Latvia Student Visa
Study in Latvia’s historic cities at a fraction of Western European costs. Migrate Way guides non-EU students through the new 2026 rules, from university admission to the day your residence permit is issued.
Check My EligibilityTalk to an Expert
A Smart, Affordable Base for Your Degree
Latvia offers non-EU students English-taught degrees at respected institutions such as the University of Latvia, Riga Technical University and Riga StradiΕΕ‘ University, in a Schengen and eurozone country.
If you have been accepted by an accredited Latvian institution and can show that you can support yourself, this route lets you study full-time, work part-time and live in the heart of the Baltics.
Why Study in Latvia?
Quality education, real work rights and a lower cost of living than much of Western Europe.
Established Universities
Latvia’s universities offer programs in business, engineering, medicine and the humanities, with many taught in English.
Affordable Living
Living costs are among the more affordable in the European Union, especially outside peak tourist areas.
Work While You Study
Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term and up to 40 hours during study holidays, without a separate work permit.
Clear Permit Terms
Under the new law, a study permit can be granted for up to two years and then renewed while your studies continue.
Time to Find Work
After graduation, you can apply for a permit of up to nine months to look for work or start a business.
Schengen Mobility
Your residence permit lets you travel within the Schengen Area for short stays, subject to Schengen rules.
What You Need to Qualify
These are the core conditions for a Latvian residence permit for study.
Admission and Study Agreement
An acceptance and a signed study agreement with an accredited Latvian university or college. Some qualifications need recognition first.
Proof of Funds
Means of subsistence of about β¬780 per month, or roughly β¬9,360 for a year. Some universities and consulates ask for more, so we confirm yours.
Health Insurance
Valid health insurance for the whole period of your stay, meeting Latvian requirements.
Accommodation
A confirmed place to live, such as a university dormitory or a rental, supported by the right paperwork.
Valid Passport and Documents
A valid passport, application forms, photos and supporting documents in the required format.
Study Progress
You must study full-time and keep progressing, because your permit depends on remaining a genuine student.
What the 2026 Rules Mean for You
Latvia’s new law changed several details, so it is worth planning around them from the start.
- A long-stay D visa of up to one year, followed by a residence permit for studies of up to two years
- State fees depend on how fast you want a decision, with a standard speed and faster paid options
- Work of up to 20 hours a week in term and 40 hours during holidays
- From 15 September 2026, bachelor’s and master’s students who are not citizens of NATO countries cannot request residence permits for family members, while doctoral students are not affected
- Time spent studying counts only partly toward permanent residence
How It Works
Five clear stages, with Migrate Way beside you at every one.
Admission and Study Agreement
We help you choose a program and secure admission. If your previous degree needs recognition, we guide you through that step first.
Financial Verification
We check that your bank statements or sponsorship meet the 2026 subsistence requirement, with some margin for safety.
Visa Filing and Interview
We prepare your file for the long-stay D visa at the Latvian embassy. You may be invited to an interview about your study plans.
Travel and Arrival
Once your visa is issued, you travel to Latvia and move into your confirmed accommodation, such as a dormitory or a rental.
Residence Permit Collection
You complete your residence permit with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs and collect your card, which confirms your right to study and work part-time.
What We Handle for You
Student visa paperwork is detailed and rules are changing. We keep you on the right track.
Eligibility Assessment
An honest view of your chances before you pay any fees.
Admission Guidance
Help choosing a program and preparing a strong application.
Tailored Document Checklist
A clear list built around your situation and the 2026 rules.
Proof of Funds Advice
Guidance on presenting your savings, scholarship or sponsorship.
Pre-Submission Review
A final check of your complete file to catch errors that cause delays.
Arrival Support
Step-by-step help with your permit and settling in.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to the questions we hear most about the Latvia student visa.
Can I work while studying in Latvia?
Yes. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term and up to 40 hours during official study holidays, without a separate work permit. Work must not interfere with your studies.
What is the minimum language requirement?
It depends on the language of your program. For English-taught degrees, your university will set the English proficiency evidence it needs, and you do not need Latvian to study. Learning some Latvian will still help in daily life.
Can I stay in Latvia after I graduate?
Yes. After graduating, you can apply for a temporary residence permit of up to nine months to look for work or start a business. If you find a job, you can then apply for a residence permit for employment.
Can I bring my family?
Under the rules in force since 15 September 2026, bachelor’s and master’s students who are not citizens of NATO countries cannot request residence permits for family members. Doctoral students are not affected. We review your situation before you plan.
How much money do I need to show?
The standard subsistence figure from 2026 is about β¬780 per month, which is roughly β¬9,360 for a year, though some universities and consulates ask for more. We confirm the right figure for your case.
Does a student permit lead to permanent residence?
Not directly. Time spent as a student counts only partly toward permanent residence, so a later work or other permit is usually needed to build a long-term path. We can explain the options.
Do you guarantee approval?
No one can. The final decision rests with the Latvian authorities. What we do is make sure your application is complete, accurate and well prepared, which gives you the strongest possible chance.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Latvia’s rules changed in September 2026 and are still being applied in practice, so details should always be confirmed before you apply.
Ready to Study in Latvia?
Tell us about your studies and your plans, and we will let you know whether you are ready to apply and what your next steps should be.