Validity & processing

The EU Blue Card remains valid for up to five years, while the document processing time might extend to six months.

The card remains valid during employment. In the case of job loss, if the period of unemployment stays within three months, the EU Blue Card remains intact. During this time, the cardholder may receive unemployment benefits for up to three months.

For those seeking permanent EU resident status in Latvia, an EU Blue Card holder may be absent from Latvia for a notably longer duration (18 months) compared to temporary residence permit holders (12 months). This extended absence is permissible if it’s tied to commercial activity as an employee or self-employed individual, or voluntary service.

What is needed to apply for Blue Card in Latvia?

To apply for the EU Blue Card in Latvia, you’ll need:

• A copy of a valid personal identification document recognized in Latvia.
• Passport-sized photographs.
• A clean criminal record from your home country if you’ve resided there for over 12 months.
• Document confirming sufficient means of subsistence (like an employment contract).
• Proof of residence address.

What are the benefits of EU Blue Card?

The EU Blue Card allows you to:

• Enter, re-enter, and stay in the EU country issuing the card.
• Work in a highly qualified position in that Member State.
• Access the same treatment as nationals regarding work, education, social security, health, and other EU services.
• Apply for family reunification permits.
• Accumulate residence time across EU Member States for a long-term residence permit in the EU.

Requirements

• Have a higher education (minimum 3 years of studies) or 5 years of professional experience in the specified field.
• Receive a labor payment not less than the previous year’s average gross labor payment of Latvian employees (1372 EUR per month).
• Hold a valid employment contract for at least 12 months.