Latvia is a country in the Baltic region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus, and also shares a maritime border with Sweden. Latvia is a member of the World Trade Organization and has been one of the fastest-growing economies in Europe since the year 2000. The three largest cities of Latvia are Riga, Ventspils, and Liepaja.
Student accommodation in Latvia is mainly provided through university dormitories and hostels. These accommodations offer essential facilities and are recommended due to their affordability and convenience. Private accommodation outside campus can be costly and difficult to negotiate, but overall living costs remain lower than many other European destinations.
International students holding a Latvian student visa do not need a separate work permit. They are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week. Part-time employment helps students manage daily expenses and tuition costs.
International students can stay back in Latvia for up to six months after completing their studies. During this period, they may search for internships or permanent job opportunities to extend their stay.
Study abroad scholarships are a great way to fund the expenses for international students. Some countries have mutual agreements with Latvia, allowing students to benefit from science scholarships to study in Latvia. Other students can apply for government-funded scholarships, university-offered scholarships, and scholarships from private organizations. These scholarships may be provided as tuition fee waivers or financial aid.
Non-EU students are required to obtain a visa to study in Latvia. Since most academic programs in Latvia are longer than 90 days, students must apply for a residence permit. The university to which the student is admitted assists with the visa and residence permit application process.
Visa processing may take time, so students are advised to apply early to avoid last-minute complications. The university will send the required documents for official verification as part of the process.
Latvia is one of the most affordable countries in Europe for international students. Universities in Latvia offer lower tuition fees while maintaining high-quality academic programs. Most higher education courses in Science, Mathematics, Technology, and Management are offered in English.
For students seeking a rewarding and affordable study abroad experience in Europe, Latvia is an ideal destination. Below is an overview of the costs associated with studying and living in Latvia.
Study abroad scholarships are a great way to fund the expenses for international students. Latvia offers government scholarships, university scholarships, and private scholarships. These may include tuition fee waivers or financial aid.
Non-EU students must apply for a student visa and later a residence permit. The application fee for a Latvia student visa is €60. Universities assist students with document verification and visa procedures.
| Level of Study | Average Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | €3000 – €5000 |
| Medicine Degree | €15000 |
| Master’s Degree (EU/Swiss) | €1700 |
| Master’s Degree (International) | €3700 |
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Dorm / Hostel | €70 – €120 |
| Shared Apartment | €100 – €200 |
| Private Apartment | €250 – €350 |
| Food | €150 – €250 |
| Transport | €16 |
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Dorm / Hostel | €40 – €110 |
| Shared Apartment | €50 – €150 |
| Private Apartment | €150 – €300 |
| Food | €130 |
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Dorm / Hostel | €47 – €69 |
| Shared Apartment | €85 – €100 |
| Private Apartment | €100 – €220 |
| Food | €120 – €230 |
International students need a Long Stay Student Visa (Type D) for courses that are longer than 90 days in Latvia. Before 90 days of entering Latvia or upon arrival, students must apply for a residence permit in Latvia.
The first step to apply for a Latvia Student Visa is registering on the VFS website, where students can also book an appointment for visa application submission. Applications can be submitted at the nearest embassy or consulate. If physical access is not available, a video conference option is provided.
The VFS charges are approximately €20, and if a video conference is required, an additional €35 must be paid. Students must pay the visa fees while booking and registering for the appointment.
Latvia Visa Fees: €60 (Non-refundable)
For a successful application, students must complete the Latvian Long Stay Student Visa Application Form, which can be filled and downloaded from the PLMP registration website. Along with the application form, supporting documents are required.
The Latvia Student Visa processing time varies depending on the country of application. On average, it takes around 15 working days from the submission date. If additional verification or inspections are required, the process may take up to 60 days.
Applicants can track the visa status online through their VFS account and are generally notified within 2 weeks or 15 days.
The documents required for the residence permit are almost the same as those for the student visa. The invitation letter for the residence permit is submitted by the Latvian university to the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA) for evaluation.
The consulate fee for residence permit processing is €80, along with additional legislation fees of €15. Only after OCMA approval, the student is granted the Type D Student Visa. The entire process may take more than 40 days, so timely application is essential.
International students holding a valid student visa are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week in Latvia. Proof of employment, such as an employment contract, must be provided. In some cases, a separate work permit may be required.
Latvia offers an attractive stay-back option for international students after completing their studies. Students who complete a master’s degree in Latvia are eligible for a six- month stay-back period. This allows graduates to pursue internships, gain international work experience, or search for permanent employment opportunities in Latvia.
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