Get Your Latvia Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Descent : You may be eligible for Latvian citizenship if your parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent was a Latvian citizen before 1940 and fled due to war or occupation. Dual citizenship is allowed in this case.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals can apply after 5 years of permanent residency (10 years total residence), a Latvian language test, and knowledge of the constitution and national anthem.
- By Marriage: Marriage to a Latvian citizen does not grant automatic eligibility but may reduce residency requirements toward naturalization.
- Dual Citizenship Restrictions: Latvia only allows dual citizenship with certain countries, including EU/NATO members, EFTA countries, Australia, Brazil, New Zealand, and the U.S. Other applicants may be required to renounce their original citizenship unless applying by descent.
Step-by-Step Process
- Identify your eligibility path: descent or naturalization.
- Submit your application through the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA) or a Latvian embassy abroad.
- Provide documentation proving ancestry, residence, or legal marriage (if applicable).
- Pass a language and citizenship knowledge test (for naturalization).
- Receive citizenship certificate and register in the Latvian civil registry.
Benefits of Latvian Citizenship
- Live and work freely in all EU countries
- Hold dual citizenship (if eligible under Latvian law)
- Pass citizenship to children and future generations
- Access to Latvian healthcare, education, and services
- Visa-free travel to over 180 countries
Frequently asked questions.
Does Latvia allow dual citizenship?
Only in specific cases. Latvia allows dual citizenship for people who apply through descent or who are citizens of certain countries (EU, NATO, EFTA, U.S., Canada, etc.). Others may be required to renounce their original citizenship unless applying through ancestry.
Can I get Latvian citizenship through grandparents?
Yes. If your grandparent or great-grandparent was a Latvian citizen before 1940 and left due to war or occupation, you may qualify — and retain your current citizenship.
Can I get citizenship through marriage?
Marriage to a Latvian citizen does not automatically confer citizenship but may ease residency requirements for naturalization.
Will I owe taxes in both countries?
Latvia taxes residents on worldwide income. Non-residents are only taxed on Latvian-source income. Tax treaties may help you avoid double taxation. Consult a tax professional based on your country of residence.