Overview — Latvia Golden Visa
Latvia's residency by investment programme is the most accessible route to EU residency in terms of minimum investment, with the business establishment route requiring just €50,000 in paid-up share capital. For investors who want EU and Schengen Area access at the lowest possible cost, Latvia is the rational starting point.
The Latvian residence permit grants Schengen Area travel rights and provides a pathway to EU permanent residency and, in the longer term, Latvian citizenship by naturalisation (which generally requires around 10 years of residence plus a Latvian language and history examination). Processing is fast — typically 1–2 months — and the documentation requirements are straightforward relative to larger EU programmes.
Latvia is an EU member state, NATO member, and eurozone country with a well-established legal system, a growing tech sector, and a central position in the Baltic business environment. For investors interested in Baltic or Eastern European market access, residency in Latvia provides a credible operational base.
Who qualifies
- Non-EU/EEA nationals aged 18 or older
- Ability to make the qualifying investment — business, real estate, or bank deposit
- Clean criminal record
- Health insurance valid in Latvia
- Spouse and minor children may be included
Investment routes
Company Establishment
EUR 50,000 share capital + EUR 10,000 state feeEstablish a Latvian company with at least €50,000 in paid-up share capital. The company must pay at least €40,000 in taxes annually to qualify for residency renewal. This is the most cost-effective route but requires an actively operating business.
Most affordable EU residency — €50K business investment
Real Estate Purchase
EUR 250,000 (outside Riga) / EUR 250,000 (Riga)Purchase of residential or commercial real estate worth at least €250,000. A 5% state fee is applied on the purchase. Property must be registered in Latvia.
Bank Deposit
EUR 280,000Placement of a subordinated deposit in a Latvian credit institution for 5 years. An annual fee is payable to the Latvian government.
Key benefits
- Most affordable EU residency via business route from €50,000
- Schengen Area visa-free travel for residents
- Fast processing — residence permit in 1–2 months
- Path to EU permanent residency and citizenship
- Straightforward annual renewal process
How we process your application
Route Selection
We advise on the business vs real estate vs deposit route based on your investment goals. For the business route, we coordinate with a Latvian company formation specialist.
Investment Execution
Company incorporation, property purchase, or deposit placement is completed.
Residence Permit Application
Application submitted to the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA) of Latvia.
Biometrics
Biometric data collected at the Latvian Embassy/Consulate or in Latvia. One visit is typically required.
Permit Issuance
Temporary residence permit issued within 30 days of the application decision — typically 1–2 months from submission.
Renewal & Pathway
Annual renewal confirming investment maintenance. EU permanent residency can be sought after 5 years; Latvian citizenship by naturalisation generally requires around 10 years of residence plus a Latvian language and history examination.
Why apply with Avyanco
Frequently asked questions
What does the €50,000 business route actually require?
Does Latvia require a minimum stay?
How does Latvia compare to Greece and Portugal?
Reviewed by
Jashvantkumar Prajapati
Founder & CEO, Avyanco — 21+ years in global mobility advisory