Self-employment or business creation visa, with path to permanent residence in 1 years.
Business founders launching a new venture or expanding internationally
Those without a viable business plan or minimum startup capital
Launched 2017, reworked 2019. Valid up to 3 years. Up to 5 founders per startup. Family-friendly. Russian citizens barred since 2022, Belarusian citizens face obstacles. Focus on innovation over capital. 360 founders from 175 startups granted since 2017.
At a Glance
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18+ |
| Job Offer Required | No |
| Sponsorship Required | No |
| License / Recognition Required | No |
| Remote Income Allowed | Yes |
| Business Activity Required | Yes |
| Health Insurance Required | Yes |
| Proof of Funds Required | Yes |
| Can Apply From Abroad | Yes |
Financial Requirements
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum Income | €500/monthly |
| Minimum Savings | €6,000 |
| Application Fee | €150 |
| Est. Total Relocation Cost | €15,000 |
Family & Rights
| Right | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Allowed | Yes |
| Spouse Can Work | No |
| Children Allowed | Yes |
| Work Rights | limited |
| Remote Work Rights | full |
| Renewable | Yes |
| Time to Permanent Residency | 1 years |
| Time to Citizenship | 1 years |
Related Pathways
Cost of Living
Find your best visa pathway
Take our free 2-minute quiz and get matched with programmes that fit your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Startup Visa?
Self-employment or business creation visa, with path to permanent residence in 1 years.
Who is the Startup Visa best for?
This pathway is best suited for: Business founders launching a new venture or expanding internationally.
Who should not apply for the Startup Visa?
This pathway is not ideal for: Those without a viable business plan or minimum startup capital.
What are the financial requirements for the Startup Visa?
Applicants need minimum income of €500/monthly, minimum savings of €6,000. Additional costs may include the application fee and relocation expenses.
How long does it take to process the Startup Visa?
Processing typically takes 20 to 30 days. Times may vary based on nationality, completeness of documentation, and current processing volumes.
Can I bring my family on the Startup Visa?
Yes, this pathway allows family members including dependents.
Can the Startup Visa lead to permanent residency or citizenship?
Yes. Holders of this visa can work toward permanent residency in approximately 1 years and citizenship in approximately 1 years, subject to meeting residence and other conditions.
What are the known issues with the Startup Visa?
Known issues and warnings: Launched 2017, reworked 2019. Valid up to 3 years. Up to 5 founders per startup. Family-friendly. Russian citizens barred since 2022, Belarusian citizens face obstacles. Focus on innovation over capital. 360 founders from 175 startups granted since 2017.. We recommend checking the official source for the latest updates.
Can I work remotely on the Startup Visa?
Yes, this pathway allows remote income from outside Latvia.
Are there alternative pathways to Latvia?
Yes. Latvia offers 19 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our Latvia country page.
Get Your Full Report
Personalised visa pathways, cost breakdowns, and a step-by-step relocation plan.
Get Your Free VerdictOfficial source: https://startuplatvia.eu/startup-visa/