Obtaining a residence permit in Latvia - strictly within three months

Please note that the rules for obtaining and issuing residence permit cards have changed.

Before the pandemic, a strict rule was in effect - after a positive residence permit decision (whether for an initial application, annual renewal, or a request for the next five-year period), you had to arrive within three months and issue a new residence permit card at the department.

Those who did not comply with this deadline had their residence permit cancelled.

With the arrival of the pandemic and border closures, this rule was suspended. For example, many people received a decision in 2020 but were only able to arrive in 2021. There were no problems or complications.

Recently, the previous rule has come back into effect! We see that some clients received a decision in March or April, but they are not allowed to obtain their card (if more than three months have already passed).

What is the way out of this situation? If you were unable to arrive due to health conditions, illness, or other valid reasons, you need to write a detailed letter, attach supporting evidence (for example, medical certificates), and send the originals to the department.

Within 3-4 weeks you will receive an official response. If the response is positive and they agree to make an exception, then you will be able to issue residence permit cards. Please note that "general phrases" (work, illness, caring for relatives) do not work. Everything must be written in as much detail as possible, and all circumstances must be confirmed with documents and certificates.

Let us consider one more situation. If your residence permit decision was in late 2021, but you have not visited Latvia since then, the only option is to submit documents for residence permit renewal (and this must be done immediately).

Then you need to come to pick up the card after receiving a positive decision. For example, if the decision was in November 2021, then in July 2022 you will not be able to come and issue a card valid until November 2022. First you will need to submit documents for renewal, wait for a positive response, and only then come to pick up the card.

Given the current situation, we strongly recommend monitoring deadlines and not violating any rules related to the residence permit process. If difficulties arise, you should contact the department with a properly and correctly prepared application.

Email: info@kominvest.com