Available FAQ topics
Getting started In Latvia
Getting started In Latvia
Practical study information
Practical study information
Life Outside Studies
Life Outside Studies
Let's Learn Some Latvian
Let's Learn Some Latvian
Useful links
Useful links
Available topic answers
STEP 1. A FIND YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME AND CHOOSE A HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION
STEP 2. SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
STEP 3. A WAIT FOR THE RECOGNITION OF YOUR DOCUMENTS
STEP 4. A PREPARE FOR THE EXAMS AND INTERVIEW
STEP 5. A RECEIVE YOUR STUDY AGREEMENT AND PAY THE TUITION FEE
STEP 6. A MANAGE YOUR VISA OR RESIDENCE PERMIT
Find detailed instructions HERE https://www.studyinlatvia.lv/admission/application-guide
Visa and residence permit procedures vary depending on your citizenship. Please find below a brief overview of applicable procedures based on your country of citizenship.
For assistance with visas and residence permits, please contact the international office of the higher education institution (HEI) where you intend to study.
EU, EEA/Switzerland Citizens:
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens do not need to register with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA). They only require a valid travel document (passport or ID card) to enter Latvia under the following conditions:
• Admission to a HEI registered with the Register of education Institutions of the Republic of Latvia.
• Intended residence period does not exceed one year (refer to OCMA -> Residence permits).
Please note that in certain cases, such as opening a bank account, having a residence permit can be advantageous. For details on applying for a student residence permit as an EU citizen, please refer to OCMA information -> Registration cards for students.
Non-EU Nationals:
Non-EU nationals must determine if they require a visa to enter Latvia. Visa validity depends on individual circumstances. Detailed information is provided below.
Non-Visa Countries:
Certain non-EU nationals can enter Latvia without a visa and stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Please refer to the full list of countries whose citizens do not require a visa. Non-visa country citizens intending to stay in Latvia for more than 90 days must apply for a residence permit. Those enrolled in full-time studies at a registered HEI in Latvia can apply for residence based on their student status.
For information on applying for a student residence permit, please visit the OCMA website -> Residence permits. Note that visa or residence permit applications may take several weeks, so it’s advisable to start the application process early.
Visa Countries:
Citizens of countries requiring a visa to enter Latvia must apply at Latvian consular missions abroad or at consulates of other Schengen Member States authorised to process Schengen visa applications for Latvia. Please refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for relevant information and to locate Latvian Embassies.
For visa and residence permit applications, you can consult the international office of your HEI for details on procedures and required documents. The international office will guide you through the application process and provide information on study application requirements.
Countries Subject to Prior Consultation:
According to Article 22 of the Visa Code, certain countries or specific categories of citizens require prior consultation before a visa can be issued. For a list of these countries, please visit the relevant section on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. www.mfa.gov.lv/en
Make a financial plan:
Things to pack before departure
Essential:
Optional:
Finding a room that fits your budget and all your preferences can be challenging, so we recommend starting your search for accommodation as early as possible. As a student living in Latvia, you have two options – higher education institution’s (HEI’s) accommodation or private accommodation.
HEI-provided accommodation:
The Studyinlatvia.lv database offers information on accommodation options provided by each HEI. These can range from dormitories and hotels with shared or private rooms to apartments and student residences with private rooms. Contact the international student advisor at your chosen HEI for more detailed information about the accommodation options available.
Private accommodation:
It’s advisable to seek advice from the international student advisor at your chosen HEI, as navigating the housing market in Latvia can be difficult even for locals. Some HEI may have official partnerships with real estate agencies that can assist with private housing. Here are some additional places to search for private housing:
Housing or international student groups on Facebook – caution: potential scams!
The Latvian Student Union has published a “Student Housing Guide,” which provides detailed information about the accommodation process and offers valuable tips! You can access the guide here: https://shorturl.at/8qPjU
STEP 1. A FIND YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME AND CHOOSE A HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION
STEP 2. SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
STEP 3. A WAIT FOR THE RECOGNITION OF YOUR DOCUMENTS
STEP 4. A PREPARE FOR THE EXAMS AND INTERVIEW
STEP 5. A RECEIVE YOUR STUDY AGREEMENT AND PAY THE TUITION FEE
STEP 6. A MANAGE YOUR VISA OR RESIDENCE PERMIT
Find detailed instructions HERE https://www.studyinlatvia.lv/admission/application-guide
Visa and residence permit procedures vary depending on your citizenship. Please find below a brief overview of applicable procedures based on your country of citizenship.
For assistance with visas and residence permits, please contact the international office of the higher education institution (HEI) where you intend to study.
EU, EEA/Switzerland Citizens:
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens do not need to register with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA). They only require a valid travel document (passport or ID card) to enter Latvia under the following conditions:
• Admission to a HEI registered with the Register of education Institutions of the Republic of Latvia.
• Intended residence period does not exceed one year (refer to OCMA -> Residence permits).
Please note that in certain cases, such as opening a bank account, having a residence permit can be advantageous. For details on applying for a student residence permit as an EU citizen, please refer to OCMA information -> Registration cards for students.
Non-EU Nationals:
Non-EU nationals must determine if they require a visa to enter Latvia. Visa validity depends on individual circumstances. Detailed information is provided below.
Non-Visa Countries:
Certain non-EU nationals can enter Latvia without a visa and stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Please refer to the full list of countries whose citizens do not require a visa. Non-visa country citizens intending to stay in Latvia for more than 90 days must apply for a residence permit. Those enrolled in full-time studies at a registered HEI in Latvia can apply for residence based on their student status.
For information on applying for a student residence permit, please visit the OCMA website -> Residence permits. Note that visa or residence permit applications may take several weeks, so it’s advisable to start the application process early.
Visa Countries:
Citizens of countries requiring a visa to enter Latvia must apply at Latvian consular missions abroad or at consulates of other Schengen Member States authorised to process Schengen visa applications for Latvia. Please refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for relevant information and to locate Latvian Embassies.
For visa and residence permit applications, you can consult the international office of your HEI for details on procedures and required documents. The international office will guide you through the application process and provide information on study application requirements.
Countries Subject to Prior Consultation:
According to Article 22 of the Visa Code, certain countries or specific categories of citizens require prior consultation before a visa can be issued. For a list of these countries, please visit the relevant section on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. www.mfa.gov.lv/en
Make a financial plan:
Things to pack before departure
Essential:
Optional:
Finding a room that fits your budget and all your preferences can be challenging, so we recommend starting your search for accommodation as early as possible. As a student living in Latvia, you have two options – higher education institution’s (HEI’s) accommodation or private accommodation.
HEI-provided accommodation:
The Studyinlatvia.lv database offers information on accommodation options provided by each HEI. These can range from dormitories and hotels with shared or private rooms to apartments and student residences with private rooms. Contact the international student advisor at your chosen HEI for more detailed information about the accommodation options available.
Private accommodation:
It’s advisable to seek advice from the international student advisor at your chosen HEI, as navigating the housing market in Latvia can be difficult even for locals. Some HEI may have official partnerships with real estate agencies that can assist with private housing. Here are some additional places to search for private housing:
Housing or international student groups on Facebook – caution: potential scams!
The Latvian Student Union has published a “Student Housing Guide,” which provides detailed information about the accommodation process and offers valuable tips! You can access the guide here: https://shorturl.at/8qPjU
STEP 1. A FIND YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME AND CHOOSE A HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION
STEP 2. SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
STEP 3. A WAIT FOR THE RECOGNITION OF YOUR DOCUMENTS
STEP 4. A PREPARE FOR THE EXAMS AND INTERVIEW
STEP 5. A RECEIVE YOUR STUDY AGREEMENT AND PAY THE TUITION FEE
STEP 6. A MANAGE YOUR VISA OR RESIDENCE PERMIT
Find detailed instructions HERE https://www.studyinlatvia.lv/admission/application-guide
Visa and residence permit procedures vary depending on your citizenship. Please find below a brief overview of applicable procedures based on your country of citizenship.
For assistance with visas and residence permits, please contact the international office of the higher education institution (HEI) where you intend to study.
EU, EEA/Switzerland Citizens:
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens do not need to register with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA). They only require a valid travel document (passport or ID card) to enter Latvia under the following conditions:
• Admission to a HEI registered with the Register of education Institutions of the Republic of Latvia.
• Intended residence period does not exceed one year (refer to OCMA -> Residence permits).
Please note that in certain cases, such as opening a bank account, having a residence permit can be advantageous. For details on applying for a student residence permit as an EU citizen, please refer to OCMA information -> Registration cards for students.
Non-EU Nationals:
Non-EU nationals must determine if they require a visa to enter Latvia. Visa validity depends on individual circumstances. Detailed information is provided below.
Non-Visa Countries:
Certain non-EU nationals can enter Latvia without a visa and stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Please refer to the full list of countries whose citizens do not require a visa. Non-visa country citizens intending to stay in Latvia for more than 90 days must apply for a residence permit. Those enrolled in full-time studies at a registered HEI in Latvia can apply for residence based on their student status.
For information on applying for a student residence permit, please visit the OCMA website -> Residence permits. Note that visa or residence permit applications may take several weeks, so it’s advisable to start the application process early.
Visa Countries:
Citizens of countries requiring a visa to enter Latvia must apply at Latvian consular missions abroad or at consulates of other Schengen Member States authorised to process Schengen visa applications for Latvia. Please refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for relevant information and to locate Latvian Embassies.
For visa and residence permit applications, you can consult the international office of your HEI for details on procedures and required documents. The international office will guide you through the application process and provide information on study application requirements.
Countries Subject to Prior Consultation:
According to Article 22 of the Visa Code, certain countries or specific categories of citizens require prior consultation before a visa can be issued. For a list of these countries, please visit the relevant section on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. www.mfa.gov.lv/en
Make a financial plan:
Things to pack before departure
Essential:
Optional:
Finding a room that fits your budget and all your preferences can be challenging, so we recommend starting your search for accommodation as early as possible. As a student living in Latvia, you have two options – higher education institution’s (HEI’s) accommodation or private accommodation.
HEI-provided accommodation:
The Studyinlatvia.lv database offers information on accommodation options provided by each HEI. These can range from dormitories and hotels with shared or private rooms to apartments and student residences with private rooms. Contact the international student advisor at your chosen HEI for more detailed information about the accommodation options available.
Private accommodation:
It’s advisable to seek advice from the international student advisor at your chosen HEI, as navigating the housing market in Latvia can be difficult even for locals. Some HEI may have official partnerships with real estate agencies that can assist with private housing. Here are some additional places to search for private housing:
Housing or international student groups on Facebook – caution: potential scams!
The Latvian Student Union has published a “Student Housing Guide,” which provides detailed information about the accommodation process and offers valuable tips! You can access the guide here: https://shorturl.at/8qPjU
STEP 1. A FIND YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME AND CHOOSE A HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION
STEP 2. SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
STEP 3. A WAIT FOR THE RECOGNITION OF YOUR DOCUMENTS
STEP 4. A PREPARE FOR THE EXAMS AND INTERVIEW
STEP 5. A RECEIVE YOUR STUDY AGREEMENT AND PAY THE TUITION FEE
STEP 6. A MANAGE YOUR VISA OR RESIDENCE PERMIT
Find detailed instructions HERE https://www.studyinlatvia.lv/admission/application-guide
Visa and residence permit procedures vary depending on your citizenship. Please find below a brief overview of applicable procedures based on your country of citizenship.
For assistance with visas and residence permits, please contact the international office of the higher education institution (HEI) where you intend to study.
EU, EEA/Switzerland Citizens:
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens do not need to register with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA). They only require a valid travel document (passport or ID card) to enter Latvia under the following conditions:
• Admission to a HEI registered with the Register of education Institutions of the Republic of Latvia.
• Intended residence period does not exceed one year (refer to OCMA -> Residence permits).
Please note that in certain cases, such as opening a bank account, having a residence permit can be advantageous. For details on applying for a student residence permit as an EU citizen, please refer to OCMA information -> Registration cards for students.
Non-EU Nationals:
Non-EU nationals must determine if they require a visa to enter Latvia. Visa validity depends on individual circumstances. Detailed information is provided below.
Non-Visa Countries:
Certain non-EU nationals can enter Latvia without a visa and stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Please refer to the full list of countries whose citizens do not require a visa. Non-visa country citizens intending to stay in Latvia for more than 90 days must apply for a residence permit. Those enrolled in full-time studies at a registered HEI in Latvia can apply for residence based on their student status.
For information on applying for a student residence permit, please visit the OCMA website -> Residence permits. Note that visa or residence permit applications may take several weeks, so it’s advisable to start the application process early.
Visa Countries:
Citizens of countries requiring a visa to enter Latvia must apply at Latvian consular missions abroad or at consulates of other Schengen Member States authorised to process Schengen visa applications for Latvia. Please refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for relevant information and to locate Latvian Embassies.
For visa and residence permit applications, you can consult the international office of your HEI for details on procedures and required documents. The international office will guide you through the application process and provide information on study application requirements.
Countries Subject to Prior Consultation:
According to Article 22 of the Visa Code, certain countries or specific categories of citizens require prior consultation before a visa can be issued. For a list of these countries, please visit the relevant section on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. www.mfa.gov.lv/en
Make a financial plan:
Things to pack before departure
Essential:
Optional:
Finding a room that fits your budget and all your preferences can be challenging, so we recommend starting your search for accommodation as early as possible. As a student living in Latvia, you have two options – higher education institution’s (HEI’s) accommodation or private accommodation.
HEI-provided accommodation:
The Studyinlatvia.lv database offers information on accommodation options provided by each HEI. These can range from dormitories and hotels with shared or private rooms to apartments and student residences with private rooms. Contact the international student advisor at your chosen HEI for more detailed information about the accommodation options available.
Private accommodation:
It’s advisable to seek advice from the international student advisor at your chosen HEI, as navigating the housing market in Latvia can be difficult even for locals. Some HEI may have official partnerships with real estate agencies that can assist with private housing. Here are some additional places to search for private housing:
Housing or international student groups on Facebook – caution: potential scams!
The Latvian Student Union has published a “Student Housing Guide,” which provides detailed information about the accommodation process and offers valuable tips! You can access the guide here: https://shorturl.at/8qPjU
STEP 1. A FIND YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME AND CHOOSE A HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION
STEP 2. SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
STEP 3. A WAIT FOR THE RECOGNITION OF YOUR DOCUMENTS
STEP 4. A PREPARE FOR THE EXAMS AND INTERVIEW
STEP 5. A RECEIVE YOUR STUDY AGREEMENT AND PAY THE TUITION FEE
STEP 6. A MANAGE YOUR VISA OR RESIDENCE PERMIT
Find detailed instructions HERE https://www.studyinlatvia.lv/admission/application-guide
Visa and residence permit procedures vary depending on your citizenship. Please find below a brief overview of applicable procedures based on your country of citizenship.
For assistance with visas and residence permits, please contact the international office of the higher education institution (HEI) where you intend to study.
EU, EEA/Switzerland Citizens:
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens do not need to register with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA). They only require a valid travel document (passport or ID card) to enter Latvia under the following conditions:
• Admission to a HEI registered with the Register of education Institutions of the Republic of Latvia.
• Intended residence period does not exceed one year (refer to OCMA -> Residence permits).
Please note that in certain cases, such as opening a bank account, having a residence permit can be advantageous. For details on applying for a student residence permit as an EU citizen, please refer to OCMA information -> Registration cards for students.
Non-EU Nationals:
Non-EU nationals must determine if they require a visa to enter Latvia. Visa validity depends on individual circumstances. Detailed information is provided below.
Non-Visa Countries:
Certain non-EU nationals can enter Latvia without a visa and stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Please refer to the full list of countries whose citizens do not require a visa. Non-visa country citizens intending to stay in Latvia for more than 90 days must apply for a residence permit. Those enrolled in full-time studies at a registered HEI in Latvia can apply for residence based on their student status.
For information on applying for a student residence permit, please visit the OCMA website -> Residence permits. Note that visa or residence permit applications may take several weeks, so it’s advisable to start the application process early.
Visa Countries:
Citizens of countries requiring a visa to enter Latvia must apply at Latvian consular missions abroad or at consulates of other Schengen Member States authorised to process Schengen visa applications for Latvia. Please refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for relevant information and to locate Latvian Embassies.
For visa and residence permit applications, you can consult the international office of your HEI for details on procedures and required documents. The international office will guide you through the application process and provide information on study application requirements.
Countries Subject to Prior Consultation:
According to Article 22 of the Visa Code, certain countries or specific categories of citizens require prior consultation before a visa can be issued. For a list of these countries, please visit the relevant section on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. www.mfa.gov.lv/en
Make a financial plan:
Things to pack before departure
Essential:
Optional:
Finding a room that fits your budget and all your preferences can be challenging, so we recommend starting your search for accommodation as early as possible. As a student living in Latvia, you have two options – higher education institution’s (HEI’s) accommodation or private accommodation.
HEI-provided accommodation:
The Studyinlatvia.lv database offers information on accommodation options provided by each HEI. These can range from dormitories and hotels with shared or private rooms to apartments and student residences with private rooms. Contact the international student advisor at your chosen HEI for more detailed information about the accommodation options available.
Private accommodation:
It’s advisable to seek advice from the international student advisor at your chosen HEI, as navigating the housing market in Latvia can be difficult even for locals. Some HEI may have official partnerships with real estate agencies that can assist with private housing. Here are some additional places to search for private housing:
Housing or international student groups on Facebook – caution: potential scams!
The Latvian Student Union has published a “Student Housing Guide,” which provides detailed information about the accommodation process and offers valuable tips! You can access the guide here: https://shorturl.at/8qPjU
STEP 1. A FIND YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME AND CHOOSE A HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION
STEP 2. SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
STEP 3. A WAIT FOR THE RECOGNITION OF YOUR DOCUMENTS
STEP 4. A PREPARE FOR THE EXAMS AND INTERVIEW
STEP 5. A RECEIVE YOUR STUDY AGREEMENT AND PAY THE TUITION FEE
STEP 6. A MANAGE YOUR VISA OR RESIDENCE PERMIT
Find detailed instructions HERE https://www.studyinlatvia.lv/admission/application-guide
Visa and residence permit procedures vary depending on your citizenship. Please find below a brief overview of applicable procedures based on your country of citizenship.
For assistance with visas and residence permits, please contact the international office of the higher education institution (HEI) where you intend to study.
EU, EEA/Switzerland Citizens:
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens do not need to register with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA). They only require a valid travel document (passport or ID card) to enter Latvia under the following conditions:
• Admission to a HEI registered with the Register of education Institutions of the Republic of Latvia.
• Intended residence period does not exceed one year (refer to OCMA -> Residence permits).
Please note that in certain cases, such as opening a bank account, having a residence permit can be advantageous. For details on applying for a student residence permit as an EU citizen, please refer to OCMA information -> Registration cards for students.
Non-EU Nationals:
Non-EU nationals must determine if they require a visa to enter Latvia. Visa validity depends on individual circumstances. Detailed information is provided below.
Non-Visa Countries:
Certain non-EU nationals can enter Latvia without a visa and stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Please refer to the full list of countries whose citizens do not require a visa. Non-visa country citizens intending to stay in Latvia for more than 90 days must apply for a residence permit. Those enrolled in full-time studies at a registered HEI in Latvia can apply for residence based on their student status.
For information on applying for a student residence permit, please visit the OCMA website -> Residence permits. Note that visa or residence permit applications may take several weeks, so it’s advisable to start the application process early.
Visa Countries:
Citizens of countries requiring a visa to enter Latvia must apply at Latvian consular missions abroad or at consulates of other Schengen Member States authorised to process Schengen visa applications for Latvia. Please refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for relevant information and to locate Latvian Embassies.
For visa and residence permit applications, you can consult the international office of your HEI for details on procedures and required documents. The international office will guide you through the application process and provide information on study application requirements.
Countries Subject to Prior Consultation:
According to Article 22 of the Visa Code, certain countries or specific categories of citizens require prior consultation before a visa can be issued. For a list of these countries, please visit the relevant section on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. www.mfa.gov.lv/en
Make a financial plan:
Things to pack before departure
Essential:
Optional:
Finding a room that fits your budget and all your preferences can be challenging, so we recommend starting your search for accommodation as early as possible. As a student living in Latvia, you have two options – higher education institution’s (HEI’s) accommodation or private accommodation.
HEI-provided accommodation:
The Studyinlatvia.lv database offers information on accommodation options provided by each HEI. These can range from dormitories and hotels with shared or private rooms to apartments and student residences with private rooms. Contact the international student advisor at your chosen HEI for more detailed information about the accommodation options available.
Private accommodation:
It’s advisable to seek advice from the international student advisor at your chosen HEI, as navigating the housing market in Latvia can be difficult even for locals. Some HEI may have official partnerships with real estate agencies that can assist with private housing. Here are some additional places to search for private housing:
Housing or international student groups on Facebook – caution: potential scams!
The Latvian Student Union has published a “Student Housing Guide,” which provides detailed information about the accommodation process and offers valuable tips! You can access the guide here: https://shorturl.at/8qPjU
STEP 1. A FIND YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME AND CHOOSE A HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTION
STEP 2. SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
STEP 3. A WAIT FOR THE RECOGNITION OF YOUR DOCUMENTS
STEP 4. A PREPARE FOR THE EXAMS AND INTERVIEW
STEP 5. A RECEIVE YOUR STUDY AGREEMENT AND PAY THE TUITION FEE
STEP 6. A MANAGE YOUR VISA OR RESIDENCE PERMIT
Find detailed instructions HERE https://www.studyinlatvia.lv/admission/application-guide
Visa and residence permit procedures vary depending on your citizenship. Please find below a brief overview of applicable procedures based on your country of citizenship.
For assistance with visas and residence permits, please contact the international office of the higher education institution (HEI) where you intend to study.
EU, EEA/Switzerland Citizens:
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens do not need to register with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA). They only require a valid travel document (passport or ID card) to enter Latvia under the following conditions:
• Admission to a HEI registered with the Register of education Institutions of the Republic of Latvia.
• Intended residence period does not exceed one year (refer to OCMA -> Residence permits).
Please note that in certain cases, such as opening a bank account, having a residence permit can be advantageous. For details on applying for a student residence permit as an EU citizen, please refer to OCMA information -> Registration cards for students.
Non-EU Nationals:
Non-EU nationals must determine if they require a visa to enter Latvia. Visa validity depends on individual circumstances. Detailed information is provided below.
Non-Visa Countries:
Certain non-EU nationals can enter Latvia without a visa and stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Please refer to the full list of countries whose citizens do not require a visa. Non-visa country citizens intending to stay in Latvia for more than 90 days must apply for a residence permit. Those enrolled in full-time studies at a registered HEI in Latvia can apply for residence based on their student status.
For information on applying for a student residence permit, please visit the OCMA website -> Residence permits. Note that visa or residence permit applications may take several weeks, so it’s advisable to start the application process early.
Visa Countries:
Citizens of countries requiring a visa to enter Latvia must apply at Latvian consular missions abroad or at consulates of other Schengen Member States authorised to process Schengen visa applications for Latvia. Please refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for relevant information and to locate Latvian Embassies.
For visa and residence permit applications, you can consult the international office of your HEI for details on procedures and required documents. The international office will guide you through the application process and provide information on study application requirements.
Countries Subject to Prior Consultation:
According to Article 22 of the Visa Code, certain countries or specific categories of citizens require prior consultation before a visa can be issued. For a list of these countries, please visit the relevant section on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. www.mfa.gov.lv/en
Make a financial plan:
Things to pack before departure
Essential:
Optional:
Finding a room that fits your budget and all your preferences can be challenging, so we recommend starting your search for accommodation as early as possible. As a student living in Latvia, you have two options – higher education institution’s (HEI’s) accommodation or private accommodation.
HEI-provided accommodation:
The Studyinlatvia.lv database offers information on accommodation options provided by each HEI. These can range from dormitories and hotels with shared or private rooms to apartments and student residences with private rooms. Contact the international student advisor at your chosen HEI for more detailed information about the accommodation options available.
Private accommodation:
It’s advisable to seek advice from the international student advisor at your chosen HEI, as navigating the housing market in Latvia can be difficult even for locals. Some HEI may have official partnerships with real estate agencies that can assist with private housing. Here are some additional places to search for private housing:
Housing or international student groups on Facebook – caution: potential scams!
The Latvian Student Union has published a “Student Housing Guide,” which provides detailed information about the accommodation process and offers valuable tips! You can access the guide here: https://shorturl.at/8qPjU
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