Indian students admitted to an accredited Latvian institution apply for a long stay visa at the Embassy of Latvia in India. The visa is valid for 90 days. After entering Latvia, students apply for a residence permit at the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs. [1]
Costs
- The European Commission Latvia profile estimates student living expenses at 450 to 700 euros per month, including accommodation, food, local transport and study materials. Tuition varies by institution and programme and is separate from that living-cost estimate. [2]
Visa steps
- Indian nationals enrolled at accredited Latvian institutions apply for the long stay visa at the Embassy of Latvia in India. The visa is valid for 90 days, and on entering Latvia the student applies for a residence permit at the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs. [1]
- Applicants from India must have their visa support document verified by the service provider Hello Verify India Private Limited before submitting the visa application. The embassy states that no appointment is given at VFS without the Hello Verify transaction number. [3]
- Appointments for submission and for a video or in-person interview with the embassy are booked through the VFS Global Latvia call centre in India, and the application is submitted at a VFS Global Latvia visa application centre. [3]
- The application form is completed online at epak.pmlp.gov.lv as a national visa (type D). VFS Global India applies service charges and a fee for the video conference, and documents count as submitted when the embassy receives them from VFS. [1]
Documents
- A proof of intended residence in Latvia must be submitted with the visa application. [1]
- A medical insurance policy is required. It can be obtained in the country of residence, in another country, or taken out by the inviting person. [1]
- Non-EU students need health insurance that covers emergency medical care, inpatient treatment, emergency transportation to a medical facility, and repatriation in case of serious illness. [4]
Frequently asked questions
Where do Indian students apply for a Latvian study visa?
At the Embassy of Latvia in India, through a VFS Global Latvia visa application centre, followed by a video or in-person interview with the embassy.
FAQ source [3]
What is Hello Verify and why is it needed for Latvia?
Applicants from India applying for a long stay visa for studies must have their visa support document verified by Hello Verify India Private Limited before booking the VFS appointment.
FAQ source [3]
What happens after arriving in Latvia on the study visa?
Students apply for a residence permit at the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs after entering on the 90-day long stay visa.
FAQ source [1]
Is health insurance required for students in Latvia?
Yes. Non-EU students need health insurance covering emergency care, inpatient treatment, emergency transport and repatriation in case of serious illness.
FAQ source [4]
Sources
Facts last checked: