Exercise normal precautions in Latvia.
Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to Latvia:
6 months recommended.
One page per entry stamp.
Not required for stays less than 90 days within a six month period.
None
10,000 Euros or equivalent
10,000 Euros or equivalent
Samnera Velsa iela 1
Riga LV-1510
Latvia
Telephone: +(371) 6710-7000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(371) 6710-7000 or +(371) 2920-5708
Fax: +(371) 6710-7001
For information on U.S. – Latvian relations see the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Latvia.
Latvia is a party to the Schengen Agreement. Visit the Embassy of Latvia website for the most current visa information.
HIV/AIDS RESTRICTIONS: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Latvia.
Information about dual nationality, or prevention of international child abduction can be found on our website. For further information about customs regulations, please read our customs information page.
Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possibly near term attacks in Europe. All European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant with regard to their personal security.
To stay connected:
CRIME: Crime is generally non-violent in nature; however, violent assaults and robberies have occurred. Harassment of foreigners and same sex partners has also occurred in Latvia.
VICTIMS OF CRIME: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime abroad, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. We can:
The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in Latvia is 112, which can be called for fire and police assistance. The primary number for ambulance services is 113, but the 112 operator can also help dispatch an ambulance. 112 operators speak English, Latvian and Russian.
Please see our information for victims of crime, including possible victim compensation programs in the United States. Please remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.
Please see our information on victims of crime, including possible victim compensation programs in the United States.
CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While you are traveling in Latvia, you are subject to its laws.
Regardless of local law, you can be prosecuted in the United States under U.S. law if you:
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested, you should ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Latvia is part of the Eurozone and only euros are accepted.
Customs: Latvian customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Latvia of items such as firearms, religious materials, antiquities, medications, business equipment, drugs, etc.
WOMEN TRAVELERS: If you are a woman traveling abroad, please review our travel tips for Women Travelers.
LGBTI RIGHTS: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Latvia.
See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of the Department of State's Human Rights Report for further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Latvia, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different than in the United States.
The quality of medical care in Latvia continues to improve, but still often falls short of western standards. Latvia has highly trained medical professionals, but hospitals and clinics still suffer from a lack of equipment and resources.
Prescription Medicines: Pharmaceuticals sold in Latvia are produced by companies certified in accordance with EU standards, but may not necessarily be labeled the same as in the United States.
Local Health Concerns:
You can find detailed information on vaccinations and other health precautions on the CDC website. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website, which contains additional health information for travelers, including detailed country-specific health information.
MEDICAL INSURANCE: You can’t assume your insurance will cover you when you travel. It’s very important to find out BEFORE you leave whether your medical insurance will cover you overseas. You need to ask your insurance company two questions:
In many places, doctors and hospitals still expect payment in cash at the time of service. Your regular U.S. health insurance may not cover doctor and hospital visits in other countries or may not make timely payments for services provided. If your policy doesn’t cover you when you travel, it’s a very good idea to take out additional coverage for your trip. For more information, please see our medical insurance overseas page.
TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in Latvia, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States.
Traffic Laws:
Public Transportation:
Please refer to our road safety page. for more information. We also suggest that you visit the website of the Latvian Tourism Board or visit the website for the Ministry of Transport and Mobility for more information on driving in Latvia.
AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Latvia, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Government of Latvia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.
Samnera Velsa iela 1
Riga LV-1510
Latvia
Telephone: +(371) 6710-7000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(371) 6710-7000 or +(371) 2920-5708
Fax: +(371) 6710-7001
Samnera Velsa iela 1
Riga LV-1510
Latvia
Telephone: +(371) 6710-7000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(371) 6710-7000 or +(371) 2920-5708
Fax: +(371) 6710-7001
Latvia and the United States have been treaty partners under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention) since May 1, 2007.
For information concerning travel to Latvia, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for Latvia.
The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.
The U.S. Department of State serves as the U.S. Central Authority (USCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention. In this capacity, the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children’s Issues facilitates the submission of applications under the Hague Abduction Convention for the return of, or access to, children located in countries that are U.S. treaty partners, including Latvia. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority.
Contact information:
U.S. Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children's
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Website: travel.state.gov
Email: AskCI@state.gov
The Latvian Central Authority for the Hague Abduction Convention is the Children Affairs Cooperation Division within the Ministry of Justice. The Latvian Central Authority has an administrative role in processing the Hague Abduction Convention applications, which involves reviewing applications for completeness, exploring possible voluntary solutions if appropriate, and submitting applications to the appropriate court. The Latvian Central Authority (LCA) can be reached at:
Ministry of Justice
Children Affairs Cooperation Division
Brivibas Blvd. 36
Riga, LV-1536
Latvia
Telephone: +371 6703 6801
Fax: +371 6721 0823
E-mail: tm.kanceleja@tm.gov.lv
Website:
To initiate a Hague case for return of, or access to, a child in Latvia, the USCA encourages a parent or legal guardian to review the eligibility criteria and instructions for completing the Hague application form located at the Department of State website and contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the LCA. The USCA is available to answer questions about the Hague application process, to forward a completed application to the LCA, and to subsequently monitor its progress through the foreign administrative and legal processes.
There are no fees for filing Hague applications with either the United States or Latvian central authorities. The LCA assigns a pro bono (no fee) attorney to represent parents making an application for return or access under the Hague Abduction Convention. Additional costs may include airplane tickets for court appearances and for the return of the child, if so ordered.
A parent or legal guardian may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for return to the United States of a child abducted to, or wrongfully retained in Latvia. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand whether the Convention is an available civil remedy and can provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
A person may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for access to a child living in Latvia. The criteria for acceptance of a Hague access application vary from country to country. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand country-specific criteria and provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
The LCA will arrange for a pro bono attorney to represent applicant parents who are seeking a child’s return (or access to a child) under the Hague Abduction Convention. While it is the LCA that actually files the Hague petition with the appropriate Latvian court, the LCA-appointed attorney will represent the applicant thereafter. An applicant parent is not required to retain an attorney privately, and if he/she elects to do so, the applicant parent is responsible for all legal costs. A private attorney should contact the LCA prior to filing a Hague return application directly with the court.
The U.S. Embassy in Riga, Latvia, posts a list of attorneys, including those who specialize in family law.
This list is provided as a courtesy service only and does not constitute an endorsement of any individual attorney. The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the persons or firms included in this list. Professional credentials and areas of expertise are provided directly by the lawyers.
The LCA does not provide mediation services directly, although the LCA is available to provide referrals and information about the mediation process. Some of the child services offices in the larger municipalities have their own in-house mediators available to assist. Parents are responsible for mediation costs and mediation can occur at any stage of the Hague process. The Latvian legal system allows for mediation on a variety of issues including access, custody, child support, and property issues.
While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:
The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.
To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.
For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.
Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.
For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.
Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
Please see our section on Adoptions from the United States for more information on the process for adopting from the United States. We urge prospective adoptive parents to consult with the Latvia’s central authority, Ministry of Welfare, to determine whether the Convention applies to an adoption from the United States.
Latvia is a party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention or Convention). Intercountry adoption processing in Convention countries must be done in accordance with the requirements of the Hague Adoption Convention; the U.S. implementing legislation, the Intercountry Adoption Act of 2000 (IAA); and the IAA’s implementing regulations; as well as the implementing legislation and regulations of Latvia.
Prospective adoptive parents who have both Latvian and U.S. citizenship, who are residing in Latvia, and who plan for their adopted child to immediately acquire U.S. citizenship are strongly encouraged to follow the Hague Adoption Convention process requirements set forth below.
Prospective adoptive parents who adopt a Latvian child through the domestic Latvian adoption process are cautioned that the child will generally not be eligible for immigration to the United States immediately following the adoption. Children adopted through the Latvian domestic process may only be eligible for U.S. immigration benefits after their adoptive parents can demonstrate that the adoption took place before the child’s 16th birthday and that he/she has lived in their legal custody and joint residence, outside the United States, for at least two years. Please visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for more information on the immediate relative immigration process.
Note: If any of the following occurred prior to April 1, 2008 (the date on which the Hague Adoption Convention entered into force with respect to the United States), the Hague Adoption Convention may not apply to your adoption: 1) you filed a Form I-600A, Application for Advance Processing of an Orphan Petition, identifying Latvia as the country where you intended to adopt; 2) you filed a Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative, on behalf of a child from Latvia or; 3) the adoption was completed. Under these circumstances, your adopted child’s adoption could continue to be processed as a non-Convention intercountry adoption, provided the child’s country of origin agrees. For more information, read about Transition Cases. Please contact adoptionusca@state.gov with the details of the case if this situation applies to you.
U.S. IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS
To bring an adopted child to the United States from Latvia, you must meet certain suitability and eligibility requirements. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), determines who can adopt a child from another country and bring that child to live in the United States under U.S. immigration law.
Additionally, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee under U.S. immigration law in order to immigrate to the United States with an IH-3 or IH-4 immigrant visa.
In addition to being found suitable and eligible to adopt by USCIS, prospective adoptive parents seeking to adopt a child from Latvia must meet the following requirements of Latvia:
Because Latvia is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, children from Latvia must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for intercountry adoption. For example, the adoption may take place only if the competent authorities of Latvia have determined that placement of the child within Latvia has been given due consideration and that an intercountry adoption is in the child’s best interests.
In addition to qualifying as a Convention adoptee under U.S. immigration law, a child must meet the following requirements of Latvia:
Please note that in order for a child to meet the definition of Convention adoptee under U.S. immigration law, a Form I-800, Petition to Classify Convention Adoptee as an Immediate Relative, must be filed on the child’s behalf while the child is under the age of 16 (or under the age of 18 if the child is the birth sibling of another adopted child who has immigrated or will immigrate based on adoption by the same adoptive parent(s)). Please note the special rules and instructions on filing dates for children aged 15-16 or siblings aged 17-18).
Caution: Prospective adoptive parents should be aware that not all children in orphanages or children’s homes are eligible for adoption. In many countries, birth parents place their child(ren) temporarily in an orphanage or children’s home due to financial or other hardship, intending that the child return home when this becomes possible. In such cases, the birth parent(s) have rarely relinquished their parental rights or consented to the adoption of their child(ren).
Warning: Do not adopt or obtain legal custody of a child in Latvia before: 1) USCIS has approved your Form I-800A, Application for Determination of Suitability to Adopt a Child from a Convention Country, 2) USCIS has provisionally approved your Form I-800, Petition to Classify Convention Adoptee as an Immediate Relative, and 3) a U.S. consular officer has issued an “Article 5/17 Letter” in the case. Read on for more information.
Latvia’s Central Adoption Authority
Ministry of Welfare
Note: Special transition provisions may apply to adoptions initiated before April 1, 2008. Read about Transition Cases.
The Process
Because Latvia is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adoptions from Latvia must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention’s requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is provided below. You must complete these steps in the following order to meet all necessary legal requirements. Adoptions completed out of order may result in the child not being eligible for an immigrant visa to the United States.
Applying for Your U.S. Passport
U.S. citizens are required by law to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport. Once your child has acquired U.S. citizenship, s/he will need a U.S. passport for any international travel. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.
Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The Department of State’s Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print—all in one place.
Obtaining a Visa to Travel to Latvia
In addition to a U.S. passport, you may also need to obtain a visa to travel abroad. Where required, visas are affixed to a traveler’s passport and allow him or her to enter a foreign nation. To find information about obtaining a visa for Latvia, see the Department of State’s Country Specific Information.
Staying Safe on Your Trip
Before you travel, it is always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The Department of State provides Country Specific Information for every country in the world about various issues, including health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
Staying in Touch on Your Trip
When traveling during the adoption process, we encourage you to enroll with the Department of State. Enrollment makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there is a family emergency in the United States or a crisis in Latvia, enrollment assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
Enrollment is free and can be done online via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Post-Adoption/Post-Placement Reporting Requirements
If the adoptive parents and the child continue to reside in Latvia, the orphan court having jurisdiction over the child’s place of residence will monitor the adopted child’s well-being for the first two years after the adoption's finalization.
If the adoptive parents and the child reside outside Latvia, the Ministry requires post-adoption reports on the adopted child for two years after the adoption (one per year). The first post-adoption report shall be submitted to the Ministry one year after the date the adoption became effective. The second post-adoption report shall be submitted to the Ministry two years after the date the adoption became effective. The reports should be conducted by appropriate child welfare officials in the state where the child resides.
We urge you to comply with Latvia’s post-adoption/post-placement requirements in a timely manner. Your adoption service provider may be able to help you with this process. Your cooperation will contribute to that Latvia’s history of positive experiences with U.S. citizen adoptive parents.
Post-Adoption/Post-Placement Resources
Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. There are many public and private nonprofit post-adoption services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and adoptee organizations active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin.
You may wish to take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services maintains a website, the Child Welfare Information Gateway, which can be a useful resource to get you started on your support group search:
Note: Inclusion of non-U.S. government links does not imply endorsement of content.
Complaints
If you have concerns about your intercountry adoption process, we ask that you share this information with the Embassy in Riga, particularly if it involves possible fraud or misconduct specific to your child’s case. The Department of States takes all allegations of fraud or misconduct seriously. Our Adoption Comment Page provides several points of contact for adoptive families to comment on their adoption service provider, their experience applying for their child’s visa, or about the Form I-800 petition process.
The Hague Complaint Registry is an internet based registry for filing complaints about U.S. accredited or approved adoption service providers. If you think your provider's conduct may not have been in substantial compliance with accreditation standards, first submit your complaint in writing directly to your provider. If the complaint is not resolved through the provider's complaint process, you may file the complaint through the Hague Complaint Registry.
U.S. Embassy in Latvia
1 Samnera Velsa St.
Riga, LV-1510
Tel: 371-6710-7034; 371-6710-7000
Fax: 371-6710-7001
Email: adoptions-riga@state.gov
Internet: https://lv.usembassy.gov/embassy/riga/
Latvian Adoption Authority
Children and Family Policy Department
Ministry of Welfare
28 Skolas St., Riga, Latvia, LV-1331
Tel: 371-6702-1600
Fax: 371-6727-6445
Email: lm@lm.gov.lv
Internet: http://www.lm.gov.lv
Embassy of Latvia
2306 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20008
Tel: 202-328-2840
Fax: 202-328-2860
Email: embassy.usa@mfa.gov.lv
Internet: http://www.latvia-usa.org/
Office of Children’s Issues
U.S. Department of State
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, D.C. 20522-1709
Email: Adoption@state.gov
Internet: adoption.state.gov
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
For questions about immigration procedures:
USCIS National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
Tel: 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
Internet: uscis.gov
For questions about filing a Form I-800A application or I-800 petition:
USCIS National Benefits Center
Tel: 1-877-424-8374 (toll free); 1-816-251-2770 (local)
Email: NBC.Hague@uscis.dhs.gov
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-1 2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-2 2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| H-1B | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| H-2B | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| H-2R | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| H-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-7 10 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 15 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.
Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
Applicants may only obtain their personal Latvian civil documents, including police and court records (parents or legal guardians act on their children's behalf). If applicants are unable to personally appear they may authorize a third party to act on their behalf by issuing a notary-certified power of attorney. An Apostille issued by a Secretary of State is required for a U.S.-issued power of attorney to be accepted as a legal document in Latvia.
Documents should be requested directly from the issuing authority; however, applicants residing abroad may also contact the nearest Latvian diplomatic and consular mission for assistance to obtain documents from Latvia, i.e., civil records, police, court, and military records. Most government authorities have the legal authority to accept document requests and issue them electronically. For U.S. visa purposes, hard copies of documents must be submitted with original signatures and seals. An Apostille must be obtained from the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia for any documents issued by Latvian authorities that will be used in the United States for other than nonimmigrant and immigrant visa application purposes.
Latvian residents who require documents from other countries should check the applicable reciprocity information on availability of the documents from a particular country. They may also seek assistance on requesting documents from abroad from the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia (a service charge is requested).
Each type of document is issued by a respective Latvian government authority that has its set standards on how the documents are prepared. List of issuing authorities and other relevant information is provided below.
Available
Fees: Current fee is 1.42 euros (approx. $2) for requesting a duplicate certificate. The initial birth registration is a no-fee service. Note that this information is subject to change based on local legislation.
Document Name: DZIMŠANAS APLIECĪBA (title of the document normally is provided both in Russian and Latvian if issued during the Soviet era)
Issuing Authority: Civil records before December 31, 1914 are available from the Latvian State Historical Archives.
Civil records from January 1, 1915 to April 30, 1921 are available from the Archive of the Civil Register Department of the Ministry of Justice: 38a Aleksandra Caka St., Riga, LV-1011, Latvia; tel.: +371-67830677, +371-67830689; e-mail: dzimts.dep@tm.gov.lv. Civil records from May 1, 1921 to December 31, 2012:
Civil records from 2013 are available from the nearest Civil Register Office or the Archive of the Civil Register Department of the Ministry of Justice.
If abroad, one may contact the nearest Latvian diplomatic mission for assistance on obtaining civil records.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Style and format of birth certificates has changed over years. Currently, birth certificates (both initial and duplicates) are printed on A4 size 100g/m2 paper. The Latvian national Coat of Arms is printed at the top of the page in full color print. The ornamental frame along the edge of the certificate is printed in the auseklis [regular octagram] pattern in green. The background pattern is printed in a light color, and the large national Coat of Arms is lightly printed in the center.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Head of Civil Register Office.
Registration Criteria: Birth registration occurs on the bases of a referral from a medical facility where the child was born and information provided by parents. The name of the father of a child born out-of-wedlock is registered on the bases of an application signed by both parents of a child acknowledging paternity.
Procedure for Obtaining: Parents of a child must appear personally and present their passports, marriage certificate, if applicable, and referral from the medical facility. Third parties may represent child's parents if they have a notary certified power of attorney. Similarly, duplicates of birth certificates may be obtained personally by a subject of the record (parents apply on behalf of their minor children) or by their representative who is in possession of a valid power of attorney.
Certified Copies: A copy of the original document may be prepared by a sworn notary. However, it is recommended to obtain duplicate certificates instead.
Alternate Documents: Civil Register Offices issue also birth registration statements upon request. It is a for-fee service. A Birth Note (in Latvian - DZIMŠANAS ZIME) is a document that was issued in addition to a birth certificate until 2005. Birth notes verify the fact of birth, but exclude information about parents.
Exceptions: None
Comments: Starting 2013, when the Civil Register office receives an application for a duplicate birth certificate, they obtain current biographic data on the child and his/her parents from the Population Register of Latvia. The duplicate certificate will list the most current (not historical) name and surname of the child and his/her parents as available in the Population Register.
Along with their duplicate birth certificate or later, applicants may request from a Civil Register office a detail reference with information on historical data and all name changes for all subjects of the record. Note that name changes approved by the Latvian authorities are included in the Register automatically. The Population Register is also updated when the subjects of the records are applying to renew their Latvian passports. Otherwise, if the subject no longer is a Latvian passport holder, information about a name change approved abroad may be missing in the Population Register. Some Latvian passport holders fail to comply with the requirement to report their name change in timely manner or at all if they are in possession of a foreign official travel document or photo ID.
Available
Fees: Current fee is 1.42 euros (approx. $2) for requesting a duplicate certificate. The initial death registration is a no-fee service. Note that this information is subject to change based on local legislation.
Document Name: MIRŠANAS APLIECĪBA (title of the document normally is provided both in Russian and Latvian if issued during the Soviet era)
Issuing Authority: Civil records before December 31, 1914 are available from the Latvian State Historical Archives.
Civil records from January 1, 1915 to April 30, 1921 are available from the Archive of the Civil Register Department of the Ministry of Justice: 38a Aleksandra Caka St., Riga, LV-1011, Latvia; tel.: +371-67830677, +371-67830673; e-mail: dzimts.dep@tm.gov.lv. Civil records from May 1, 1921 to December 31, 2012:
Civil records from 2013 are available from the nearest Civil Register Office or the Archive of the Civil Register Department of the Ministry of Justice.
If abroad, one may contact the nearest Latvian diplomatic mission for assistance on obtaining civil records.
Special Seal(s)/Color/Format: Style and format of death certificates has changed over years. Currently, death certificates (both initial and duplicates) are printed on A4 size 100g/m2 paper. The Latvian national Coat of Arms is printed at the top of the page in full color print. The ornamental frame along the edge of a certificate is printed in the auseklis [regular octagram] pattern in black. The background pattern is printed in a light color, and the large national Coat of Arms is printed in the center, in a light color.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Head of Civil Register Office
Registration Criteria: Death registration occurs on the grounds of a referral from a physician verifying the fact of death and information received from the person applying for the death certificate.
Procedure for Obtaining: Deceased person's relatives may apply for and received a death certificate or it's duplicate. Third parties may represent such relatives if they have a notary certified power of attorney.
Duplicates of death certificates may also be issued to applicants who prove legal necessity to have them.
Certified Copies: A copy of the original document may be prepared by a sworn notary. However, it is recommended to obtain duplicate certificates instead.
Alternate Documents: Civil Register Offices issue also death registration statements upon request. It is a for-fee service.
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: Current fee is 1.42 euros (approx. $2) for requesting a duplicate certificate. The initial marriage registration is a no-fee service. Note that this information is subject to change based on local legislation.
Document Name: LAULĪBAS APLIECĪBA (title of the document normally is provided both in Russian and Latvian if issued during the Soviet era)
Issuing Authority: Civil records before December 31, 1914 are available from the Latvian State Historical Archives.
Civil records from January 1, 1915 to April 30, 1921 are available from the Archive of the Civil Register Department of the Ministry of Justice: 38a Aleksandra Caka St., Riga, LV-1011, Latvia; tel.: +371-67830677, +371-67830673; e-mail: dzimts.dep@tm.gov.lv. Civil records from May 1, 1921 to December 31, 2012:
Civil records from 2013 are available from the nearest Civil Register Office or the Archive of the Civil Register Department of the Ministry of Justice. If abroad, one may contact the nearest Latvian diplomatic mission for assistance on obtaining civil records.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Style and format of marriage certificates has changed over years. Currently, marriage certificates (both initial and duplicates) are printed on A4 size 100g/m2 paper. The Latvian national Coat of Arms is printed at the top of the page in full color print. The ornamental frame along the edge of a certificate is printed in the auseklis [regular octagram] pattern in red. The background pattern is printed in a light color, and the large national Coat of Arms is printed in the center, in a light color.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Head of a Civil Register Office or a church official.
Registration Criteria: Under Latvian law, marriage is permitted between two individuals who are at least 18 years old (or at least 16 years old if authorization from parents or orphan court granted). Same sex marriages are forbidden under Latvian law.
Procedure for Obtaining: Marriage may be concluded only when both parties are present. Marriage certificate is issued at the end of marriage registration ceremony.
Duplicates of marriage certificates may be obtained personally by the subjects of the record or by their representative in possession of a valid power of attorney. Duplicate certificates may be issued only if the marriage is still effective and has not been annulled or otherwise dissolved.
Certified Copies: A copy of the original document may be prepared by a sworn notary or applicants may obtain duplicate certificates from the issuing authorities.
Alternate Documents: Civil Register Offices issue also marriage registration statements upon request. It is a for-fee service.
Exceptions: None
Comments: Starting 2013, when the Civil Register office receives an application for a duplicate marriage certificate, they obtain current biographic data on both spouses from the Population Register of Latvia. If at the time of application for a duplicate marriage certificate one or both spouses have acquired new names, the duplicate marriage certificate will list them as their names after marriage.
Along with their duplicate marriage certificate or later, applicants may request from the Civil Register office a detail reference on the marriage record with information on historical data and name changes for both subjects of the record.
Available: Depending on the date of marriage dissolution one of the following documents may be presented as evidence of divorce:
Duplicate certificates are not available. See information below on alternate documents.
Fees: The document-issuing authorities listed below have different fees that depend on their fee schedules and volume of the required documents.
Document Name: There is no standard name for marriage dissolution documents in cases when sworn notaries acknowledge and administer marriage dissolution. Court decision (in Latvian - SPRIEDUMS LATVIJAS REPUBLIKAS VARDĀ) in cases where the marriage is dissolved by a court. Certificate on marriage dissolution (in Latvian -LAULĪBAS ŠKIRŠANAS APLIECĪBA) for Soviet-era divorce certificates and for certificates by local Civil Register Offices.
Issuing Authority: Sworn notaries in Latvia issue divorce certificates since 01-Feb-2011 on marriages dissolved by them. Local Civil Register Offices issued divorce certificates until September 1994 on divorces approved by courts where court decisions became effective before September 1, 1993. Filing for a divorce certificate was mandatory to finalize the divorce.
For marriages dissolved in court after September 1, 1993, the court decision is the final document proving the divorce.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Documents prepared by sworn notaries are printed on A4 size white paper. The document contains a seal of a notary. Each notary has their own seal. It is round and red. It has a complemented Coat of Arms of the Republic of Latvia (as defined by the Latvian Coat of Arms Law) in the center and includes also the sworn notary's full name, title, name of court in jurisdiction of which the notary operates, and their place of service.
Divorce certificates issued by Civil Register Offices until September 1994 were printed on A5 size ivory color paper with an ornamental frame along the edge of a certificate. It contained a blue-color round seal of the issuing Civil Register Office.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Sworn notary on certificates issued by them; Head of a Civil Register Office on certificates issued by these offices; or the judge that administers the divorce in a local court.
Registration Criteria: Notaries in Latvia may dissolve marriages since February 1, 2011, when no disputes regarding custody of children or property exist between the spouses.
Otherwise, only a court may approve a divorce. Before September 1, 1993, spouses had to take an additional step to finalize their divorce and apply for a divorce certificate with a Civil Register Office after a court had approved their divorce.
Procedure for Obtaining: Duplicate certificates are not available. See information below on alternate documents.
Certified Copies: A copy of the original document may be prepared by a sworn notary or applicants may obtain duplicate certificates or court decisions from the issuing authorities.
Alternate Documents: Transcripts (in Latvian - NORAKSTS) of divorce certificates issued by notaries may be obtained from that same office personally by subjects of the record or their representative in possession of a valid power of attorney. A fee applies. The amount of fee is based on the number of pages in the divorce certificate. On average, the fee is about 14.23 euros (approx. $20) per transcript. The Civil Register Offices maintain data in the marriage register. Courts and sworn notaries forward information about approved divorces to respective Civil Register Offices where marriages were originally concluded. The data are included in the marriage register, and later subjects of the records or their legal representatives may apply for marriage/divorce statements from the marriage register. The fee for this service is 4.27 euros (approx. $6).
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available: In intercountry adoption cases under the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention), adoption certificates are issued by the Latvian Ministry of Welfare. In non-Hague adoption cases , the ministry does not issue adoption certificates. There are only court decisions.
Fees: The Ministry of Welfare charges no fee for adoption certificate issuance. The fee for obtaining a certified court order on adoption approval is 5.00 euros (approx. $5) per document.
Document Name: The adoption certificate is called an Article 23 Letter. Court decisions are called SPRIEDUMS LATVIJAS REPUBLIKAS VARDĀ in Latvian.
Issuing Authority: For adoption certificates, the Children and Family Policy Department, Ministry of Welfare, 28 Skolas St., Riga, Latvia, LV-1331, tel. 371-6702 1600, e-mail: lm@lm.gov.lv. (in intercountry adoption cases subject to the Hague Adoption Convention); OR the court decision on adoption approval (in adoption cases that are completed domestically).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Documents prepared by the Ministry of Welfare and courts are printed on A4 size white paper. They contain the issuing authority’s round ink seal and the black-and-white full Coat of Arms of Latvia is printed at the top of the first page. In the upper right corner of the court decision the word NORAKSTS [transcript] is stamped or printed. All pages of court decisions are numbered and attached by string.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Adoption certificates by the Ministry of Welfare include the original signature of the Ministry’s State Secretary. Court decisions on adoption approval include the original signature of the judge who administered the case.
Registration Criteria: Adoption certificates and court decisions are available after the adoption enforcement date.
Procedure for Obtaining: Adoptive parents (or their legal representatives holding certified powers of attorney) may apply for adoption certificates or court decisions by filing applications directly with the issuing authorities or, if abroad, with the applicants’ nearest Latvian diplomatic and consular mission. Subjects of the records (adopted children) may apply for their adoption certificates and court decisions after the age of 18.
Certified Copies: Notaries have the right to provide certified copies of original documents.
Alternate Documents: The child's birth records are amended to reflect the new maternity and paternity information after a court has approved adoption of a child.
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
There are three types of identity cards issued since April 1, 2012:
Fees: 14.23 euros (approx. $20)
Document Name: PERSONAS APLIECĪBA for ID card and UZTURĒŠANĀS ATĻAUJA for residency permit
Issuing Authority: Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs of the Republic of Latvia (OCMA).
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The cards contain a non-touch microchip that provides individual biometric information. Detailed information about all types of Latvian passports and other identity documents and their security features is available on the Council of European Union Public Register of Authentic and Identity Documents Online (PRADO) website.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Every Latvian national is mandated to be in possession of a valid Latvian citizen or non-citizen passport and/or national ID card (eID) after reaching the age of 15. Requests must be filed by the applicants in person. The previous Latvian travel document or birth certificate must be presented at the time of making the application.
Minor children are issued Latvian eID cards upon request for international travel purposes. eID card applications for children under 15 are submitted by one of parents. If one parent is not a Latvian citizen or non-citizen or a citizen of another European Union country, but they need/want to apply for their child's eID card, they must be in possession of a valid power of attorney issued by the parent having such nationality. The presence of the child is not required at the time of submitting the eID card application. OCMA issues initial residency permit cards to people in refugee, asylum, or stateless resident status upon granting such status.
Certified Copies: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: From 4.27 Euros (approx. $11)
Document Name: CERTIFICATE (issued in English for U.S. visa or immigration benefits purposes).
Issuing Authority: Information Center of the Ministry of Interior at 72b Bruninieku St., Riga, LV-1009, Latvia, or Latvian diplomatic and consular missions abroad.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The Information Center of the Ministry of Interior issues the certificates for U.S. visa purposes in sealed envelopes. The actual certificates are printed on the Information Center letterhead - A4 size ivory color paper with the complemented Latvian Coat of Arms in full color and the Information Center logo at the top of the page. For immigrant visa processing, applicants should only send a copy of the sealed envelope to the National Visa Center and not break the seal to show contents inside. Applicants must bring the original Police Certificate in the sealed envelope to the U.S. Embassy/Consulate at the time of their interview.
Police certificates obtained through Latvian embassies abroad are issued on embassy-specific letterheads, rather than the letterhead used by the Information Center. They do not come in sealed envelopes.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Chief of Information Center or an official of the Latvian diplomatic or consular mission abroad.
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: The subject of the record or their legal representative must apply for the statement in person by filing an application with the Information Center of the Ministry of Interior. The request may be also submitted electronically using e-signature as defined by the Latvian law or though the Latvian e-services portal: latvija.lv (available to those having e-signature or using Latvian online banking).
If abroad, one may contact the nearest Latvian diplomatic or consular mission for assistance on obtaining police records.
Certified Copies: A copy of the original document may be prepared by a sworn notary.
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions None
Comments: At the time of submitting a request for a Latvian police certificate, one MUST indicate that it is required for U.S. visa purposes. We recommend using the application form available in this link for ensuring the correct type of police certificate is requested and received.
Under Latvian law, almost all records are routinely expunged after several years. Subsequently, ex-offenders are not normally obliged to indicate their convictions, for example, when applying for a job or when involved in criminal or civil proceedings. The expunged records remain in the Punishment Register and are available if the person specifically authorizes disclosure of the entire record. The police certificates issued for U.S. visa purposes contain the entire record (including convictions that are considered expunged). Note: The Punishment Register contains complete information on criminal offences committed in the territory of Latvia both before and after 1991 when Latvia declared independence.
Applicants who have served an imprisonment term in Latvia, including pre-trial detention or imprisonment, should follow the above guidance and acquire Police Certificates.
Available
Fees: Fees apply per number of pages in the requested duplicate transcripts.
Document Name: SPRIEDUMS LATVIJAS REPUBLIKAS VARDĀ.
Issuing Authority: Courts of the Republic of Latvia or the Latvian State Historical Archives
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Printed on A4 size white paper. The black and white full Coat of Arms of Latvia is printed at the top of the first page. Furthermore, in the upper right corner word NORAKSTS [transcript] is stamped or printed. All pages are numbered and stringed together. The court seal, total number
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Judge or the archives official
Registration Criteria: None
Procedure for Obtaining: Subjects of the record or their legal representatives must apply for court records in person.
Certified Copies: Available. A copy of the original transcript may be prepared by a sworn notary.
Alternate Documents: None
Exceptions: None
Comments: Court decisions in Latvia are gradually made available for accessing online at tiesas.lv/tiesu-nolemumi (in Latvian only). Personally identifying information is removed when information is accessed by public. Full transcript is/will be available only to the subjects of the record or their legal representatives.
Available
Fees: Fees apply and vary per type of document request and issuing agency
Document Name: Varies depending on the issuing agency
Issuing Authority: Records on Latvian citizens who retired from the National Armed Forces of the Republic of Latvia (NAF) after January 1, 2007 are available from the Central Archive of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Latvia (10/12 Krisjana Valdemara St., Riga, LV-1473, Latvia; tel. +371-67335123); Other records on military service with NAF are available from the State Archives of Latvia 1 Bezdeligu St., Riga LV-1048, Latvia; tel.: +371-67462317; email: lva@arhivi.gov.lv or its regional branches. Military service in the Soviet Army was recorded in military books (voyenniy bilet) which contain information on the length of service and circumstances of discharge. Often people have these books available for presenting. If unavailable, records about military service in the Soviet Army may be available from the Central Archives of the Ministry of Defense of Russian Federation (74 Kirova St., Podolsk, Moscow Oblast, Russia, 142100). Latvian permanent residents may contact the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia for assistance requesting documents from abroad.
Special Seal(s)/Color/Format: There is no special seal(s)/color/format
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title
Registration Criteria: Genuine military service
Procedure for Obtaining: Subject of the record or their legal representative must apply for their records as instructed by a respective agency listed above.
Certified Copies: A copy of the original transcript may be prepared by a sworn notary.
Alternate Documents: Military service in the Soviet Army was recorded in military books. Often people have these books available for presenting.
Exceptions: None
Comments: 12 months of military service was obligatory until December 31, 2006 for all men, Latvian citizens, between the age of 19 and 27. However, the law provided a number of exceptions, for example, for people with health problems, under criminal proceedings, students enrolled in universities, or having families with at least two small children.
Latvian non-citizens (a.k.a. Latvian alien's passport holders) were not subject to the obligatory military service. They are not eligible to serve in the National Armed Forces of the Republic of Latvia.
Types Available (Regular, Diplomatic, Official, etc.):
Fees: Defined by local legislation
Document Name: PASE for passport; CELOŠANAS DOKUMENTS for travel document
Issuing Government Authority: Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs of the Republic of Latvia (OCMA). Latvian diplomatic and consular missions accept applications for travel documents from Latvian nationals residing abroad.
Latvian diplomatic and service (official) passports are issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia. OCMA performs personalization and recordkeeping of these passports.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Detailed information about all types of Latvian passports and other identity documents and their security features is available on the Council of European Union Public Register of Authentic and Identity Documents Online (PRADO) website.
Latvia has issued biometric passports since November 20, 2007. Only biometric Latvian citizen passport holders may be able to travel to the United States visa free. Latvian citizen or non-citizen passports issued during the below listed time periods had a 50-years validity for people who were at least 60 years old at the time of submitting their passport applications; however, these passports are no longer valid for travel outside the Schengen Zone or U.S. visa purposes:
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title
Registration Criteria: Latvian citizenship:
In accordance with the recent changes in Latvian citizenship law, dual nationality with certain countries may be permitted for Latvian citizens.
Latvian alien (non-citizen) status:
In 1992, the government of Latvia granted special alien (non-citizen) status to a certain category of former USSR citizens. This status allows these citizens to remain in Latvia permanently. This category of permanent residents bears alien's (non-citizen) passports. Children of non-citizens acquire non-citizen status at birth, unless parents apply for citizenship for their child.. Non-citizens account for approximately 12 percent of the Latvian population. They exercise many of the same rights as do Latvian citizens. However, they cannot vote or travel visa-free to the United States.
Procedure for Obtaining: Every Latvian national is mandated to be in possession of a valid Latvian citizen or non-citizen passport and/or national ID card (eID) after reaching the age of 15. Applications must be made personally and in person. A previous Latvian travel document or birth certificate must be presented upon submitting an application.
Minor children are issued Latvian passports upon request for international travel purposes. Passport applications for children under 15 are submitted by one of parents. If one parent is not a Latvian citizen or non-citizen or a citizen of another European Union country, but they need/want to apply for their child's passport, they must be in possession of a valid power of attorney issued by the parent having such nationality. The presence of the child is not required at the time of submitting the passport application.
OCMA issues initial travel documents to people in refugee, asylum, or stateless resident status upon granting such status.
Alternate Documents:
Exceptions: None
Comments: Latvian passport holders may choose to list their minor children, their ethnic origin, and transliteration of their names in English in their passports.
Latvian non-citizens must be processed as stateless for U.S. visa purposes. Note: until September 2012, U.S. Embassy in Riga issued visas to Latvian non-citizens with the nationality code LATV [for Latvia]. Visas issued with LATV designation prior to September 2012 remain valid until they expire, as long as visa holders retain their Latvian non-citizen status.
Latvian non-citizens are considered Latvian nationals for U.S. Treaty Trader (E-1) or Treaty Investor (E-2) visa purposes. They may be principal E-1/E-2 visa applicants.
Other Documents Available: There is no other documents available
Not applicable.
Post Title: U.S. Embassy Riga, Latvia
Address: 1 Samnera Velsa Street, Riga, LV-1510, Latvia
Tel: (371) 6710-7000
Fax: (371) 6710-7001
E-mail: askconsular-riga@state.gov
Visa Services: All visa categories for all of Latvia.
Comments / Additional Information: None
Processing all types of immigrant and non-immigrant visas.
Washington, DC (202) 328-2881/2882 (202) 328-2860
New York, NY (646) 230-0590 (646) 230-0591
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.
Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.
You are about to visit:
