Latvia is a small country located on Baltic Sea which is being ruled over by Russians, Germans, Swedish and Polish people for centuries until it finally declared to be an independent state in 1991. In 2004, Latvia became part of European Union and it is regarded as one of highest income economies of Euro Zone.  With temperate climate, historical sites, safe environment, scenic landscape and rich and vibrant culture, Latvia is an attractive cosmopolitan country to pursue your higher education. This multi-ethnic country has a well established education sector which is build on broad-based curriculum. Latvia’s location joins east to west and north to south which has been reason of its occupation by Soviet Union and Sweden in the past. The modern day Latvia is merger of many cultures and unique environment that is hard to find anywhere in the world. If you are considering to study abroad in Latvia for your higher education, this article will unfold few most important factors making it a wise choice:

Latvia’s World Recognized Higher Education Institutions:

The higher education institutions of Latvia have made significant development towards improvement by initiating mergers and collaborations with international higher education institutes. The degrees offered by state and private universities of Latvia are recognized in all European states. Latvia has made remarkable advancement in Science and Technology, Latvia uses world’s fourth fastest internet speed. Despite Latvia’s land being under occupation of foreigners for centuries, the country has valued education and invested in building schools and universities. About 44% of Latvia’s population holds higher education degrees. Latvia has expertise in education fields of IT, Social Sciences, Business Management, Medicine, Aviation, Arts, Education Science, Language Studies and Engineering.

Tuition Fee:

The tuition fee is around 1,000 Euros to 24,000 Euros per year at Post Graduation level in Latvian Universities.

Living Cost in Latvia:

Latvia is scarcely populated country with around 2 million people; the students can expect to spend around 400 USD per month to manage their living cost there. It is an inexpensive country in terms of living cost.

English Taught Courses:

Although the national language of Latvia is Latvian but Russian and English are widely spoken. About, 5,000 international students travel each year to Latvia for studying in its universities, there are plenty of English taught courses in all universities whether public or private.

Working Permission While You Study in Latvia

Part time working permission is predominantly basic factor affecting international students to study abroad in Latvia. Latvia allows international students to work 20 hours a week in the country without any work permit during semesters and 40 hours a week during semester holidays. Internship programmes are offered to students in summer holidays to deliver professional experience as Latvia’s IT and engineering industries are booming, the related students get a significant and beneficial professional experience and exposure of job market in their academic years.

Post Graduation Work Opportunities in Latvia

Latvia allows students to work in the country after getting graduated successfully from Latvian university but in case of attaining an employment contract. The employer will apply for work permit on worker’s behalf by taking permission from Government and showing required company registration documents. Most of the Latvian Universities have specific units in their administration that specifically help international students to find employment in Latvia after graduation. The students can take information about availability of university offered internship programme and post graduation employment assistance before taking admission in Latvian universities.

Life in Latvia as a Foreign Student

When living in multicultural and rich historical country like Latvia the potential of personal growth and learning is immense. The ambience and lifestyle of Latvia is vibrant and colorful, because of being ruled over by different civilizations, the Latvian cuisines have fusion of Russian and Swedish dishes. About 50% of Latvia’s area is surrounded by forests and mountains, it is a beautiful country located on Baltic Sea, the climate is idyllic and landscape is exceptionally beautiful. The main cities have plenty of coffee shops, cafes, restaurants and hotels for eating out on Saturday night, for adventures you can go water- skiing, wind-surfing and mountain climbing. There is so much to learn from Latvian people who have endured centuries of struggle to gain an independence state for themselves. The century’s old Latvian heritage and literature will be worth exploring during your studies years that include national events, festivals, opera halls, art galleries and museums.

universities of Latvia....

Latvia is a small country located on Baltic Sea which is being ruled over by Russians, Germans, Swedish and Polish people for centuries until it finally declared to be an independent state in 1991. In 2004, Latvia became part of European Union and it is regarded as one of highest income economies of Euro Zone.  With temperate climate, historical sites, safe environment, scenic landscape and rich and vibrant culture, Latvia is an attractive cosmopolitan country to pursue your higher education. This multi-ethnic country has a well established education sector which is build on broad-based curriculum. Latvia’s location joins east to west and north to south which has been reason of its occupation by Soviet Union and Sweden in the past. The modern day Latvia is merger of many cultures and unique environment that is hard to find anywhere in the world. If you are considering to study abroad in Latvia for your higher education, this article will unfold few most important factors making it a wise choice:

Latvia’s World Recognized Higher Education Institutions 2020:

The higher education institutions of Latvia have made significant development towards improvement by initiating mergers and collaborations with international higher education institutes. The degrees offered by state and private universities of Latvia are recognized in all European states. Latvia has made remarkable advancement in Science and Technology, Latvia uses world’s fourth fastest internet speed. Despite Latvia’s land being under occupation of foreigners for centuries, the country has valued education and invested in building schools and universities. About 44% of Latvia’s population holds higher education degrees. Latvia has expertise in education fields of IT, Social Sciences, Business Management, Medicine, Aviation, Arts, Education Science, Language Studies and Engineering.

Tuition Fee:

The tuition fee is around 1,000 Euros to 24,000 Euros per year at Post Graduation level in Latvian Universities.

Living Cost in Latvia:

Latvia is scarcely populated country with around 2 million people; the students can expect to spend around 400 USD per month to manage their living cost there. It is an inexpensive country in terms of living cost.

English Taught Courses:

Although the national language of Latvia is Latvian but Russian and English are widely spoken. About, 5,000 international students travel each year to Latvia for studying in its universities, there are plenty of English taught courses in all universities whether public or private.

Working Permission While You Study in Latvia

Part time working permission is predominantly basic factor affecting international students to study abroad in Latvia. Latvia allows international students to work 20 hours a week in the country without any work permit during semesters and 40 hours a week during semester holidays. Internship programmes are offered to students in summer holidays to deliver professional experience as Latvia’s IT and engineering industries are booming, the related students get a significant and beneficial professional experience and exposure of job market in their academic years.

Post Graduation Work Opportunities in Latvia

Latvia allows students to work in the country after getting graduated successfully from Latvian university but in case of attaining an employment contract. The employer will apply for work permit on worker’s behalf by taking permission from Government and showing required company registration documents. Most of the Latvian Universities have specific units in their administration that specifically help international students to find employment in Latvia after graduation. The students can take information about availability of university offered internship programme and post graduation employment assistance before taking admission in Latvian universities.

Life in Latvia as a Foreign Student

When living in multicultural and rich historical country like Latvia the potential of personal growth and learning is immense. The ambience and lifestyle of Latvia is vibrant and colorful, because of being ruled over by different civilizations, the Latvian cuisines have fusion of Russian and Swedish dishes. About 50% of Latvia’s area is surrounded by forests and mountains, it is a beautiful country located on Baltic Sea, the climate is idyllic and landscape is exceptionally beautiful. The main cities have plenty of coffee shops, cafes, restaurants and hotels for eating out on Saturday night, for adventures you can go water- skiing, wind-surfing and mountain climbing. There is so much to learn from Latvian people who have endured centuries of struggle to gain an independence state for themselves. The century’s old Latvian heritage and literature will be worth exploring during your studies years that include national events, festivals, opera halls, art galleries and museums.

Universities of Latvia.....

Latvia is although a small country with about 2 million populations, but its higher education sector has greatly evolved and progressed into one of the finest in Europe. Latvian institutions offer internationally recognized degrees in a quite affordable tuition fee structure with focus on broad based curriculum and professional coaching. Catering the demands of international students there are hundreds of English taught courses being offered by Latvian institutions. Though, Latvia has been subject to tumultuous occupation for several decades, the country is now independent and member of European Union, it has a vibrant and diverse culture, clean and peaceful academic environment and high standards of living with economic stability. For the students currently in process of assessing the admission requirements of universities in Latvia, we have sketched step by step process of admission at Latvian Universities in this article:

1. Choosing a University

2. Choosing a Study Programme

3. Academic Requirements

4. Language Requirements

5. Preparation of Required Documents

6. Admission Deadlines

7. Acceptance Letter

Latvia has a few of the oldest universities of Europe. The University of Latvia (ranked at 47^th position by QS world university rankings in 2016) is about a century old, University of Daugavpils was established in 1921 and Riga Technical University was established in 1862. Latvia’s universities follow old academic traditions merged with modern day techniques and curriculum. The higher education institutions of Latvia are established and have forged international links with many top rated institutions. Especially, the engineering and IT related institutes of Latvia have high reputation and prestige for their quality education. The courses of Arts, Literature, Business Management and Medicine are Latvia’s forte. To select an apt university for your higher education in Latvia ascertain if it offers the study programme you want to study, compare the tuition fee of one institution with others before finalizing one, ascertain if the location of the university is at Latvian city where you wish to reside, check admission requirements and availability of on campus residence.

The study programme you chose in tertiary education leads you to your profession. Therefore, study programme must be selected after complete searching and thorough contemplation. First of all the study programme you choose must polish your existing set of skills and develop them further. The subjects you choose must be of your interest and in the language of your understanding, the education stream you choose must lead you to a professional career of your choice and preference. Higher education is mostly focus on developing skills and cognitive abilities of students which are only possible if you have passion for the subjects included in your curriculum. Therefore, commit to those set of subjects and study programme that not only have career scope but also derive your interest. After considering these factors and doing searching regarding career scope it is better to short list three study programmes, check if the university you have selected offers it in the language of your understanding, check subject wise merit requirements of your chosen study programme, entrance test compulsion, language requirements and overall admission eligibility.

The academic requirements are different for each study programme and academic level. The universities in Latvia set their own set of academic requirements and merit each year, therefore the specific requirements might differ university to university. Latvian universities grant admission to international students if their higher education degrees match Latvian standards or if the degrees are attained from institutions of your country that are recognized by Latvia. In general Latvian Universities have following academic requirements for admissions of international students:

For Admissions in Under Graduate Programmes:

Higher Secondary School Diploma (12^th Pass) or 3 years duration polytechnic diploma with minimum 60% grades requirements overall. Entrance Exam: Latvian Universities take entrance examinations from international students to assess their academic capabilities, the examination will be set by university according to your chosen study programme (it can be based on motivation letter) and a Skype interview is also taken before granting admission to students.

For Admissions in Post Graduate (Masters) Programmes:

Bachelors Honors Degree (4 Years Duration) with minimum 60% grades from a recognized institution of your country, Bachelors of Art or Bachelors of General Science (2 Years Degree) is not acceptable for admission in Masters level. Entrance Exam: Universities in Latvia take entrance examination from international students before granting admission; the examination will be designed according to your chosen study programme. Skype interview and entrance examination results must be satisfactory, one of the faculty member of university related to your study programme will conduct he interview. After the results your admission will be finalized.

For Admission in Post Graduate (PhD) Programmes:

Bachelors Honors Degree (4 Year Duration), Masters Degree (2 Year Duration) attained from a recognized institute of your country with minimum grades of at least 60%. Research proposal and Skype Interview will be required.

As you submit you admission application, all the academic certificates, degrees and diplomas will be assessed by Academic Information Centre (AIC) for approval, the AIC issues statement of comparability to the university which then approves or disapproves your admission application.

The international students applying for admission in Latvia need to prove their proficiency in English language through IELTS or TOEFL tests. The English Language Proficiency Tests are compulsory for all those students who belong to non English speaking countries. For admissions in under graduate or post graduate courses, the minimum grades in IELTS or TOEFL Tests required are:

IELTS: 6.5 bands overall

TOEFL Paper Based: Minimum 500 Scores

TOEFL internet Based IBT: 90 Score Minimum

The international students can submit documents directly at university they have chosen for admission. The required documents are different for each study programme that can be attained from the university’s website. The required documents must be prepared before admission intake deadline and with complete accuracy.

• Completed and Signed Admission Application Form

• Transcript of Academic Certificates, Diplomas, Degrees with additional documents demonstrating grading system of your institution

• Motivation Letter (At least 2 to 3 Pages Written In English)

• Language Proficient Test Certificate (IELTS, TOEFL)

• Updated CV (for Post Graduate Research Study Programme)

• Photocopy of Passport

• Detailed Research Proposal (For Post Graduate Research Courses)

• Recommendation Letters (From two of Applicant’s Professors) For Post Graduate Courses

• Passport Size Photographs

• Application fee Receipt (not refundable) It will be around US$167.34/£132.33

• All the documents should be translated in English language and certified copies

After receiving the required documents your chosen university will submit the documents to Academic Information Centre (AIC) for approval. Entrance examination and Skype interview will be taken in this duration. If approved the university will send you an acceptance letter, study contract, invoice for tuition fee, invoice for security deposit (500-700 Euro will be received from student by university as security). After paying tuition fee, the students can apply for student visa. In case if the student visa gets rejected, the universities refund the amount taken. You shall carry all of your original documents for applying student visa of Latvia. Overall admission process will take one to two months.

The admission intakes in Latvian university can differ from one another. The students can confirm the exact month and date from their chosen university but in general the admissions intake of Latvian Universities is as follows:

Autumn Semester: The admission applications must be submitted till May to June.

Spring Semester: The admission applications must be submitted till January.

International students from all around the world desire to study abroad in European countries, Latvia is one particular European country that is least explored and talked about though it is equally fascinating and immensely benefitting for study abroad aspirants. It is located near Baltic Sea, has wonderful climate, multi-ethnic culturally, picturesque landscape, globally recognized higher education institutions, economic stability and high standards of living and low criminal rate. Students are allowed to part time work for 20 hours a week during semesters and full time during semester holiday without a work permit. The admission requirements of Latvian Universities are although meritorious but not highly competitive as compared to other European countries hence simple and accessible for majority of international students. The student visa process of Latvia is explained in this article step by step:

Admission Acceptance:

The student visa process will be started after getting acceptance letter from your chosen Latvian University. If you meet the academic and language requirements of Latvian University, the university will send you an invoice for tuition fee, security deposit fee and study contract. The students will pay the fee and get final admission letter/acceptance letter which they will bring along to Latvian Embassy located at their home country for student visa application. The student visa process might take almost 2 months or more therefore the students are advised to start process of arranging documents right after submitting their admission documents so that their visa process can be completed till commencement of study programme in Latvian University.

Visiting Latvian Embassy or Consulate in Pakistan:

In most of the cases, Latvian Universities assist student in submitting their visa application or students can submit visa application and required documents at Latvian Embassy on their own either way the visa application will be submitted at the Latvian Embassy located in your country. You will visit the Embassy and get visa application and list of required documents to be submitted along with it, you will have to pay visa application fee when submitting the application. The documents required for visa are country specific but in general following documents are required for Latvian student visa:

Documents Required of Latvian Student Visa Resident Permit for Pakistani Students 2020:

If your study programme completes within 90 days duration, you can stay in Latvia on visa but for the study programme that lasts longer than 90 days duration, you will apply for Latvian Resident Permit. There are some countries whose nationals need to attain both visa and resident permit to study abroad in Latvia, you can take complete information from your chosen Latvian university and Latvian Embassy located at your country.

• Photocopies of applicant’s academic transcripts that must be attested by granting authority (if the documents are other than English language, then it must be translated in English by certified translator)

• Signed study contract and letter of acceptance from Latvian University(Must be originals)

• Proof of paid tuition fee and security deposit fee (Documented Proof Issued by Receiving Latvian University the amount can be around 500 or 720 USD)

• Recently Taken Passport Size Photographs

• Valid Passport (it must be valid till the duration of study programme)

• Filled and Signed Visa Application Form of Latvian Student Resident Permit

• A letter issued by applicant’s bank stating that he/she has sufficient amount in their account to afford living and study expenses in Latvia. The amount must be around 5160 Euros per year or 430 Euro per month in applicant’s bank statement. The bank statement must be issued on applicant’s name with same spellings as written in passport.

• Bank Debt Card or Credit Card that can be used in Latvia while applicant’s stay

• Proof of accommodation (rental contract with address of residence if the applicant has rented a private accommodation and if rented a university offered accommodation, proof from university will be required). The bank statement must not be issued more than 15 days earlier when submitting at Embassy.

• Document indicating that the applicant has paid state duty payment

• Health Insurance Coverage (the student can purchase health insurance upon arrival in Latvia or purchase while in their home country. There are private insurance companies and even universities provide assistance to students in arranging health insurance coverage. The health insurance will be purchased for your entire duration of stay in Latvia).The minimum amount of health insurance coverage is 30 000 LVL.

• X-Ray examination results

• Medical Examination Certificate (only those medical certificates will be accepted that are attained from Latvian Embassy’s Approved Institutions)

• Clearance Letter from Local Police Station (stating the applicant has not committed any criminal offence proving his/her good conduct of character, the letter must not be issued 3 months earlier than visa application submission date). The letter must be verified and stamped by Ministry Of External Affairs of your country.

• Visa application fee which will be around 120 USD (country specific it can be different for every country, it is not refundable)

• After submission of all above documents, the Embassy might or might not invite student for face to face interview. In most of the cases interview is organized.

• English Language Proficiency Test Certificate (IELTS, TOEFL) (Get Upcoming Test Dates of IELTS and TOEFL Here). 

Top Study Abroad Consultants in Pakistan 2020:

The student visa process is tedious and time taking journey which needs to be started on time. The success of your visa application almost entirely depends on authentic documents and on time submission. Following the deadlines of admissions and arranging the documents at the same time can be extremely challenging as the universities might take your entrance examination and also Skype interview. By taking assistance of expert study abroad consultants you can take the load off your shoulders and go through visa process with ease. In fact, the registered study abroad consultants deal with visas and resident permits documentations on regular basis their services can increase your chances of visa attainability. Moreover, you can save your money and time by taking services of the professionals in study abroad field and save yourself from failure and delay. The registered study abroad consultants working in various cities of Pakistan are enlisted in section of our website.

Latvia is referred as a hidden treasure and best kept secret of Europe. Though not as famous as other European countries like the UK and Sweden, Latvia is nonetheless charming, it has vibrant and radiant cities, serene and alluring sceneries, globally recognized and acclaimed higher education institutions, moderate climate and long standing history to be travel through while you study. The chief and most appealing factor to declare Latvia as one of the best choices among European countries to complete your study abroad degree is definitely cheap cost of living and tuition fees. In fact, it can be regarded as the most inexpensive country to live in Europe as an approximate amount of 450 to 600 Euros is enough to bear monthly expenditures of one person in Latvia. Latvian Universities hold a prominent position in world university rankings because of their cutting edge academic and research facilities. We have assembled this section to give an elaborated estimate of living and study expenses in Latvia for your study abroad planning. (Read Admission Requirements of Latvian Universities Here)

The tuition fees of Latvian universities are very reasonably structured making it affordable for international students. The tuition fees of private universities are higher than public universities and for each academic level and study programme the cost varies. The average tuition fees in various Latvian Universities for under graduate and post graduate levels are as:

Public Universities of Latvia 2020 for Pakistani Students

Under Graduate Full Time Study Programmes:

• Computer Science: 2200 Euros per year

• Business Administration: 2750 Euros per year

• Dentistry: 13000 Euros per year

• English Philology: 2750 Euros per year

• International Economics and Commercial Diplomacy: 3080 Euros per year

• Modern Language and Business Studies: 3000 Euros per year

• Medicine: 58500 Euros for entire degree programme

• English Language Teacher: 2800 Euros per year

Post Graduate (Masters) Study Programme:

• International Business with specialization in Export Management: 2365 Euros per year

• Educational Sciences: 3700 Euros per year

• Orientalistics: 3000 Eros per year

• Engineering and IT Courses: 2200 to 4000 Euros per year

• Medicine: 7,000 to 15,000 Euros per year

• Business Administration and Management: 6,000 Euros per year

Post Graduate (PhD) Study Programme:

• Mathematics, Biology, Economic, Literary Sciences: 3,400 to 4,000 Euros per year
• Management Sciences: 2,276 to 3,000 Euros per year

Private Universities of Latvia 2020

• Under Graduate Programme: 3,600 to 6,000 Euros per year

• Post Graduate (Masters) Programme: 2,500 to 3,500 Euros per year

• Post graduate (PhD) Programme: 2,000 to 4,000 Euros per year

As per the Latvian resident permit requirement, the foreign students have to show through his/her bank statement that they can spend an amount of 450 Euros per month on their living expenses during their stay in Latvia. By estimating the monthly amount requirement indicated by Latvian Immigration Department for students, an amount of 450 Euros is enough for one person to afford day to day expenses and accommodation in Latvia. This amount is considerably low than other European countries and adding that a student is allowed to work 20 hours a week part time in Latvia, the student can even save some amount for their tuition fee payment.  The living expenses are entirely dependent on a person’s spending habits and general life style, for students living in abroad the financial back up is usually limited. In fact, studying in abroad is a great chance for a student to manage their expenses and take responsibility of their lifestyle and start earning by doing part time jobs which altogether shape students in becoming independent, organized and learned individuals.

Accommodation:

The accommodation offered by universities would be the most cheap cost option for foreign students. Private rentals are usually out of range for students unless they earn a good amount through part time job or have sufficient financial resources. The accommodation cost will be different in various locations of Latvia depending on their proximity to central city and public transport. The average accommodation cost in Latvia is as:

• A Single Room or Shared Room in University Dormitory: 70 to 120 Euros per month

• Studio Type Apartment or One Bed Room Flat: 250 to 300 Euros per month

• Shared Flats: 120 to 250 Euros per month for per person

• 3 Bedrooms Apartment in Central City: 570 Euros per month

• 3 Bedrooms Apartment Outside City: 370 to 400 Euros per month

Food:

• Basic menu meal for one person in an inexpensive restaurant: 7.00 Euros

• Basic menu meal for two persons in mediocre restaurant: 37.00 Euros

• Combo meal for one person in McDonalds and Mc Meal or equivalent Fast Food Chain: 5.00 Euros

• Half Liter Water Bottle:  0.70 Euros

• 1 Liter Fresh Milk Bottle: 0.89 Euros

• A Loaf of Fresh White Bread: 0.81 Euros

• 1 Kg White Rice: 1.26 Euros

• Dozen Eggs: 1.61 Euros

• 1 Kg Local Cheese: 6.17 Euros

• 1 Kg Chicken Breast Meat: 5.00 Euros

• 1 Kg Beef Meat: 6.91 Euros

• 1 Kg Apples: 1.05 Euros

• 1 Kg Bananas: 1.31 Euros

• 1 Kg Oranges: 1.45 Euros

• 1 Kg Tomatoes: 1.67 Euros

• 1 Kg Potatoes: 0.46 Euros

• 1 Kg Onions: 0.45 Euros

Transportation:

• One way ticket of local transport: 1.15 Euros

• Monthly pass of local transport: 50.5 Euros

• 1 Km travel tariff in Taxi: 0.66 Euros

Other Expenditures:

• Monthly utility bills of electricity, gas, water, heating: 160 Euros

• Monthly internet connection of 60 Mbps speed cost: 15.52 Euros

• Monthly fitness club membership cost for one person: 34.11 Euros

• Cinema ticket one seat: 7.00 Euros

• Prepaid mobile card tariff 1 min call: 0.08 Euros

Health Insurance Coverage:

The foreign students enrolled in a full time study programme in Latvian Universities that last longer than 6 months are required to purchase health insurance coverage. Health insurance coverage will be purchased for the entire duration if your stay in Latvia. The students can purchase health insurance after arriving at Latvia from their university or from private insurance company. The insurance coverage can be around 30 000 LVL.

Latvia, the pearl of Baltic Sea is a Schengen State and European Union Member. Due to its strategically important geographical position, Latvia attracts investors from around the globe. Latvia is economically established country with high incomes and GDP rate. Post graduation work opportunities hold a pivotal importance for international students studying in abroad. Therefore, majority of students studying in Latvia want to have employment there, in fact Latvia has relaxed its immigration policies since 2010, now expats intending to stay in Latvia have to meet minimal financial requirements.

After completion of degree from Latvian University, the foreign national students have to acquire an employment contract from Latvian based company with no compulsion of job type and minimum salary. Most of the Latvian universities engage their students in internship programmes related to their courses during summer holidays organized at local companies and firms with purpose of delivering required professional experience to students. Finding a job in Latvia post graduation from Latvian University becomes accessible especially after gaining experience through internships.(Read Admission Requirements of Latvian Universities Here). The process of attaining work permit, permanent residence and citizenship of Latvia is explained in this article:

The student visa of Latvia expires as your study programme completes and you have to exit Latvia after completion of your degree successfully. If they have found an employment contract the below mentioned steps are to be followed to attain work permit of Latvia.

Steps to Attain Short Term Work Permit of Latvia for Non-EU/Third Country Nationals:

• The employer will register a required job position/vacancy in his company at Employment Agency

• Upon selection of employee, the employer will submit an application at Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs for inviting employee (the third country national for said vacancy) in Latvia. Other documents to be submitted along with application are employment contract and academic transcripts and qualification details of selected employee.

• If the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs approves the application. An invitation letter on the name of employee will be issued. The employee will visit Latvian Embassy or Consulate at their country and submit required documents for visa. The right to work is granted in visa.

• After arrival in Latvia, the employee will register their name as a tax payer at State Revenue Service.

Steps to Attain Long Term Work Permit of Latvia for Non-EU/Third Country Nationals:

• The employer will register the required job position/vacancy details in his company at Employment Agency

• After selecting employee from third country, the employer will submit a application for invitation at Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs along with employment contract, job position details, qualification details and academic transcripts of selected employee.

• If the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs approve the application after verification, an invitation letter will be issued on the name of employee.

• The employee will visit Latvian Embassy or Consulate located in their country after receiving invitation letter and submits documents for Latvian resident permit and employment permit. The resident permit will be issued with right to work by Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs.

• After arriving in Latvia the employee has to register their name as tax payer at State Revenue Service.

Required Documents for Latvian Work Permit 2020 for Pakistani Students:

• Valid Passport

• Two recently taken passport size photographs

• Completed and signed employment permit application form

• Medical examination certificate (stating the applicant is in good health and is not suffering from any disease that is contagious to general public)

• Visa application fee paid receipt

• If the applicant is taking spouse and kids along they will provide marriage certificate and relevant birth certificates of children

• Employment Contract

• Invitation Letter from Employer

• Letter of intent from employer

Terms and Conditions of Latvian Work Permit:

The employer hiring a third country national as an employee both on short term or long term basis has responsibility to provide health care and accommodation to them. If the employment contract remains intact, the work permit can be renewed after one year. The long term work permit holders also receive temporary resident permit of Latvia. If the employee changes job they will show no objection letter from previous employer and employment contract from new employer. The third country nationals can take more than one employment at a time but the immigration department has to be informed by the other employer as well. During this duration by proving enough financial means to afford expenditures of spouse and minor children, the third country national living on work permit can invite their family to live with them in Latvia, the family will be granted resident permit as well which will have same duration validity as employee’s resident permit. The employment contract can be extended for five years duration. After residing in Latvia for 5 years continuously on valid resident permit the third country national can apply for permanent residency of Latvia. Since Latvia is in Schengen agreement, the resident permit and work permit holders can visit other Schengen states without visa and can stay there for 90 days period.

A third country national who had resided in Latvia for past 5 years on legal basis can apply for permanent residency of Latvia. The permanent residency card is valid for 5 years duration. The candidate will submit following documents at Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs in Latvia for permanent residency card:

• Valid passport (with details of previous visa stamps and resident permit stamps indicating 5 years long legal stay in Latvia).

• Residence address in Latvia

• Candidate’s personal details including marriage, children, parents, qualification, knowledge of languages

• Tax payment documents

• Proof of finances (previous employment details, received salary details, present employment contract details)

• Confirmation from legal authorities of Latvia that the candidate has clean criminal record and during his stay he has been following rules of regulations of Latvia as responsible citizen.

• Health insurance policy (if supported by employer, the details of health insurance coverage paid by employer)

• Permanent Residency application form completed and signed

• The candidate must prove his proficiency in Latvian language, knowledge about Latvian history and culture. To prove proficiency in Latvian language a test might be taken by immigration department.

Rights of Permanent Resident:

• According to new revised laws, the permanent resident card holders of Latvia are not required to spend a certain amount of time in Latvia at any case to keep their PR residency. (It was earlier a requirement to stay in Latvia for at least 6 months every year to keep PR visa intact).

• Permanent residence has 5 years validity but it shall be registered every year.

• The Permanent Resident card holders can freely travel to other Schengen states and stay there.

• The PR Card holders have no restriction of holding one employment contract and informing about current residency to immigration department; they can live anywhere in Latvia and do any kind of employment.

• The spouse and minor (under 18 years aged) children of permanent resident holder are granted PR residency as well.

After living in Latvia for 5 years on permanent residency card, the holders of PR cards and their family can apply for citizenship by neutralization of Latvia.

For citizenship of Latvia the PR Card holders must meet following requirements:

• The applicants are required to provide details of their residence in past 5 years.

• The applicants must prove a certain proficiency in Latvian language, must have knowledge about Latvian Constitution, they must have learnt the text of Latvia’s national anthem and knowledge about Latvia’s history and culture.

• The applicants must prove their source of income is legal

• The applicants have to provide documented proof of the renunciation of their previous citizenship by providing expiration permit if it is law of their native country, Refugees or stateless persons have to prove they don’t have any other citizenship.

• The children under 15 years of age living in Latvia with their parents will be granted Latvian citizenship along with their parents.

An apt and comfortable accommodation certainly contributes in easing the challenges and hurdles of study abroad years for students. The residence students choose to spend the few most crucial and memorable years of their lives has to be selected with contemplation of their preference and lifestyle. Latvia’s culture is modern and vibrant with exquisite scenic views and clean and pure environment. Latvia’s landscape is surrounded by beaches and forests; its architecture signifies history and multi cultural influence, there are cosmopolitan cities and European charm in the ambience. Latvia has modernly designed apartments and well spread and managed public transportation services. The idyllic temperature and laid back lifestyle of Latvia is nonetheless tempting and alluring but at the same time fast pacing and active as it a European business hub. While planning to study abroad in Latvia, a student has to gather information about the types of accommodation there with estimation of rents and available facilities. The following article is written to give an overview of accommodation in Latvia:

Types of Accommodation

Most of the Latvian Universities offer on campus dormitories but not all. The universities that do not offer on campus housing have student services that assist in searching apt accommodation to foreign students. The foreign students however prefer to live in on campus residence for at least first few semesters of their study programme because of unfamiliarity with surroundings and unknown locations. If the university you have chosen in Latvia for your study programme offers on campus residence, you must book it as soon as possible after getting acceptance letter from university because the rooms are limited and are generally occupied earlier than expected. The university dormitories are most secure and most affordable residence for foreign students. To cater the recent day lifestyle and modern culture, the university dormitories have single or double bedroom facilities. In Latvia, students can book university dormitory for at least 5 months duration and if they wish to leave the dorm before this period they will have to pay rent if months anyway.

Facilities:

• Furnished rooms with bed, mattress, closet, chair, desk and book shelves

• Private bathroom with each room

• Common kitchenette, laundry room

• Common study room in each floor

• Common Gym and Game Room

• Parking Space

• Security surveillance

• Proximity to university campus and public transport stations

Cost:

The dormitories have serviced and self catering options for students. The services provided by dormitory administration including cleaning, weekly changing of bed sheets, providence of kitchen utensils, fridge in the room and free internet. The serviced dorm room will cost 200 Euros per month and the self catered dorm room will cost 100 to 150 Euros per month. Additional charges include entrance card payment when you arrive at dormitory which will be around 7 Euros.

The universities in Latvia that do not have on campus dormitories usually have arranged an off campus accommodation called student hotels. The student’s hotels are located nearby university campus but managed by universities administrations. The student hotels are similar to university dormitories but a bit independent and less restrictive. There are double bedrooms and single bedrooms options and the student has to book it for minimum 3 months duration. The single room are however very limited and booked on first come first get rule. Most of the rooms are double bed and shared by two students. The Apart-hotels have students from different universities under one roof sharing facilities. The experience of living in such apart-hotels is generally broadening and wide.

Facilities:

• Private bathroom with each room

• Common sitting area with TV

• Study rooms

• Parking Space

• 24/7 Reception services (photocopy and fax machine, printer, Free Wi-Fi near reception)

• Kitchenette in each room

• Laundry room with washing machine in each floor for use of all students

• Proximity to university campuses and public transport stations

Cost:

The student hotels or apart-hotels have different prices for single room and double room. The hotels also offer serviced options that include, cleaning once in week, changing bed sheets and free Wi-Fi. The utility bills such as electricity, water, gas are leveled in monthly rent. The administration of the hotel checks the condition of the rooms once in a month and the students are liable to pay for any damage that is being done by them. The cost of hotels is different based on location but on average it will cost 150 Euros for double room and 280 Euros for single room. For booking the international student office of your university will assist you and help you with signing rental contract.

The presence of international students in Latvian universities is almost 30% out of total student strength. Evidently, you can find foreign students belonging from various countries of the world living in Latvia. Because of presence of such large numbers of international students which is increasing each year, the local land owners rent out their houses to foreign students. You can find a single studio apartment, two bedrooms flat, flat sharing accommodation and home stay in Latvia. The costs are different of each type of housing and in private accommodation the utility bills are usually not included in rent. The locality and condition of apartment also contributes in its price and affordability factor. The accommodation near central cities which are located around shopping malls, cafes and public transport stations are pricier. The accommodation located outside central cities will be cheap cost. Depending on your budget and preference, you can find an apartment or single room in Latvia quite easily. The private housing available for student renting can be approached through websites, news papers ads and real estate agents. The types of private housing in Latvia are:

The individuals with shy nature and the one who prefer privacy can rent a solo flat. The solo flat is costly than other options but a rather comfortable and independent housing facility. The flats have furnished and non furnished option but renting a furnished accommodation is a better choice for students. You can find such apartment near to your university or work place, the flats will be modernly designed and contain all the facilities for modern day living. You will have your private kitchen, bathroom, sitting area, laundry space and a balcony. You have all the independence to decorate the place according to your style and convert it as you want. The furniture and kitchen equipment offered by land lords must be in similar condition as when it was handed over to you. The tenant is responsible for his own security and protection of his property.

Cost:

Depending on the area and facilities, the rent of solo flat must be around 250 to 350 Euros.

Flat shares are private housing but affordable and low cost because of rent and bills being divided by residents. A group of friends or university fellows rent a flat together in which each individual can have private room and share kitchen and sitting area. If not friends or university fellows, the land lords too rent their flat to two or three students separately. The real estate agents can help you find a room in flat share accommodation or you can find it yourself through websites and news paper ads. If you want to contact the land lords directly, websites are the best option for that. If you happen to be friends with Latvian students, it can be quite helpful for you to negotiate the rent and accumulate complete information about flat share accommodation. The flat share accommodation is although affordable but it can be risky especially when you don’t know your room mates personally. Their lifestyle and habits can disrupt your peace and lifestyle. It is better to come up with some house rules and set some terms and conditions before signing the rental contract.

Cost:

The cost can be around 200 to 250 Euros per month.

Home stay housing is another option for students. The land lords mostly families rent out a spare room of their house to students or travelers. Some of the rooms in home stays have private entrance, kitchen and balcony and others have just a bedroom space. Home stay accommodation can be rented for long term stay or for just few nights as per the preference of students. It is a costly option especially in cities. In rural areas the rents are considerably low and affordable. The students who are planning to find a private housing after reaching in Latvia, for them home stay is best option. They can take some guideline and information about locations and best accommodation option from their hosting family and move to another private housing when they are settled.  To book home stay accommodation, websites are the most appropriate source. Usually the land lords post pictures and list of available facilities in their home stay room on the website with per night price.

Cost:

The cost of single room in home stay accommodation might range from 17 to 24 Euros per night. Most of the families offer meals to tenants as well.

Latvia has multi ethnic and diversely cultured society, awe inspiring scenic landscape, temperate climate and interesting historical roots promising a best study abroad experience to foreign students. Latvian Universities have earned massive points among international students in past decade because of rapid improvement in education quality, international collaborations and advanced broad cased curriculum design of education. Latvian universities are best known for IT, Business Management, Medicine, Aviation and Literature degrees. Continuous and needed investments in education sector of Latvia by its government are taking its universities and colleges to next level of excellence. Despite availability of state of the art facilities and worldwide degree recognition, the Latvian universities have a reasonable tuition fee structure for foreign students and offer many scholarships programmes to bright students. Students are allowed to work part time in Latvia, the following article is written to explain what perquisites of working part time and working are after completion of studies in Latvia for foreign students.

Part Time Work in Latvia for Foreign Students 2020:

Certainly for international students working part time while studies is an absolute necessity to earn some amount for living expenses and saving for tuition fee payment. Latvia allows foreign student to work part time without requiring any Latvia work permit on student visa. As per the rule of European Union States, international students are restricted to work part time 20 hours a week during semesters and 40 hours a week during semester breaks. The same rule is in Latvia which is a European Union state as well. The popular industries of work in Latvia for part time student workers are textile, fast food restaurants and electronics.

Rights of Employment and Type of Part Time Jobs in Latvia for Foreign Students:

The students have employment rights and minimum wage rights same as natives of Latvia. During work, the students can take breaks; take sick leaves and right to object to unlawful and uninformed dismissal from job.  The minimum monthly salary in Latvia is 430 Euros.

Internships in Latvia for Foreign Students 2020

 Latvian universities have internship and traineeship programmes included in curriculum of certain study programmes and even assist students to find a job placement if they are interested to do internship for professional training. While choosing a study programme and university in Latvia you can search if they offer internship as part of the curriculum or not and take complete information from international students relations office if Latvian Universities. As there is no restriction on finding only certain type of job for part time work, the international students can even join an internship programme related to their professional goals at one of Latvian firms and companies by applying directly and requesting for professional training. The possibilities and opportunities in Latvia for part time work is many for international students as it is business hub of Europe and home to many established businesses and reputable banks.  Especially for IT and Computer Sciences courses, almost all of Latvian Universities have an eighteen week internship programme during semester holidays for professional learning and training that ends with granting certificate.

Post Graduation Work Permission in Latvia for Foreign Students

For Third Country/Non-EU Nationals

After completion of study programme and attending graduation ceremony; the foreign students are bound to exit Latvian territory before Latvian student visa expires. To re enter and work in Latvia they will have to find an employment contract for short term or long term duration and apply for work permit from their country. The fresh graduates can find an employment by sending CVs to companies and firms related to their profession through websites or in person during last semesters of their degree programmes in Latvia. After finding employment the students and their employers have to follow following procedure:

Short Term Employment in Latvia Procedure:

• The required job position or vacancy will be registered by employer at Local Employment Agency.

• If third country national is selected for this job position or vacancy by employer, the next procedure involves submission of application for inviting the employee to Latvia for short term employment.  The application will be submitted at Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs along with employment contract, academic transcripts and qualification details of employee.

• The application submitted by employer will be approved Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs after verification of documents and an invitation letter will be issued on the name of selected employee.

• The invitation letter will be sent to employee from whence the visa process will start at employee’s country. The employee will visit Latvian Consulate or Embassy and submit via application along with required documents and invitation letter.

• After verification of documents, the Embassy will grant visa to employee for right to work permission. On arrival to Latvia, the employee has to register his/her name at State Revenue Service as a tax payer.

Long Term Employment in Latvia Procedure:

The above mention procedure is followed for long term employment visa as well. Except for the fact that the long term employment contract holders will be granted temporary resident permit card of Latvia and they are allowed to do more than one job at a time.

Terms and Conditions of Work Permits in Latvia for Foreign Nationals

The short term or long term work permits of Latvia can be extended. Initially the work permit is granted for one year duration which is extendable based on job contract. The employees can change jobs but they are required to attain no objection certificate from their previous employer. The employer has to pay for health care and accommodation to the employee. The employees have right to receive minimum income criterion set by Latvian Government based on individuals qualification. In case of job dismissal, the employee must be informed the valid reason of dismissal and must be given three months margin to found new employment.  If the third country national changes job, the immigration department must be informed about the new job and new residence of the employee. The short term employment permit can be converted to long term permit if the employer wishes to keep the employee working in its company. The work permits can be extended for 5 years duration maximum after this duration the third country nationals are eligible to apply for PR permit of Latvia.