Latvia Golden Visa: Everything You Need to Know in 2026

If you want a practical route to European residency without pouring in massive capital, the Latvian Golden Visa stands out.

The programme is officially known as the Latvia Residence Permit for Investors, and even with the policy discussions happening in recent years, it continues to attract investors who want Schengen access, long-term stability, and a straight path to permanent residence.

This blog post breaks everything down clearly about what the programme offers, the investment options, current rules, the application steps, and what to expect in 2026.

What the Latvian Golden Visa Offers

The Latvian Golden Visa grants a five-year temporary residence permit in exchange for investment into real estate, business share capital, or subordinated bank capital.

Key advantages:

● Full Schengen mobility
● Low entry thresholds compared with other EU investor visas
● Flexible stay requirements — no need to live in Latvia
● Fast processing (usually 1–3 months)
● A direct route to permanent residence and future citizenship

For many families, this becomes an affordable and predictable way into the EU, without the complexity that comes with other European programmes.

Eligibility Requirements

The baseline criteria stay consistent:

● You are a non-EU, non-EEA, non-Swiss citizen
● You hold a clean criminal record
● You can prove a legal source of funds
● You maintain the investment during the entire residence period
● You hold valid health insurance while residing in Latvia

Certain nationalities, specifically nationals of Russia and Belarus, are restricted from applying under the investor route due to ongoing policy decisions.

Investors from all other regions, including India, the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia, the UK, and the Americas, remain eligible.

Investment Routes (for 2026)

Latvia offers three recognised paths. Each gives the same residency rights. Your choice depends on capital, risk appetite, and long-term goals.

1. Real Estate Investment – Minimum €250,000

The real estate option remains one of the most cost-efficient residence routes in Europe.

You must:
● Purchase one property worth at least €250,000 in Riga or Jūrmala
● Pay the 5% state fee after approval
● Ensure the property is purchased from a Latvian tax resident

Notes:
● You may buy up to two properties outside Riga/Jūrmala.
● Property must be free of debt and legally compliant.
● Rental yields in Riga are among the highest in the region, which helps offset holding costs.

This route suits investors seeking security and long-term appreciation.

2. Business Investment – €50,000 or €100,000 + €10,000 State Fee

If you prefer building or supporting a business, Latvia’s corporate investment path is flexible.

Option A: €50,000
For companies with:

● Fewer than 50 employees
● Turnover under €10 million

Option B: €100,000 – Premium Business Investment
Designed for established companies exceeding standard thresholds, this €100,000 investment offers a streamlined and prestigious route into the EU market.

Key Details:
● A €10,000 contribution to the state budget is payable after approval.
● The company must remain fully operational.
● The business must generate a minimum of €40,000 in annual taxes, ensuring a robust economic footprint.

Why This Option Stands Out:
This is not just an investment, but it’s a strategic, high-value entry into Europe. Ideal for founders, entrepreneurs, and investors seeking a luxurious and credible presence in the EU, or planning to expand existing operations to Latvia.

With this option, you secure access to the Latvian business landscape, gain Schengen mobility, and position your company for long-term growth in a premium market environment.

3. Subordinated Bank Capital / Government Bonds – €280,000

This route suits investors who want minimal involvement.

● Minimum €280,000 in subordinated bank capital or specific government financial instruments
● Investment must be held for at least 5 years
● No additional real estate or company obligation

It’s a stable financial pathway, though it requires higher capital.

Residence Permit Validity and Renewals

The temporary residence permit is issued for five years. During that time:

● You do not need to live full-time in Latvia
● You must register annually, but the requirements are simple
● Your family (spouse + dependent children) is also eligible under the same investment

After five years, you may apply for:

Permanent Residence

You must show:

● Basic knowledge of Latvian (A2 level)
● Legal stay throughout the investment period
● Continued financial eligibility

Citizenship

This typically requires:

● 10 years of residency
● Latvian language test
● Civic / history knowledge
● In most cases, renunciation of previous citizenship (Latvia generally does not allow dual citizenship except in specific cases)

Will the Latvian Golden Visa Continue in 2026?

This is the question many investors ask.

A legislative proposal introduced in late 2023 suggested removing certain investor-based residency routes. As of now (entering 2026), the programme remains active, and applications continue to be processed.

Here’s what matters:

● Policy discussions have not been finalised into a full repeal
● Existing investors are expected to be grandfathered, even if changes occur
● Latvia still positions itself as an investment-friendly market
● Demand for Latvian residency has increased significantly since 2024

If you are planning to apply, the safer approach is to begin early while the route remains open.

Application Timeline and Process

TLG Global guides clients through a structured and predictable process:

1. Schedule a call
We help you choose the most suitable investment route. 

2. Due Diligence & Document Preparation
This includes:

● Passport and identification
● Proof of funds
● Clean criminal record
● Investment intention documents
● Health insurance

3. Investment Execution
You complete the property purchase, business investment, or subordinated deposit. TLG ensures legal compliance through our partner networks. (Visit TLG Global Latvia)

4. Application Submission
We file the application through OCMA (Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs).

5. Processing Period
Most cases finish in 1–3 months.

6. Biometric Appointment in Latvia
You visit Latvia to submit fingerprints and collect your residence card.

7. Five-Year Residency Period
We support you with:
● Annual registration
● Investment compliance
● Renewals and upgrades 

Why Investors Choose Latvia Instead of Other EU Options

● Lower capital requirement than Portugal, Spain, Greece
● Faster approvals and predictable processing
● Light stay obligations, ideal for international business owners
● High rental yield potential compared with many EU capitals
● Straight path to permanent residence, no complex points-based system
● EU banking access, educational benefits, and long-term relocation flexibility

Latvia is one of the few EU countries where investors can secure residency without moving their entire life to Europe immediately.

Is Latvia Right for You?

You should consider Latvia if you want:
● A stable EU foothold
● Low entry cost for a Schengen residence permit
● Long-term family mobility
● A predictable route to permanent residence
● A strategic place to build or expand a business
● A future pathway to EU citizenship

Our clients often compare Latvia with Portugal, Greece, Malta, and Spain before choosing the Latvian programme for one simple reason: it offers serious value with fewer hurdles.

Start Your Latvia Golden Visa Application Today

Our team works with private investors, families, and business owners who want a reliable and compliant entry into Europe. Our team handles the entire process from investment selection to residence issuance, ensuring clarity at every step.

If you’re planning your move in 2026, now is the time to begin.
Book your free consultation today.

You can also reach us at
Email: info@tlg.global, sales@thelakhanigroup.com
Phone: +351 214 316 029 | +351 933 112 822