last 5 with permanent residency), proof of income, Latvian language and culture knowledge, and renunciation of previous citizenship. The process typically takes 6–12 months, though dual citizenship may be allowed in some cases.

Can I get Latvian citizenship by descent?

You can apply for Latvian citizenship by descent if at least one of your parents is of Latvian origin. Additionally, foreign citizens with an ancestor of Latvian origin in 1940, or whose ancestors were forced to leave Latvia during the German and Soviet occupations between 1940 and 1990, may also be eligible.

How long do you have to live in Latvia to become a citizen?

To obtain Latvian citizenship through naturalization, you generally need to have lived in Latvia legally for 10 years, including the five years immediately before applying with a permanent residence permit, according to the Latvian Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs.

What are the benefits of Latvian citizenship?

Latvian citizenship offers the advantages of being an EU citizen, including the right to live, work, and study in any EU country, as well as visa-free travel to many nations. It also provides access to social security and healthcare, opportunities for business and property ownership, and enhanced global mobility.

Is a language test required for Latvian citizenship?

Yes, obtaining Latvian citizenship generally requires passing a Latvian language test (A2 level) as well as exams on Latvian history, culture, and the Constitution. Some exemptions apply for individuals who studied in Latvian schools or who have certain health conditions.

Latvian Citizenship: How to Become a Latvian Citizen

Latvian citizenship offers more than just the right to live in Latvia. You can access the entire European Union, granting freedom to live, work, and study across 27 member states. Many people qualify through their Latvian heritage, while others pursue it through naturalization or marriage.

Whether you are getting back to family roots or moving to Latvia long-term, understanding the different pathways, requirements, and timelines is the first step toward becoming a Latvian citizen.

In this guide you will learn about:

The benefits of Latvian citizenship
How to get Latvia citizenship
Application process for Latvia citizenship
Processing time for Latvian citizenship
Latvian citizenship language requirements
Latvia dual citizenship

Latvian Citizenship Benefits

1. Obtain a Latvian passport

One of the main benefits of getting Latvian citizenship is obtaining a Latvian passport. This includes visa-free travel to 180+ Latvia visa free countries, including those in the EU and Schengen Area.

2. Gateway to the European Union

Acquiring Latvian citizenship opens the door to the European Union, granting free movement and the option to live, work, and travel across any EU member state. This means you can settle in places like France or Germany, find job opportunities in various industries across Europe, or simply enjoy the ease of travel within the EU.

3. Schengen Area access

As a Latvian citizen, you gain unrestricted access to the Schengen Area. This allows you to travel visa-free to a host of European countries, experiencing diverse cultures, languages, and histories without the hassle of applying for multiple visas.

4. Quality education and healthcare

Obtaining Latvian citizenship provides access to the high-quality education and healthcare systems. As a citizen, you can benefit from educational opportunities at various levels and enjoy comprehensive healthcare services known for their efficiency and quality.

5. Economic opportunities

Latvian citizenship can provide a range of economic benefits. The country’s growing economy offers numerous business and investment opportunities. One of the most popular options is the Latvia Golden Visa, opening a world of investment opportunities. As a citizen, you’re also eligible for various government grants and support programs that can aid in business ventures or personal investments.

6. Cultural heritage and lifestyle

Bordering the Baltic Sea, Latvia boasts a rich cultural heritage and a unique lifestyle. Citizenship allows you to immerse yourself fully in Latvian traditions, festivals, and the arts, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of this vibrant culture.

7. Political rights

As a Latvian citizen, you gain full political rights, including voting and participating in referendums. This empowers you to have a say in the country’s governance and decision-making processes.

8. Family benefits

Latvian citizenship also extends several benefits to families. It provides stability and security for your children, who can enjoy the rights and privileges of being EU citizens, including access to education and healthcare. This makes Latvia an attractive option for those looking to secure a prosperous future for their family.

How to Get Latvia Citizenship

You can obtain Latvian citizenship through naturalization after legally residing in the country for a set period, by descent if one or both of your parents are Latvian citizens, or through restoration if you or your ancestors held Latvian citizenship before 1940.

All citizenship applications are handled by the Latvian Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA), the central authority overseeing these processes.

Latvia citizenship by naturalization

Aerial view of a city in Latvia with a tall modern building, historic architecture, and a park filled with autumn-colored trees

Latvia citizenship by naturalization is perfectly possible. You will need to meet the following criteria:

Be at least 15 years of age
Have resided permanently in Latvia for at least five years and have a permanent residence permit. Note that having a temporary residence permit does not count. After five years with a temporary residence permit, you can apply for a permanent residence permit; five years after this, you can begin the process of obtaining Latvian citizenship, taking a total of ten years.
Demonstrate that you can support yourself financially
Show Latvian language proficiency
Know the lyrics of the Latvian national anthem

Note: You cannot be admitted for Latvian citizenship through naturalization process if you have criminal records (terrorism, anti-state, criminal organization) or have failed to fulfill tax obligations or other payments to the state. Understanding taxes in Latvia is essential to ensure you meet the requirements.

Document requirements

To secure citizenship of Latvia through naturalization, you will need to submit the following documents to OMCA (Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs):

Copy of passport or ID card
Proof of living in Latvia for the last 5 years (e.g., work, study, or social insurance records)
Proof of legal income or financial support (e.g., job, pension, benefits, bank statement, or scholarship)
One photo (3×4 cm)
Proof of payment of state fee (€28.46 or reduced €4.27)
Criminal record certificate (if you hold another citizenship)

Latvian citizenship by descent

Latvian citizenship by descent is available to people with Latvian heritage. You may qualify if your parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, or another direct ancestor was a Latvian citizen before June 17, 1940, or if they were forced into exile during the Soviet occupation (1940–1990). In such cases, dual citizenship is generally allowed, especially for descendants of Latvians who fled the country during the occupation.

For the government to grant citizenship by descent, you must provide the following documents:

Citizenship application form
Birth certificate
Valid identity document (e.g., passport)
Identity document of a Latvian family member, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or death certificate, proving your eligibility for citizenship by descent

Foreign nationals cannot obtain Latvian citizenship by being born in Latvia, except in specific circumstances, such as children born in Latvia to stateless parents or whose parents are unknown.

Latvia citizenship by marriage

Latvian citizenship through marriage: Man and woman holding hands

After marriage, foreign spouses can apply for a residence permit in Latvia. After five years, they can apply for permanent residency, and after another five years, they may apply for Latvia citizenship. In Latvia, marriages are only allowed between a man and a woman, and both individuals must be over 18.

To secure Latvia citizenship by marriage, you should:

Be married to a Latvian citizen for at least ten years
Submit a marriage certificate as proof of your marriage to a Latvian citizen
Hold residency in Latvia for five consecutive years

You will also need to provide proof of proficiency in the Latvian language.

Latvia Residency by Investment: The Stepping Stone to Citizenship

Riga city centre with old-fashioned buildings in Latvia

There is no Latvia citizenship by investment. However, you can obtain Latvian citizenship after 10 years of residency. One of the top ways to start the journey and obtain a residency permit is through the Latvia Golden Visa. There are a range of attractive investment options, including:

Real estate investment: Buy property in Latvia worth a minimum of €250,000. The property must have a cadastral value of at least €80,000. Additional government fees apply (approximately 5% of the property value).
Business investment: Invest at least €50,000 in a capital company with fewer than 50 employees and an annual budget under €10 million OR invest €100,000 in a larger company with more than 50 employees and an annual budget over €10 million. Additional government fees include €10,000.
Bank deposit: Investors can deposit a minimum of €280,000 in Latvian banks for at least five years. A government fee of €25,000 applies.
Government bonds: Investors can purchase government bonds worth a minimum of €250,000 which can be withdrawn after five years. An additional state fee of €38,000 applies.

Important to note: Latvian residency by investment requires that you show you have the financial means to invest and sustain yourself in the country.

Read our Guide to the Latvia Golden Visa

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How to Apply for Latvian Citizenship

Latvian flag, representing Latvian citizenship

You must complete the following steps to apply for citizenship by naturalization:

Step one: Submit a citizenship application to the OCMA: You can submit your citizenship application to the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs of Latvia.
Step two: Pay the state fee: The Latvian state fee is €28.46 and can be paid at the OCMA. Certain residents, including pensioners or refugees, might qualify for a discounted or waived fee.
Step three: Pass the naturalization tests: You must complete and pass the Latvian citizenship test two months after submitting your citizenship application. Residents over 65 are exempt from citizenship tests.
Step four: Take a citizenship oath: Upon successfully passing the citizenship exam, you will receive an invitation to pledge allegiance to the Republic of Latvia.

Latvia Citizenship Processing Time

Latvian citizenship applications usually take about one year to process. Timelines vary by eligibility route—for example, citizenship by descent through a parent can be granted in just a few months, while applications based on a great-grandparent may take longer due to additional document checks. Naturalization also takes up to a year, provided all requirements, including the citizenship test, are met.

Latvia Citizenship Language Requirements

For applicants to obtain Latvian citizenship, they are required to take the Latvian language proficiency test within two months of submitting their application for citizenship by naturalization.

The following is required for the Latvia citizenship test:

Proficiency in the Latvian language
Fundamental knowledge of Latvian culture and history
An understanding of the Latvian constitution
Memorization of the Latvian National Anthem’s lyrics

If the applicant fails to pass the test for obtaining Latvian citizenship, they can retake it after three months. There is also an option to retake specific sections that didn’t achieve the required score.

Certain individuals are exempt from the Latvian citizenship test, including:

Those who have demonstrated Latvian language proficiency through primary or secondary education in Latvia.
Individuals who have completed higher education in Latvia.
People who received a basic education within the country.
Applicants over the age of 65 are exempt from the written portion of the exam.

Latvia Dual Citizenship

Latvia does not comprehensively allow dual citizenship. However, according to the Latvian citizenship law, you can acquire or retain dual citizenship with specific nations the country has a dual citizenship agreement with, including member states of NATO, the European Union, and the European Free Trade Association, plus Australia, New Zealand, and Brazil.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.

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