Work Latvia

For legal employment in Latvia, citizens of third countries need to obtain a work permit and the appropriate visa or residence permit. The process includes several key stages:

1. Finding an employer and arranging an invitation:

Job registration: The employer must register the job vacancy with the Latvian State Employment Agency and ensure there are no suitable candidates from Latvia or other EU countries.

Issuing an invitation: After selecting a candidate, the employer submits an invitation to the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, attaching a draft employment contract and documents confirming the qualifications of the foreign worker.

2. Submitting a visa application:

Type of visa: A long-term visa category D is required for work in Latvia.

Necessary documents:

A valid passport.

Completed visa application form.

Passport-sized photographs.

Proof of medical insurance.

Documents confirming qualifications and work experience.

Invitation from the employer approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs.

Proof of financial means for the duration of stay.

Receipt of payment for the consular fee.

Submitting documents: The application is submitted to the Latvian consulate in the applicant's country of residence.

3. Obtaining a residence permit and work permit:

Submitting an application: After entering Latvia, you must contact the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs within three working days to arrange a temporary residence permit and work permit.

Features:

Minimum wage: For foreign workers, minimum wage levels are set, which may vary depending on the profession and qualifications.

Regulated professions: For some professions, qualification recognition in Latvia or passing additional exams is required.

Exceptions: Some categories of foreign citizens, such as spouses of Latvian citizens or holders of permanent residence permits, may be exempt from the need to obtain a separate work permit.

It is important to note that the process of obtaining a work permit and residence permit in Latvia can be complex and require careful preparation of documents. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with current requirements in advance and, if necessary, seek consultation from specialists in migration law.

Employment in Latvia for citizens of the European Union and citizens of third countries (non-EU) is regulated by different legal norms, which determines differences in procedures and requirements for both categories.

European Union Citizens

Freedom of movement and employment: EU citizens have the right to freely move, reside, and work in Latvia without the need for a special work permit or visa. This right is enshrined in EU and Latvian legislation.

Residence registration: If an EU citizen plans to stay in Latvia for more than 90 days, they must register with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs and obtain a registration certificate.

Third Country Citizens

Need for a work permit and residence permit: Citizens of non-EU countries are required to obtain a work permit and a temporary residence permit for legal employment in Latvia.

Features for highly qualified specialists

EU Blue Card: Highly qualified specialists from third countries may apply for the “EU Blue Card” — a special type of residence permit for work in Latvia. This requires higher education and an employment contract with a salary exceeding the national average by at least 1.5 times.

Exceptions and special cases

Seasonal workers: Special conditions for employment are provided for seasonal workers from third countries, including obtaining a special seasonal work visa. The maximum stay with such a visa is 9 months within a 12-month period.

Family circumstances: Family members of EU citizens or holders of Latvian residence permits may have simplified procedures for obtaining a work permit and residence in Latvia.

It is recommended to familiarize yourself with current requirements in advance and, if necessary, seek consultation from specialists in migration law.

Job searching in Latvia requires a systematic approach and the use of various resources.

Use of online platforms 

VisiDarbi.lv: One of the largest job portals in Latvia, offering a wide range of opportunities across various professions and regions.

CV.lv: A platform providing up-to-date vacancies from leading employers, as well as the option to post your resume to attract potential employers.

SS.lv: The "Jobs and Business" section on this site contains daily updates of vacancies in various fields.

Layboard.com: An international portal with vacancies in Latvia, including offers with accommodation and for foreign citizens.

Approaching employment agencies

WORK IN Agency: Specializes in staffing and employment of foreign citizens in Latvia, providing support in obtaining the necessary documents and visas.

LegLat: Provides services for the official employment of foreigners, including obtaining a work permit and residence permit.

Direct contact with employers

Many companies publish job openings on their official websites. It is recommended to regularly visit the "Careers" or "Vacancies" sections on the websites of interested organizations.

Social networks and professional communities

LinkedIn: An international platform for professionals where employers post vacancies, and job seekers can present their resumes and establish business contacts.

Facebook groups: There are specialized groups dedicated to employment in Latvia, where vacancies and job search advice are regularly posted.

Public employment services:

The State Employment Agency of Latvia: Provides information on vacancies, training and retraining programs, and consultations on employment issues.

Participating in job fairs and professional events

Regular attendance at career fairs, seminars, and conferences allows direct contact with employers and learning about new employment opportunities.

Preparing a quality resume and cover letter

It is recommended to adapt your resume to Latvian standards, highlighting key skills, work experience, and education. The cover letter should reflect motivation and matching the requirements of the specific vacancy.

Considering the features of labor legislation

Foreign citizens need to familiarize themselves with the rules for obtaining a work permit and residence permit in Latvia. Some agencies, such as LegLat, offer assistance in processing the necessary documents.

Employment in Latvia for foreign citizens requires compliance with certain requirements regarding language proficiency, qualifications, and other aspects.

Language requirements

Latvian language: Latvian is the state language of Latvia, and knowledge of it is often required for most positions, especially those involving customer interaction or work in public institutions. The level of language proficiency depends on the job specifics; for some professions, a basic level may suffice, while for others, an advanced level is needed. There are categories of Latvian language proficiency, and to obtain a permanent residence permit, at least an A2 level is required.

Foreign languages: In international companies and fields oriented towards tourists, knowledge of English and/or other languages can be advantageous. However, from September 2024, amendments to the Labor Law in Latvia have been introduced, according to which employers cannot require employees to know foreign languages without objective necessity.

Qualification requirements

Education and work experience: Employers usually have requirements for education and professional experience corresponding to the position. For highly qualified positions, higher education and significant work experience may be required.

Recognition of qualifications: If your professional qualification was obtained outside Latvia, its recognition in the country may be necessary. This is especially relevant for regulated professions such as medicine, law, and engineering.

Additional Requirements

Medical Insurance: Foreign workers are required to have valid medical insurance for the duration of their stay in Latvia.

Criminal Record Certificate: In some cases, a certificate of no criminal record from the country of residence may be required.

Consulting specialized agencies or legal advisors can ease the process of preparing and processing documents.

In Latvia, the demand for skilled and unskilled labor varies depending on the industry and economic trends.

Information and Communication Technology 

Skilled Labor: There is a high demand for artificial intelligence specialists, mobile app developers, and data engineers. According to the consulting firm Figure Baltic Advisory, these professions remain among the highest paid in Latvia's labor market.

Construction

Skilled Labor: Civil engineers, architects, and building modeling specialists are needed. In 2023, new professions were added to the Latvian profession classifier, such as flight test engineers and construction modeling technicians, indicating a growing demand in this field.

Unskilled Labor: Concrete workers, carpenters, finishers, and laborers are in demand. The State Employment Agency annually includes these professions on the list of the most in demand.

Healthcare

Skilled Labor: There is a need for doctors, nurses, and physiotherapists. The Ministry of Economics forecasts an increase in demand for healthcare specialists until 2040.

Manufacturing and Industry

Skilled Labor: Engineers, technologists, and automation specialists are needed. According to forecasts, the demand for highly skilled professionals in these industries will grow until 2040.

Unskilled Labor: Production line operators and assemblers are in demand.

Logistics and Transportation

Skilled Labor: Logistics specialists, dispatchers, and supply chain managers are needed.

Unskilled Labor: Drivers, couriers, and warehouse workers are required.

Education:

Skilled Labor: The demand for teachers, especially in STEM disciplines (science, technology, engineering, mathematics), continues to grow.

Service Sector:

Unskilled Labor: Salespeople, waiters, cleaners, and hotel staff are in demand.

For successful employment, it is recommended to regularly monitor labor market trends and, if necessary, upgrade skills.

Latvia's pension system is a three-tier structure aimed at providing a stable income for citizens in old age. 

First Tier: State compulsory non-funded pension system

This tier is based on the intergenerational solidarity principle, where current workers fund the pensions of current retirees through social contributions. Every insured person who pays social insurance contributions participates in this system. The amount of the future pension depends on the amount of contributions paid and the accumulated insurance period.

Second Tier: State funded pension system

The second tier is mandatory for those born after July 1, 1971. Part of the social contributions is directed to individual accounts of the participants and invested in chosen investment plans. This allows the pension capital to increase through investment returns.

Third Tier: Private voluntary pension scheme

The third tier provides the option of voluntary additional pension savings through private pension funds. Contributions can be made by the individual or their employer. The funds are invested in financial markets, and the savings can be accessed starting at age 55. Participation in this tier also provides tax benefits.

Retirement Age and Insurance Period

As of January 1, 2025, the retirement age in Latvia is set at 65. To receive an old-age pension, a minimum insurance period of 20 years is required. There is an option for early retirement two years before the established age, provided there is at least 30 years of insurance period. In this case, the pension is paid at 50% until reaching the full retirement age.

Minimum Pension Size

The minimum old-age pension size depends on the accumulated insurance period. For example, with 15 years of service, the minimum pension is 149.60 euros, and with 30 years of service, it is 190.40 euros.

Features for Foreign Citizens

Foreign citizens residing and working in Latvia legally are entitled to pension benefits, provided they meet certain conditions, such as reaching the retirement age and having the necessary insurance period. Latvia recognizes periods of insurance accumulated in other European Union countries, allowing them to be summed when calculating pensions.

Additional Benefits for Pensioners

Pensioners in Latvia can avail themselves of various benefits, including discounts on healthcare services, public transport, and other social privileges. The size and availability of benefits may depend on specific conditions and local regulations.

Thus, Latvia's three-tier pension system combines mandatory governmental and voluntary private accumulation mechanisms, enabling citizens to plan and shape their financial well-being in retirement.

In Latvia, the state social insurance system aims to provide citizens with financial support in various life situations by covering certain social risks. The main types of social insurance include:

Pension insurance

State pension insurance: Provides pensions for old age, disability, and in case of a breadwinner's loss. The pension amount depends on the total social contributions paid and the accrued insurance period.

Unemployment insurance

Unemployment benefit: Offered to individuals who have lost their jobs and are registered with the State Employment Agency. The benefit amount depends on previous earnings and the length of the insurance period.

Accident insurance at work and occupational disease insurance

Compensation for loss of work capacity: Paid in case of loss of work capacity due to a workplace accident or occupational disease.

Sick pay: Provided for the period of treatment and recovery after a workplace accident or occupational disease.

Disability insurance:

Disability pension: Granted to individuals recognized as disabled, depending on the degree of work capacity loss and the insurance period.

Sickness and Maternity insurance

Sickness benefit: Paid in case of temporary work incapacity due to illness.

Maternity benefit: Provided to women during pre- and post-natal leave.

Childcare benefit: Paid to one of the parents or guardians for caring for a child up to a certain age.

Childcare insurance

Childcare benefit: Intended for parents or guardians caring for a child, payable until the child reaches a certain age.

To be eligible for these social benefits, mandatory state social insurance contributions must be paid. The amount and terms of contributions depend on the type of employment and income.

More detailed information on types of social insurance and the respective benefits can be obtained from the official website of the Latvian Ministry of Welfare.

In Latvia, labor relations are governed by the "Labor Law," which establishes the rules for dismissals, leaves, including childcare leave, and also defines public holidays.

Dismissal

Termination of employment can be initiated either by the employee or the employer.

By the employee's initiative: The employee is required to notify the employer in writing no later than one month before the proposed date of dismissal, unless otherwise specified in the employment contract or collective agreement.

By the employer's initiative: The employer may terminate the employment contract for certain reasons specified by law, such as company liquidation, staff reduction, or mismatch of the employee to the position held. In such cases, the employer must notify the employee in advance:

- For 1 month, if the length of service with the employer is less than five years.

- For 2 months, if the length of service is between five and ten years.

- For 3 months, if the length of service exceeds ten years.

When dismissed at the initiative of the employer, the employee is paid severance pay, the amount of which depends on the length of employment.

Annual Paid Leave

Every employee is entitled to annual paid leave of at least four calendar weeks, excluding public holidays. For employees younger than 18 years, the leave is one month.

Split Leave: With the consent of both parties, the leave may be split into parts, however, one of the parts must be at least two continuous calendar weeks.

Carrying Over Leave: If the employee cannot use the leave in the current year due to production necessity, with their written consent, part of the leave can be carried over to the following year, but not more than one year.

Parental Leave

Parents are entitled to parental leave until the child reaches the age of three. This leave can be used fully or in parts, and can be taken by either the mother or the father of the child. During parental leave, the employee retains their job position, and after the leave ends, they have the right to return to their previous position.

Public Holidays

The following official public holidays are established in Latvia:

1 January — New Year

Good Friday and Easter Monday (dates vary annually)

1 May — Labour Day

4 May — Restoration of Independence Day of the Republic of Latvia

23 June — Ligo

24 June — John’s Day

18 November — Proclamation Day of the Republic of Latvia

24, 25 and 26 December — Christmas Holidays

31 December — New Year's Eve

If a public holiday coincides with a weekend, no additional day off is granted. However, annual paid leave is extended for the number of public holidays falling within the leave period.

It should be noted that labor legislation in Latvia is regularly updated. For example, starting October 22, 2024, changes regarding requirements for foreign language proficiency at the workplace came into effect. Employers are required to justify the necessity of foreign language knowledge for job responsibilities, especially if the work is related to the internal market of Latvia.

For up-to-date information, it is recommended to refer to official sources such as the State Labour Inspectorate of Latvia.

In Latvia, professional unions play a key role in protecting the labor, economic, and social rights of workers. They represent the interests of their members in negotiations with employers, government bodies, and other organizations, contributing to the improvement of working conditions and ensuring fair compensation.

Main Professional Unions in Latvia

The Free Trade Union Confederation of Latvia: The largest union federation in the country, encompassing 20 sectoral organizations.

Represents the interests of workers at national and international levels, participates in the development of socio-economic programs and legislative initiatives.

Member organizations cover various sectors, including construction, healthcare, education, and transport.

The "LABA" Trade Union: A voluntary association created to protect the labor, economic, and social rights of workers.

Actively participates in negotiations with employers, providing legal support and consultation to members.

Role and Benefits of Professional Unions

Protection of Workers' Rights: Unions represent the interests of their members in negotiations with employers, seeking better working conditions, higher wages, and social guarantees.

Legal Support: Union members receive advice on labor law issues, assistance in resolving labor disputes, and protection in cases of unlawful actions by the employer.

Collective Agreements: Unions participate in concluding collective agreements that establish additional benefits and guarantees for workers, exceeding the minimum standards provided by law.

Training and Development: Many unions organize trainings, seminars, and educational programs to enhance the qualifications and professional development of their members.

Social Dialogue: Unions actively participate in tripartite negotiations with the government and employers, influencing the formation of labor policies and socio-economic programs.

Joining a professional union provides workers with additional protection and support mechanisms, promotes better working conditions, and enhances quality of life. For immigrants, union participation can be especially beneficial, providing access to information about labor rights and opportunities to integrate into Latvian society.

Organizational and Legal Forms of Enterprises

Sole Proprietor: Suitable for small businesses where the owner bears full responsibility for obligations.

Limited Liability Company: The most common form for small and medium businesses. The minimum share capital is 2800 euros. Founders bear liability within their contribution to the share capital.

Joint Stock Company: Intended for large businesses. The minimum share capital is 35,000 euros. Shares can be publicly traded.

Individual Enterprise: A form where the owner bears full responsibility for the obligations of the enterprise.

Tax System

Corporate Profit Tax: The rate is 20%. However, undistributed profits are not taxed; tax is paid only upon profit distribution as dividends.

Value Added Tax: The standard rate is 21%, with reduced rates of 12% and 5% for certain goods and services.

Microenterprise Tax: A special regime for small enterprises with an annual turnover of up to 100,000 euros and up to 5 employees. The tax rate is 15% of turnover. However, since 2017, the application of this regime has been limited for certain sectors.

Business Conduct Features

Language Requirements: The official language is Latvian. Documentation and business correspondence are conducted in Latvian. However, English and Russian are widely used in the business environment.

Bank Accounts: Opening a bank account may take some time due to verification procedures. It is recommended to prepare all necessary documents in advance and be ready to provide additional information upon the bank's request.

Labor Legislation: Employers are required to comply with labor legislation norms, including concluding employment contracts, adhering to minimum wage laws, and providing social guarantees for employees.

Advantages of Doing Business in Latvia

Strategic Location: Latvia is located at the crossroads of trade routes between Western Europe and the CIS countries, providing convenient access to various markets.

EU Membership: Entrepreneurs gain access to the European single market and can benefit from the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor.

Favorable Tax Regime: The absence of tax on undistributed profits and the possibility of applying special tax regimes make Latvia attractive for doing business.

Considering these features, Latvia offers favorable conditions for conducting entrepreneurial activities, especially for small and medium businesses. However, before starting operations, it is recommended to thoroughly study legislative requirements and, if necessary, consult with local experts.