Afortis provides legal and administrative assistance: we prepare and file your application. Applications are decided by the Latvian migration authority (OCMA), not by Afortis.
General Information About Family Reunification in Latvia
Latvia allows foreign nationals to obtain a Latvia residence permit as a family member through reunification. Spouses, children, parents, and certain dependent relatives can all apply to live legally with their family member in Latvia.
The process is governed by the Immigration Law of the Republic of Latvia and administered by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (PMLP).
Family reunification can be requested when the sponsor in Latvia holds one of the following statuses:
- Latvian citizen
- Latvian non-citizen
- permanent residence permit
- temporary residence permit in Latvia
- EU Blue Card
- EU citizenship with registered residence in Latvia
Overview
- General Information About Family Reunification in Latvia
- Who Can Apply for a Family Reunification Residence Permit in Latvia
- Financial and Accommodation Requirements
- Duration of the Residence Permit
- What the Permit Covers
- Processing Time
- Documents Required for a Family Reunification Residence Permit in Latvia
- Legal Considerations
Who Is It For
Who Can Apply for a Family Reunification Residence Permit in Latvia
The following family members may qualify for a Latvia residence permit through family reunification:
spouse
minor children
dependent children
parents, in cases specified by law
guardians or persons under guardianship
other dependent family members, in certain circumstances
PMLP assesses each case individually. The factors considered include the nature of the family relationship, financial dependency, the sponsor’s immigration status, and whether the available accommodation is adequate.
Requirements
Financial and Accommodation Requirements
The sponsor must show PMLP four things: sufficient financial means to support the family, a legal source of income, accommodation that fits the whole household, and a valid declaration of residence in Latvia. In practice, the declaration of residence is something applicants frequently overlook — without it, PMLP will not accept the application.
Migration authorities may also look at the stability of income, the history of previous immigration applications, and whether the family relationship is genuine.
Duration of the Residence Permit
The permit issued through family reunification typically runs for the same period as the sponsor’s own permit. It can be renewed as long as the underlying conditions still hold.
After five years of continuous legal residence in Latvia and compliance with immigration requirements, family members become eligible to apply for permanent residence.
Advantages
What the Permit Covers
A residence permit through family reunification gives you
Family members of EU Blue Card holders may receive broader employment rights under EU legislation.
Process
Processing Time
The standard processing period is up to 90 days. An expedited procedure is available for an additional state fee and can reduce that timeline considerably. The exact timing depends on the applicant’s nationality, the security checks required, and whether the submitted documents are complete on first submission.
Required Documents
Documents Required for a Family Reunification Residence Permit in Latvia
The standard document set for joining a family member in Latvia includes:
Additional documents may be requested depending on the applicant’s nationality and specific family circumstances.
valid passport
completed residence permit application form
documents confirming the family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.)
proof of sufficient financial means
confirmation of accommodation in Latvia
medical insurance
criminal record certificate, where applicable
documents issued abroad, with apostille or legalisation where required
Legal Considerations
PMLP has the right to verify the authenticity of the marriage or family relationship, actual cohabitation, dependency status, and compliance with immigration rules. Submitting false information or fabricating family grounds will result in refusal or cancellation of the permit.
Reach Out
Leave your details and our lawyer will get back to you within one business day.
