There are various employment opportunities available for foreigners in Latvia, especially in the fields of IT, finance, tourism, and manufacturing. Specific professions that are in demand include software developers, IT specialists, financial analysts, customer service representatives, engineers, and English language teachers. In addition, there may be vacancies in startups and international organizations operating in Latvia. Foreigners are advised to explore job portals, recruitment agencies and professional networks to find suitable vacancies.
Here are some popular job portals in Latvia where you can search for vacancies:
CV-Online Latvia (www.cv.lv)
Prakse.lv (www.prakse.lv) - specializes in internships and entry-level vacancies
Jobs in Riga (www.jobsinriga.com)
CV Market (www.cvmarket.lv)
Manpower Latvia (www.manpower.lv)
Foreigners who come to Latvia to work can get a job for a short period of time. Usually, short-term work lasts up to three months. For short-term work, if the foreigner has the right to enter the country under the visa-free regime, no additional visa is required. Foreigners who cannot enter Latvia under the visa-free regime must apply for a visa.
Detailed information on the procedures and required documents can be found on the websites of the Migration Department: http://www.pmlp.gov.lv/ and the State Employment Agency: http://www.nva.gov.lv/
If you are a citizen of an EU/EEA country, you will only need to register your stay and place of residence with the Office for Citizenship and Migration.
If you are a citizen of one of the African countries and want to work in Latvia, you need to obtain an employment visa. In addition to an employment visa, you will also need a work permit issued by your Latvian employer and a residence permit in Latvia.
If you are a foreigner from a non-EU/EEA country and you want to work in Latvia, you need to obtain a work visa. In addition to the work visa, you will also need a work permit issued by your Latvian employer and a residence permit in Latvia.
Requirements for obtaining a work visa to Latvia
Documents required to obtain a work visa to Latvia
Valid passport.Your passport must be valid for at least three months after the visa expiration date.
Visa application form. The application form can be obtained online at the Electronic Visa Application Form service or at the embassy.
A permit with an OCMA decision.A document issued by the OCMA, not older than 6 months.
Two photos. Two recent passport-size color photos that meet the requirements for Schengen visa photos are required.
Proof of sufficient funds.Provide bank statements confirming that you have the necessary funds to live in Latvia.
Proof of housing availability.Submit a rental or lease agreement confirming the availability of housing for the duration of your stay in Latvia.
Booked tickets or flight itinerary.Submit confirmation of your flight to Latvia.
Conviction certificate. Submit a certificate of no criminal record issued by the police authorities in your country.
Confirmation of payment of the visa fee. Receipt of payment of the visa fee.
Proof of health insurance.You need travel health insurance valid throughout the Schengen area. After entering Latvia, you can apply for long-term health insurance, as you intend to live and work in this country.
Employment contract. You must provide a valid employment contract, which you must notarize or have approved by a public authority. The employment contract must specify your salary, which must be at least the minimum wage in Latvia.
Proof of qualifications and previous work experience.Submit all documents that confirm your qualifications - higher education diplomas, certificates, letters of recommendation from previous employers, etc.
For legal long-term employment in Latvia, you need to go through a certain procedure related to the State Employment Agency. Latvia, like all European countries, primarily provides employment privileges to its natives and EU citizens. Therefore, there is a 1-month waiting period that third-country nationals must go through before the employment agency approves their candidacy. The waiting period is due to the fact that the employer is obliged to post the available vacancy on the employment agency's website, and if no one responds to it within a month, he has the right to hire a foreigner. In addition to the permit, you also need to have an invitation from the employer. The invitation is approved by the competent authority within 2-7 days.
A visa is issued on the basis of the above documents for a period of stay of 1 year with the possibility of extension;
We would like to add that if the employer is satisfied with this candidate, he or she can apply for a 1-year work permit on a category D visa or a residence permit.
Family members of the main visa applicant
Your close relatives (parents, spouse, dependent children or dependent siblings) can join you in Latvia if you:
- You have a valid registration card.
- You have a temporary residence permit.
- We have completed immigration procedures.
In order for your family member to work or study in Latvia, you must submit an application to the Immigration Service.
Detailed information on the procedures and required documents can be found on the websites of the Migration Department: http://www.pmlp.gov.lv/ and the State Employment Agency: http://www.nva.gov.lv/
Most often, seasonal work requires workers in the field of agriculture, forestry, and tourism. Today, this category of vacancies remains in demand, but has its own periodic relevance, for example, planting is carried out in the spring, and harvesting is carried out in the summer and fall. The tourist season is also relevant in the summer. More details on the list regulating seasonal work can be found here: https://likumi.lv/doc.php?id=64019
To be able to work on a seasonal basis in Latvia, your employer must first register the required vacancy with the State Employment Agency and obtain its approval (the latter is issued after a period of 1 month if the vacancy remains unclaimed by Latvians and Europeans). Also, a potential employee needs to have an invitation from the employer or an employment contract, on the basis of which the visa application process takes place. A visa for seasonal employment is issued for a period of three months. When entering Latvia on the basis of a work visa, you need to apply for a work permit at the Office of Migration and Citizenship within three days. Detailed information on the required documents can be found on the website of the Office: http://www.pmlp.gov.lv/lv/sakums/pakalpojumi/iecelosana-lv/vizas,-ielugumi-un-uzaicinajumi/vizas-un-darba-atlaujas/
Starting a business in Latvia for a foreigner involves several steps:
Juridical structure:Determine the legal form for your business, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability company (LLC). The most common structure for foreign entrepreneurs is an LLC, which offers limited liability and flexibility.
Business Plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, target market, marketing strategies, financial projections, and operational details. A well-prepared business plan is crucial to obtaining financing and demonstrating the viability of your business.
Registration and permits: Register your business with the Latvian Commercial Register (www.ur.gov.lv). You will need to provide the necessary documents, including an identity card, proof of address, and detailed information about the business. In addition, certain types of business may require special permits or licenses, so research and comply with the relevant regulations.
Capital requirements:Make sure you have the necessary capital to start and maintain your business. There are no strict minimum capital requirements for limited liability companies in Latvia, but having enough funds to cover start-up costs and operating expenses is essential.
Taxation:Familiarize yourself with the Latvian tax system. Latvia has a competitive tax environment, including a flat corporate tax rate of 20% and a value-added tax (VAT) system. Consult a tax advisor to understand your tax obligations and optimize the tax efficiency of your business.
Financing and support: Explore the financing options available to foreign entrepreneurs in Latvia. The Latvian Investment and Development Agency (LIAA) and commercial banks offer various financing programs and support services for businesses. Research grants, loans and subsidies that may be available depending on your activity, industry or specific criteria.
Work and residence permit:If you are a non-EU citizen and plan to actively operate your business in Latvia, you may need a residence permit or a temporary residence permit to conduct business activities. Consult the Latvian Immigration Service or a lawyer to understand the requirements and application process.
Hiring employees: If you plan to hire employees, familiarize yourself with Latvian labor laws and employment regulations. Understand the rights and obligations of employers, including minimum wage requirements, working hours, and social security contributions.
If you are starting a business in Latvia as a foreigner, here are some useful resources to consider:
Latvian Investment and Development Agency (LIAA): LIAA is a state institution that provides comprehensive information, advice and support to foreign investors and entrepreneurs. Their website (www.liaa.gov.lv) offers valuable resources, including information on investment opportunities, business sectors, the legal and regulatory framework, and practical advice on starting a business in Latvia.
Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI): LCCI is a non-governmental organization that promotes and supports the interests of Latvian business. It offers assistance to foreign entrepreneurs and provides information on business regulations, networking opportunities, and market information. Their website (www.chamber.lv) contains useful resources for starting and running a business in Latvia.
Latvian Commercial Register: The Commercial Register of Latvia (www.ur.gov.lv) is the official database where businesses must register their company information. It provides information on legal requirements, registration procedures and forms required to start a business in Latvia.
Latvian Association of Startups (Startin.LV): If you are planning to start a startup in Latvia, Startin.LV (www.startin.lv) is a valuable resource. They offer support, mentoring, and networking opportunities for startups, and can provide guidance on navigating the startup ecosystem in Latvia.
Requirements for a business visa to Latvia
If you are applying for a visa to Latvia for the purpose of attending meetings with business representatives, participating in a scientific, educational, professional or corporate meeting or conference, registering real estate or concluding a contract in Latvia, you need to apply for a business visa to Latvia.
Documents required for obtaining a business visa to Latvia
When applying for a Latvian business visa, you must provide the following additional documents:
- An invitation letter from the Latvian company you will visit with a detailed address, accompanied by information about your identity and the dates of your visit.
- A letter from your employer. This letter must state the purpose of your trip to Latvia, where you will stay, and who will cover the travel expenses.
- Confirmation of financing of the trip. As for the applicant's expenses during his/her stay in Latvia, either the employer or the partner company must indicate in the letter or invitation that the expenses will be covered.
Latvian labor law regulates the rights and obligations of employers and employees in the country:
Employment contracts: Employment contracts are the basis of the relationship between employer and employee. Agreements must contain such essential terms as the position title, job responsibilities, working hours, duration of employment, compensation and benefits.
Working hours:The standard working week in Latvia is 40 hours, usually divided into five days. Overtime must be compensated in accordance with special rules.
Minimum wage: Latvia has a legally established minimum wage, which is periodically reviewed and adjusted by the government.
In 2024 the minimum wage in Latvia has increased to EUR 700 per month. This represents a significant rise from the previous minimum wage of EUR 620 per month.
Annual leave: Employees are entitled to annual paid leave, the duration of which usually depends on the length of their employment. The minimum annual vacation is usually four weeks.
Employee benefits: Latvian labor law provides various benefits for employees, including sick leave, maternity and paternity leave, and parental leave. These benefits provide employees with the necessary support during health or family-related circumstances.
Termination of employment: Termination of employment may occur in a variety of ways, including mutual agreement, expiration of a fixed-term contract, termination by either party with notice, or termination for serious reasons such as misconduct or economic necessity. Certain notice periods and procedures must be followed in accordance with labor laws.
Collective bargaining agreements: Collective bargaining agreements are concluded between employers or employers' associations and employee representatives or trade unions. These agreements may establish additional rights and obligations beyond those provided for by law.
Discrimination and equal opportunities: Latvian labor law prohibits discrimination in employment based on factors such as gender, age, disability, nationality and race. Employers are obliged to promote equal opportunities and fair treatment in the workplace.
If you are a foreigner looking for a job in Latvia, here are some tips to help you in your job search:
Study the labor market: Get to know the current state of the labor market in Latvia, including the industries that are growing and in demand. This will help you focus your job search and find suitable opportunities.
CV: Adapt your CV to Latvian standards. Emphasize your skills, qualifications and relevant work experience. If necessary, consider translating your resume into Latvian.
Networking: Build a professional network in Latvia by attending industry events, job fairs and networking events. Join professional groups on social media and establish connections with professionals in your field.
Use online job portals:Use Latvian job portals such as CV-Online Latvia, Prakse.lv and CV Market. Create profiles, upload your resume and regularly search and apply for relevant vacancies.
Research Companies:Find companies operating in Latvia that match your career interests and goals. Visit their websites, check for career sections or job listings and apply directly through their application system.
Learn the local language: While English is widely used in certain industries, knowing Latvian can be useful. Consider taking language courses or using online resources to improve your language skills.
Work permits and visas:Familiarize yourself with the requirements for obtaining a work permit and visa for foreigners in Latvia. Make sure you have the necessary documentation and fulfill the legal requirements to work in the country.
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