Latvia Student Visa Guide 2025
Your step-by-step guide to applying for a Latvian student visa — from admission to arrival.
Visa Application Journey
1. Receive Admission Letter
Once you are accepted to a Latvian university, you’ll receive an official Admission Letter — required for the visa application.
2. Prepare Required Documents
Gather all necessary documents like your passport, university invitation, proof of funds, medical insurance, and accommodation details.
3. Submit Application at Embassy
Apply for your D-Type Long-Term Student Visa at the Latvian Embassy or VFS office in your country. Book your appointment early.
4. Wait for Processing
Visa decisions typically take 2–4 weeks. Track your application online and be ready to provide any extra documents if requested.
5. Fly to Latvia
Once approved, collect your visa and book your flight to Latvia. Upon arrival, apply for your residence permit at the OCMA.
Documents Required for Visa (for Indian Nationals)
- Valid passport (issued within past 10 years, valid at least 3 months beyond intended stay) with at least two blank pages.
- Completed, printed & signed Long-Stay Visa Application Form of Latvia.
- Recent passport-size photographs (35mm x 45mm, white background) as per specifications.
- Invitation letter from the Latvian educational institution approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA).
- Signed study agreement or letter of admission from the university.
- Proof of sufficient financial resources (e.g., bank statements) covering tuition and living costs.
- Proof of accommodation in Latvia (dormitory confirmation or rental agreement).
- Valid travel health insurance covering the whole intended stay (minimum coverage ~€42,600).
- Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) / Criminal Record.
- Copies of previous educational certificates and transcripts (legalised/apostilled if required).
- Proof of travel/air-ticket reservation or itinerary.
- “Hello Verify” document verification slip (mandatory for Indian applicants prior to VFS appointment).
Important Notes
- This checklist is for the Long-Stay (D-type) student visa for programs exceeding 90 days.
- Requirements may vary slightly by university or embassy. Always verify with the official VFS Global checklist for your jurisdiction.
- Appointments at VFS India may require prior document upload via Hello Verify and could involve an interview.
Processing Time & Embassy Information
The processing time for a Latvian long-term student visa (Type D) is typically 2–4 weeks. Applications are accepted through Latvian embassies or authorized VFS Global centers in your country.