Published on
October 11, 2025
If you are considering relocating to Europe, you cannot go wrong with Latvia. The country happens to have one of the most appealing and easily accessible Residence by Investment Programs. Latvia has become a favorite among investors and their families, standing out even more with access to the whole Schengen Area. What exactly makes Latvia special for its tourists and travelers? Let’s discover the possibilities.
Latvia’s Golden Visa: An Overview
Launched in July 2010, Latvia’s Residence by Investment Program was created as a response to the economic challenges faced by the country during the global financial crisis. The initiative was designed to bring in foreign investment to help boost the Latvian economy. Over the years, it has proven successful, generating over EUR 1.3 billion, with the majority stemming from foreign investments in real estate.
Through this program, non-EU nationals can obtain residence permits in Latvia by making a financial investment. This opens the door to visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, allowing the holder to freely visit, work, and study within 27 European countries. It has become a sought-after option for investors, retirees, and families seeking a more flexible and accessible way into Europe.
Investment Options: A Range of Pathways
Latvia’s residence by investment offers several routes for applicants, giving them a choice in how they want to contribute financially to the country:
Corporate Investment: By investing EUR 50,000 into a Latvian company, which must pay at least EUR 40,000 in taxes annually, applicants can gain residency. Along with this, a one-time state fee of EUR 10,000 is required.Real Estate Acquisition: This is one of the most popular routes, where an applicant purchases a property valued at a minimum of EUR 250,000. There’s an additional 5% state fee on the property value.Subordinated Bank Deposit or Government Bonds: Making a subordinated loan or investing in certain government bonds can also qualify you for residency.
These pathways give potential investors flexibility, allowing them to choose the investment method that best suits their financial situation and goals.
Family-Friendly Program
One of the standout features of Latvia’s Residence by Investment Program is that it allows family members to join the main applicant. Spouses and children under 18 are eligible to apply for residence permits alongside the primary applicant. This makes it an attractive option for families looking to settle in Europe.
Once approved, the family must visit Latvia within three months to collect their temporary residence permit, which is issued as an ID card. This permit is initially valid for five years, with the option for annual renewal.
Minimal Residency Requirement: Flexibility for Travelers
Unlike other European countries, Latvia does not impose strict minimum stay requirements for its residence holders. This is particularly advantageous for global investors or individuals who need to travel frequently for business or personal reasons. Applicants do not have to spend a specific number of days in Latvia each year, offering a significant amount of freedom and flexibility.
For those who wish to make Latvia their main base, they can spend time exploring the country or visiting other Schengen Area nations. With Latvia’s central location on the Baltic Coast, it offers quick and easy access to neighboring countries such as Estonia, Lithuania, and Russia, making it a perfect hub for tourists and travelers.
Easy Travel Across the Schengen Area
Latvia’s membership in the Schengen Area means that residents can enjoy visa-free access to 26 countries across Europe. This is one of the major draws for investors, as it opens the door to an incredibly rich variety of travel experiences, all while living in a country with a high standard of living.
For tourists, this is an enticing benefit. Imagine spending a few months in Latvia, enjoying its rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning natural landscapes, while also easily hopping on a plane or train to visit cities like Paris, Rome, or Berlin—all within a couple of hours. Traveling across Europe becomes a breeze, allowing for a truly immersive European experience.
Benefits Beyond Travel: Long-Term Security in Europe
For those looking for a more permanent residence in Europe, Latvia’s program provides the opportunity to apply for permanent residency after five years of holding a residence permit. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate basic knowledge of the Latvian language (Level A2), as well as a general understanding of the country’s history and national anthem.
Moreover, after ten years of legal residence, applicants may qualify for Latvian citizenship, which comes with the added benefit of voting rights and unrestricted access to all EU member states. This is a significant perk for anyone looking to gain long-term security and access to the full range of opportunities within the European Union.
Why Latvia Stands Out as a European Gateway
Latvia offers one of the lowest investment thresholds in Europe for residency, with the minimum investment set at EUR 60,000. This makes it a competitive option compared to other European golden visa programs, which often have much higher financial requirements.
In addition to its affordability, Latvia’s strategic location in the Baltic region provides access not only to the Schengen Area but also to neighboring countries like Russia and Belarus, making it an appealing option for individuals looking to do business or travel in these regions.
Latvia also boasts a high standard of living at a relatively affordable cost compared to more expensive Western European nations. The capital city, Riga, offers a vibrant cultural scene, excellent public transport, and a rich history, all within a highly livable urban environment. For tourists, this translates into easy travel options, rich cultural experiences, and the chance to explore the beautiful landscapes of Latvia, from its charming medieval towns to serene coastlines.
An Ideal Destination for Travelers and Investors Alike
Latvia is one of the most attractive countries to obtain the Golden Visa in Europe. Latvia has one of the most affordable Golden Visa programs in Europe. Especially since it allows you to travel to any Schengen country with your Latvian Golden Visa while also requiring minimal stay in the country. Added to the fact that you can include your family to your Golden Visa, Latvia indeed is one of the most family-friendly Golden Visas programs.
Latvia is also a great country to live in and it opens doors to the rest of Europe. Especially since it is located in the Baltic region. It’s potential to unlock EU citizenship and residency means its opportunities are hard to pass. Especially with affordable residency requirements and investments. Latvia has also outstanding abilities to combine the historic with the modern in a captivating way.
