In 2024, Latvia actively seeks international talents to address its skill shortages, offering various work visas tailored to diverse professional needs. This presents a golden opportunity for global job seekers to leverage their skills in a country valuing and rewarding expertise. With competitive salaries and growing demand in sectors like IT, engineering, and healthcare, Latvia offers a unique chance to advance your career in an environment actively seeking and appreciating global talent.
Here’s an insightful guide on navigating Latvia’s work visa landscape in 2024, understanding the types, eligibility criteria, and skill shortage jobs available:
Understanding Latvia’s Work Visa Types in 2024:
1. A Visa (Highly Qualified Specialists):
- Target Group: Individuals with exceptional skills crucial for Latvia’s economic growth.
- Validity: Up to 3 years (extendable).
- Requirements: High academic qualifications, relevant work experience, and sponsorship from a Latvian employer.
2. B Visa (Skilled Workers):
- Target Group: Professionals with specific skills needed in the Latvian labor market.
- Validity: Up to 2 years.
- Requirements: Professional qualifications, relevant work experience, and sponsorship from a Latvian employer.
3. C Visa (Seasonal Workers):
- Target Group: For temporary jobs in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and construction.
- Validity: Up to 9 months within a 12-month period.
- Requirements: Employment contract in Latvia, proof of sufficient financial resources, and health insurance.
4. D Visa (Intra-corporate Transferees):
- Target Group: Employees of multinational companies moving to a branch or subsidiary in Latvia.
- Validity: Up to 3 years (extendable).
- Requirements: Employment contract with the Latvian branch and proof of at least 1 year of employment with the parent company.
5. Seasonal Work Visa:
- Target Group: For specific seasonal roles, mainly in agriculture, forestry, and tourism.
- Validity: Up to 9 months within 12 months.
- Requirements: Employment contract with a Latvian employer, adequate financial resources, and health insurance.
Is there any Job Search VISA Available for Latvia in 2024?
- While Latvia doesn’t have a specific “Job Search Visa,” alternatives include visa-free entry for 90 days, a Business Visa (C-type) for up to 90 days, and a Long-term Residence Permit for Highly Qualified Specialists (A-type Visa).
Skill Shortage Occupations in Latvia in 2024:
- The demand is high in sectors such as ICT Professionals, Engineers, Health Professionals, and Business Professionals. Medium-skilled occupations like lorry drivers, construction workers, and chefs are also in demand.
Where to Find Jobs in Latvia in 2024?
You can search for above mentioned skill shortage jobs in Latvian on any of the following platforms:
- Government Job Boards: State Employment Agency of Latvia and Employment State Service.
- Commercial Job Boards: CV-Online, LinkedIn, and Visidarbi.lv.
