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Category: Article

Guide for Latvia Visa Requirements

visa requirements schengen latvia

If you plan to visit Latvia, you will most likely need to apply for the Schengen Visa for Latvia. This short-term visa allows you to explore Latvia and stay for up to 90 days within 180 days. The documents you need may vary depending on your nationality and individual circumstances. Whether you’re arriving by land, sea, or air, you must present certain documents to the border police.

cost of schengen latvia visa

Latvia Schengen visa for Thai citizens

Documents required for Thai Citizens
  1. Visa application form: This must be completed in full and signed.
  2. One recent photo (taken within the last 3 months) should be submitted and attached to the application.
  3. Passport with validity of at least 3 months after the planned journey ends (and one copy), plus previous passports if any.
  4. Identity Card, Work Permit, Residence Permit and one copy of each.
  5. Letter of employment (original) or evidence of business ownership, such as Business Registration Certificate (and a copy) and Income Tax Payment Certificate or Receipt (true copy).
  6. For minors (person under 18 travelling alone or with only one parent): birth certificate, proof of custody, (e.g. marriage certificate, divorce certificate, registration of residence); – An authorisation to travel (alone or with one parent) indicating the purpose of the trip and signed by both parents/legal guardians or from the parent/guardian who does not travel, with copy of their passports or national identification cards. The signature(s) should be verified by a legal entity (e.g. municipal registration office or court).
  7. Six months of bank statements or bank account booklets copied and certified by the Bank or original document from the bank (in English) indicating the balance (exact amount); or other proof of sufficient means of subsistence for the intended entire journey and the duration of stay.
  8. Round-trip flight booking (and a copy)
  9. Confirmed hotel reservation (and a copy)
  10. Travel insurance: (plus one copy). The insurance must cover:
  • Cost of repatriation for medical reasons or death.
  • Urgent healthcare and emergency hospital treatment for the entire stay and throughout the Schengen area.
  • Any expenses that might arise with Covid-19 or repatriation for medical reasons.
  • Coverage must be of at least €30,000 or its equivalent in local currency.
    • If the application is for a multiple-entry visa, the medical insurance must be valid for the first planned entry. The LUMA Schengen Travel Pass is highly recommended as it meets all these requirements.
  1. Tourist visa holders must be able to prove possession of the equivalent of 70 euros for each day of their stay within the Schengen area.
  2. For business meetings/partners and persons staying at the residence of Latvia citizens: Invitation issued by the host (with verified signature) which should be sent to the Embassy by fax or e-mail before the day of application. The original may be sent by post.
  3. For persons under 20 years old; Parents’ consent permitting visa issue and for the specific travel (original).
  4. For students: Letter from school/university (original) in English.
  5. Any other documents supporting the purpose and circumstances of the trip. An itinerary of the planned trip if several countries are visited.
  6. Copy of Real Estate Property (title-deed), marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, if relevant.
  7. Visa fee: The fee starts from EUR80.00 per person but may vary depending on the visa type and stay duration.
  8. Application: This should be made in person at the VFS Office in Bangkok.
  9. Document checklist: This should be referred to before making your visa application in person and is available within the online application system.
  10. Fingerprinting will be required during the visa application process.

Latvia Schengen Visa for Indonesia Citizens

Documents required for Indonesian Citizens
  1. Visa application form: This must be completed in full and signed.
  2. One recent photo (taken within the last 3 months) should be submitted and attached to the application.
  3. Passport with validity of at least 3 months after the planned journey ends (and one copy), plus previous passports if any.
  4. Identity Card, Work Permit, Residence Permit and one copy of each.
  5. Letter of employment (original) or evidence of business ownership, such as Business Registration Certificate (and a copy) and Income Tax Payment Certificate or Receipt (true copy).
  6. For minors (person under 18 travelling alone or with only one parent): birth certificate, proof of custody, (e.g. marriage certificate, divorce certificate, registration of residence); – An authorisation to travel (alone or with one parent) indicating the purpose of the trip and signed by both parents/legal guardians or from the parent/guardian who does not travel, with copy of their passports or national identification cards. The signature(s) should be verified by a legal entity (e.g. municipal registration office or court).
  7. Six months of bank statements or bank account booklets copied and certified by the Bank or original document from the bank (in English) indicating the balance (exact amount); or other proof of sufficient means of subsistence for the intended entire journey and the duration of stay.
  8. Round-trip flight booking (and a copy)
  9. Confirmed hotel reservation (and a copy)
  10. Travel insurance: (plus one copy). The insurance must cover:
  11. Cost of repatriation for medical reasons or death.
  12. Urgent healthcare and emergency hospital treatment for the entire stay and throughout the Schengen area.
  13. Any expenses that might arise with Covid-19 or repatriation for medical reasons.
  14. Coverage must be of at least €30,000 or its equivalent in local currency.
    1. If the application is for a multiple-entry visa, the medical insurance must be valid for the first planned entry. The LUMA Schengen Travel Pass is highly recommended as it meets all these requirements.
  15. Tourist visa holders must be able to prove possession of the equivalent of 70 euros for each day of their stay within the Schengen area.
  16. For business meetings/partners and persons staying at the residence of Latvia citizens: Invitation issued by the host (with verified signature) which should be sent to the Embassy by fax or e-mail before the day of application. The original may be sent by post.
  17. For persons under 20 years old; Parents’ consent permitting visa issue and for the specific travel (original).
  18. For students: Letter from school/university (original) in English.
  19. Any other documents supporting the purpose and circumstances of the trip. An itinerary of the planned trip if several countries are visited.
  20. Copy of Real Estate Property (title-deed), marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, if relevant.
  21. Visa fee: The fee starts from EUR80.00 per person but may vary depending on the visa type and stay duration.
  22. Application: This should be made in person at the VFS Office in Jakarta.
  23. Document checklist: This should be referred to before making your visa application in person and is available within the online application system.

Fingerprinting will be required during the visa application process.

Latvia Schengen visa for Philippine citizens

Documents required for Philippine Citizens
  1. Visa application form: This must be completed in full and signed.
  2. One recent photo (taken within the last 3 months) should be submitted and attached to the application.
  3. Passport with validity of at least 3 months after the planned journey ends (and one copy), plus previous passports if any.
  4. Identity Card, Work Permit, Residence Permit and one copy of each.
  5. Letter of employment (original) or evidence of business ownership, such as Business Registration Certificate (and a copy) and Income Tax Payment Certificate or Receipt (true copy).
  6. For minors (person under 18 travelling alone or with only one parent): birth certificate, proof of custody, (e.g. marriage certificate, divorce certificate, registration of residence); – An authorisation to travel (alone or with one parent) indicating the purpose of the trip and signed by both parents/legal guardians or from the parent/guardian who does not travel, with copy of their passports or national identification cards. The signature(s) should be verified by a legal entity (e.g. municipal registration office or court).
  7. Six months of bank statements or bank account booklets copied and certified by the Bank or original document from the bank (in English) indicating the balance (exact amount); or other proof of sufficient means of subsistence for the intended entire journey and the duration of stay.
  8. Round-trip flight booking (and a copy)
  9. Confirmed hotel reservation (and a copy)
  10. Travel insurance: (plus one copy). The insurance must cover:
  11. Cost of repatriation for medical reasons or death.
  12. Urgent healthcare and emergency hospital treatment for the entire stay and throughout the Schengen area.
  13. Any expenses that might arise with Covid-19 or repatriation for medical reasons.
  14. Coverage must be of at least €30,000 or its equivalent in local currency.
    1. If the application is for a multiple-entry visa, the medical insurance must be valid for the first planned entry. The LUMA Schengen Travel Pass is highly recommended as it meets all these requirements.
  15. Tourist visa holders must be able to prove possession of the equivalent of 70 euros for each day of their stay within the Schengen area.
  16. For business meetings/partners and persons staying at the residence of Latvia citizens: Invitation issued by the host (with verified signature) which should be sent to the Embassy by fax or e-mail before the day of application. The original may be sent by post.
  17. For persons under 20 years old; Parents’ consent permitting visa issue and for the specific travel (original).
  18. For students: Letter from school/university (original) in English.
  19. Any other documents supporting the purpose and circumstances of the trip. An itinerary of the planned trip if several countries are visited.
  20. Copy of Real Estate Property (title-deed), marriage certificate, birth certificate of children, if relevant.
  21. Visa fee: The fee starts from EUR80.00 per person but may vary depending on the visa type and stay duration.
  22. Application: This should be made in person at the VFS Office for the Netherlands. The Visa Application Centre for the Netherlands in the Philippines also accepts short-stay Schengen visa applications for Latvia.
  23. Document checklist: This should be referred to before making your visa application in person and is available within the online application system.
  24. Fingerprinting will be required during the visa application process.

Latvia Schengen Visa for Singapore Citizens

Visa Exemption: According to the current regulations, citizens do not need a visa to enter the countries of the Schengen Agreement, including Latvia, as tourists or business travellers if their stay is no longer than 90 days within 6 months. Verifying with the Embassy in Singapore before travel for any updated Latvia visa requirements is recommended. It is also recommended to check again the prevailing Schengen Visa for Latvia requirements before planning to travel.

Latvia Schengen Visa for Malaysia Citizens

Visa Exemption: According to the current guidance, Malaysian citizens do not need a visa to enter the countries of the Schengen Agreement, including Latvia. As there is no Latvian embassy in Malaysia at present, it is recommended to check the Latvia visa requirements with the Latvian Embassy in Singapore or another neighboring country for further verification before planning your travel. 

What is the cost of a Schengen visa for Latvia

The cost of obtaining a Schengen Visa which forms part of the Latvia visa requirements can vary based on the applicant’s age, visa type, and nationality. As of the last update, the general visa fee structure for the Schengen visa is as follows:

  • Adults: EUR80
  • Children (6-12 years old): EUR40
  • Children under 6 years: Free of charge

However, there are exceptions and reductions:

  • Students: Reduced fees or waivers may apply for students or postgraduates and accompanying teachers on educational trips.
  • Researchers: Individuals travelling for scientific research may benefit from reduced fees.
  • Diplomatic passport holders: can obtain a visa for free.
  • Certain categories of applicants from countries with Visa Facilitation Agreements with the Schengen states may be subject to a reduced visa fee of EUR35.
  • Long-term visas: National visas or Type D visas, intended for longer stays or any other Schengen country, might have a different fee structure.

Fees are non-refundable, even if your visa application is rejected. Additionally, visa processing agencies or centres might charge an additional service fee.

documents latvia visa

Can I switch my visa type or my residence status while in Latvia?

In some cases, it may be possible to switch your visa type while in Latvia, but this typically depends on the type of visa you currently hold and the specific circumstances. For example, if you initially entered Latvia on a tourist visa (Schengen visa) and later wish to study or work in Latvia, you would generally need to leave the Schengen Area and apply for a new visa or residence permit that matches your new purpose.

If you are in Latvia on a temporary residence permit and wish to change your residence status, such as from a student to a work permit holder or from a work permit holder to a family reunification residence permit, you would typically need to follow the specific application process for the new residence status. This often involves submitting the required documentation, meeting eligibility criteria, and sometimes leaving Latvia to apply for a new permit from your home country or another Schengen country.

Can I extend my short stay Schengen Visa in Latvia?

Schengen visas are generally not extendable. If you require an extension, you must have a valid reason, such as a medical emergency or force majeure, and you should contact the Latvian immigration authorities or the embassy well before your visa’s expiration date.

schengen latvia visa

FAQ for when applying for a Latvia Schengen Visa

What is the Schengen visa application fee, and how can I pay it?

The Schengen visa application fee varies depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. You can typically pay this fee at the Latvian embassy or consulate in your home country, or through an authorized visa service provider. Payment methods can include cash, credit/debit cards, or other methods as specified by the visa application centre.

Is booking my flights and accommodation mandatory before applying for a Schengen visa for Latvia?

While you are not required to purchase flights or make accommodation bookings before applying for a Schengen visa, you must provide proof of your travel itinerary and accommodation arrangements as part of your application. It is recommended to have a tentative travel plan in place, including flight reservations and accommodation details, to support your visa application.

visa requirements latvia

LUMA Schengen Pass for Latvia Travel Insurance

Here are some reasons why you should consider choosing LUMA for your Schengen travel insurance needs:

  • Extensive coverage: With coverage starting at EUR30,000 LUMA offers comprehensive protection throughout your trip, giving you peace of mind as you explore Europe.
  • Flexible options: Whether you’re planning an individual trip or multiple trips within a year, LUMA Schengen Pass Travel Insurance has got you covered.
  • Wide range of eligibility: LUMA is designed to accommodate travellers of various age groups, from 1 year old to 85 years old.
  • Perfect for South East Asian travellers: If you’re departing from South East Asia, LUMA Schengen Pass Travel Insurance is tailored to meet your needs.

But that’s not all! Here are some additional benefits you can enjoy with LUMA:

  • Easy application process: Applying for LUMA insurance is a breeze – do it online and receive your insurance certificate via email.
  • Trustworthy and reliable: Join over 60,000 fellow travellers who have placed their trust in LUMA. With a proven track record, LUMA is a name you can rely on.
  • Globally recognized: LUMA insurance is widely accepted by embassies around the world, making your visa application process smoother and hassle-free.

So why compromise on your travel insurance? Choose LUMA Schengen Pass Travel Insurance and experience the peace of mind you deserve while exploring Europe.

Travel Insurance for Latvia Schengen Visa

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Ultimate Guide to the Thailand Healthcare System

Thailand’s healthcare system is one area that Thailand boasts, and can be proud of. With something in place for all residents of Thailand, there is some peace of mind that your health will be taken care of. Thailand’s health care system is currently ranked 9th place worldwide, and being known for medical tourism, it’s not surprise that some private hospitals in Thailand are ranked in the top 5 in the world.

The Thailand Healthcare system can be split into three areas:

  • Civil Servant Medical Benefit Scheme (CSMBS) : for civil servants and family members who are entitled to a separated welfare system.

  • Social Security Scheme (SSO) : for private sector employees (both Thai and Expats) who pay contributions monthly.

  • Universal Health Coverage : known as the 30 baht scheme, for any uninsured Thai citizen.

 

universal health care thailand

Thailand’s Healthcare Systems explained

Thailand’s healthcare system is structured to provide coverage for its residents through three main schemes. These include the Civil Servant Medical Benefit Scheme (CSMBS) for government employees, the Social Security Scheme (SSS) for private sector workers, and the Universal Health Coverage (UHC), also known as the 30 Baht Scheme, for uninsured Thai citizens. Each system is designed to offer access to medical care based on employment status and eligibility, ensuring that nearly all Thai residents have some form of healthcare coverage. 

 

Highlights of CSMBS:

  • Available to current and retired civil servants, their souses, parents and up to three children who are under the age of 20 years old.

  • payment is a retrospective unlimited fee-for-service model, coring both inpatient and outpatient medical services.

  • Direct Billing services were introduced in 2003, allowed users to easily access medical care.

 

The CSMBS is part of Thailand’s broader healthcare system, which also includes the Social Security Scheme (SSS) for private sector employees and the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS) for those not covered by other schemes. This comprehensive system ensures that nearly all Thai citizens have access to healthcare, with seamless transitions between schemes based on employment status or age.

Highlights of the Social Security Scheme:

  • Contribution structure combining employees, employers and the government each contribute 5% of the employee’s monthly salary, which can cover medical benefits, work injury compensation, disability, maternity, unemployment and retirement.

  • Offering health insurance and medical benefits, including general treatment, hospitalization, surgery and medication.

  • Maternity benefits offering a lump sum payment for childbirth expenses, currently at 15,000 THB per childbirth. Maternity leave compensation is also provided, at 50% of salary for up to 98 days per child.

  • Disability compensation based on the severity of the disability, ranging from 50% – 100% of salary, and lifetime support if offered for severe disabilities.

  • Benefits allocated for death, include funeral support of 50,000 THB and a lump sum payout to dependents.

 

The Social Security System (SSS) was launched in Thailand in 1990 and is managed by the Social Security Office (SSO) under the Ministry of Labour. The aim is to provide protection to employees.

Highlights of Universal Health Coverage system, (30 baht scheme):

  • All Thai citizens are eligible for the healthcare program as long as they are not covered under the Social Security Scheme or the Civil Servant Medical Benefits Scheme, to register for the program, you must register at a designated hospital near your residence.

  • Very affordable health care: patients pay only 30 THB per visit, and is completely free for vulnerable groups such as low-income individuals, elderly, disabled persons and children.

  • Covers IPD and OPD, medication, emergency treatment, maternity and childbirth, chronic disease management, vaccinations, and mental health services.

 

The Universal Health Coverage system in Thailand, more commonly known as the “30 Baht Scheme” was introduced in 2002 with an aim to provide affordable healthcare to all Thai citizens, it is currently managed by the National Health Security Office (NHSO) and is considered one of the most comprehensive public healthcare systems in the world.

universal health care thailand expats

Healthcare Service Providers

Almost all hospitals in Bangkok that treat foreigners will have English speaking staff who will answer all of your questions and give you the information you need.

 

Regulations and Restrictions on Pharmaceuticals

The Thai FDA categorizes medicines into four groups based on their level of restriction:

  • General Sales List (OTC drugs) – Can be sold freely (e.g., paracetamol, vitamins).
  • Pharmacist-Dispensed Medicines – Require a pharmacist’s supervision (e.g., antibiotics).
  • Prescription-Only Medicines (POMs) – Require a doctor’s prescription (e.g., blood pressure medication, antidepressants).
  • Controlled or Narcotic Drugs – Highly restricted, requiring special permits (e.g., morphine, amphetamines).

 

Public hospitals

Public hospitals in Thailand can offer a good standard of medical care, some very well known for specific areas of medical care, and the majority of Thai citizens use these facilities. However, it’s key to be aware that public hospitals often have much longer waiting times, crowded conditions and the main limitation would be English-speaking staff and medical professionals.

Additionally, some public hospitals may have older equipment and less specialist services compared to a private hospital.

Private Hospitals

Private hospitals in Thailand are very well known for world-class medical services, modern facilities and doctors. With Thailand become a medical tourism hub, it’s no surprise that the top private hospitals in Thailand are featuring the newest, cutting-edge medical technology to faciliate medical care even more. With English-speaking staff, and even translators such as Arabic and Japanese, along with more efficient systems resulting in shorter waiting times, expats and foreigners often choose to go to a private hospital.

thailand universal health care expats

What to do in case of an emergency in Thailand

Thailand offers a comprehensive emergency response system, understanding how to access medical help can be crucial. In an emergency, you must call the emergency number of your chosen and nearest hospital or go straight to a hospital.

  • Ambulance and Rescue: 1554 

    • Vajira Hospital Emergency Unit

    • For sudden illnesses

  • National Emergency Medical Service: 1669

    • Available 24/7

    • Operated by the National Institute for Emergency Medicine

    • Can provide immediate medical assistance

    • Can provide immediate ambulance dispatch

    • Free of Charge

  • Tourist Police Hotline: 1155

    • Support provided in English

    • Assisting tourists and expats with emergency communications

    • Can help during language barriers with medical emergencies

 

If you are unable to speak Thai, the English-speaking helpline would be the Tourist Police.

 

Additional Emergency Response options

Private Hospital Ambulance services

  • Dedicated ambulances services can often provide faster response times

  • Comes with a fee

 

Volunteer Rescue Organizations: Ruamkatanyu Foundation and Poh Teck Tung Foundation

  • Provides free emergency response services

  • Can offer first aid and followed by hospital transportation

  • Staffed by trained volunteers

Read more about how to call an Ambulance in Thailand. 

 

Access to healthcare for Expats and Foreigners in Thailand

Over the years, Thailand has become one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads, expatriates and retirees, however, unlike Thai citizens, foreign residents are not automatically covered under the public healthcare systems. Therefore, understanding the available healthcare options, medical costs and insurance requirements is crucial for expats and foreigners to ensure a smooth and healthy time in Thailand.

Uninsured foreigners in Thailand

The estimated 3 million foreign national residents in Thailand cannot benefit themselves from the Universal Health Coverage scheme. Accordingly, they are excluded from healthcare coverage if they are not insured under the Social Security Scheme.

 

Expats Health Insurance in Thailand

Although Thai healthcare systems in both public and private hospitals provide reasonable medical coverage, many expats working or living in Thailand prefer to rely on private health insurance.  

Private insurance companies provide a wide variety of medical plans which offer health insurance coverage to suit your requirements. Private medical coverage guarantees access to an excellent standard of care at a range of private facilities. If choosing this route, there are a number of trustworthy international companies that can provide health insurance for expats in Thailand, so that they are able to fully access the private health care system.

 

The future of Thailand’s medical landscape

Thailand’s healthcare system is continuing to evolve, mainly driven by government initiatives and advancements in technology. With the growth of medical tourism placing Thailand as a global leader in this sector, the government continues to put emphasize and priority of the medical facilities in Thailand.

 

Thailand is slowly, but steadily, adopting Telemedicine and increasing the use of digital health, allowing patients to consult with doctors remotely, accessing medical records electronically and almost immediately, and we can definitely see the increasing use of AI and Robotics in healthcare in Thailand.

 

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Telemedicine in Thailand

Telemedicine is the provision of remote clinical services and patient care, via real-time two-way communication between the patient and the healthcare provider, using over the phone or a video call.

Telemedicine requires no significant outlay other than two things: a web camera, and a secure patient portal that connects the doctor to a secured electronic medical record database online. This ensures safety, the ability to store necessary medical records, and connectivity. Practicing telemedicine can be done via the Government Information Network (GIN) and VDO High definition (HD).

what is telemedicine

Benefits of Telemedicine

Telemedicine is expected to reduce expenses for both patients and state-run hospitals and help improve access to healthcare services and treatment among people in rural areas. Also, this will help solve the country’s shortages of healthcare professionals and well-equipped healthcare providers.

In Thailand, there is only one doctor for every 2,065 people, compared to World Health Organization standards stating that communities should have one doctor for every 439 people.

telemedicine in thailand

Why and When do you Need Telemedicine?

When people can’t make it to the doctor in person. Health issues can arise at any time. When you cannot get to a medical facility due to your location, financial means or otherwise, you can request a virtual live video consult from home, at work or while traveling.

 

When people need care after official working hours

Many doctors work regular office hours, Monday through Friday. But 75% of life happens outside that window of time. With telemedicine, you can meet specialists even late at night or on the weekend.

 

When people have age or chronic disease-related issues

Some patients with diabetes, heart disease, or other chronic diseases may need continued support or may be too vulnerable to travel. Telemedicine will help these people get access to follow-up care or immediate treatment if needed.  The doctor can remotely make medical evaluations based on seeing and talking with the patient. If the patient is using wearable health tech, the physician and patients may be able to report vital signs as well.

 

When people need a second medical opinion

Second medical opinion is an important additional viewpoint on the patient diagnosis and treatment. Telemedicine with a network of specialist will provide patients alternatives for their treatment approaches.

telemedicine health insurance

How can you access telemedicine in Thailand?

Among the participating health providers offering a telemedicine programme, Samitivej, one of Thailand’s leading private hospitals, debuts the country’s first virtual hospital.  

Samitivej Virtual Hospital is an online hospital, providing telemedicine services through mobile devices. Samitivej Virtual Hospital is designed to assist patients and medical staff in communicating with each other in order to offer health consultation in real time. Key focus is to increase customer convenience by offering easier access to the services provided by Samitivej’s team of specialist doctors, nurses and multidisciplinary experts.

 

For those who have health insurance, please check with your insurance company if telemedicine is included in your plan.

Telemedicine as a tool for delivering medical care and growing especially in Thailand. Medical professionals and governments are adopting to new technologies like telemedicine. 

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Related Readings

The Ultimate Guide to Hospitals in Thailand

Guide to Best Hospitals in Thailand
Read Guide

Guide to Common Diseases in Thailand

A comprehensive guide about common diseases and sickness in Thailand
Read Guide

Samitivej Hospital

Leading Medical Care in Thailand
Read Guide
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