Ethiopia passport → Latvia

Latvia visa for citizens of Ethiopia

Embassy / VFSShort-stay Schengen visa (C visa)

Citizens of Ethiopia need a visa for Latvia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Short-stay Schengen visa (C visa)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90 + €30 service fee
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for the last 3 months showing sufficient funds for the stay (at least 50 EUR per day)

How to apply

1
Determine visa type
Confirm you need a short-stay Schengen visa (C visa) for tourism, business, or family visit
2
Gather required documents
Collect all documents as per the checklist from VFS Global or Latvian embassy
3
Fill online application form
Complete the visa application form on the VFS Global website for Latvia
4
Pay visa fee
Pay the visa fee and service fee online or at the visa center
5
Schedule an appointment
Book an appointment at the nearest VFS Global visa application centre
6
Attend appointment
Visit the VFS centre with all documents, submit biometrics (photos and fingerprints)
7
Track application
Use the VFS tracking number to monitor your visa status online
8
Collect passport
When ready, collect your passport or receive it via courier

Documents checklist

Identity

Completed visa application form
Signed and dated
Valid passport
At least 2 blank pages, valid for at least 3 months beyond intended stay
Recent passport-sized photographs
2 photos, white background, 35x45mm

Travel

Travel health insurance
Minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR, valid for entire Schengen area
Round-trip flight reservation
Confirmed itinerary with entry and exit dates
Accommodation proof
Hotel bookings or invitation letter from host

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds
Bank statements, salary slips, or sponsorship letter

Employment

Employment letter
Letter from employer stating position, salary, and leave approval

Supporting

Proof of ties to home country
Optional
e.g., property ownership, family certificates
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Optional
Optional but recommended

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: 50 EUR per day of stay

Bank statements
Salary slips
Sponsorship letter

Bank statements must be from the last 3 months and show sufficient balance

Good to know

Processing times may vary due to high demand or incomplete applications.
Ensure all documents are translated into English or Latvian if not originally in those languages.
Visa fees are non-refundable regardless of the outcome.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign the form.

Insufficient proof of funds

Provide bank statements and other evidence showing adequate funds.

Weak ties to home country

Include documents like property ownership, employment, or family ties to demonstrate return intent.

Invalid or expired travel insurance

Purchase a policy that meets Schengen requirements (min 30,000 EUR, covers entire stay).

FAQ

Do citizens of Ethiopia need a visa for Latvia?

Citizens of Ethiopia need a visa for Latvia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Short-stay Schengen visa (C visa).

How long can citizens of Ethiopia stay in Latvia?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Latvia visa cost for citizens of Ethiopia?

Government fee: €90 + €30 service fee.

How long does Latvia visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Ethiopia need for Latvia?

Completed visa application form; Valid passport; Recent passport-sized photographs; Travel health insurance; Round-trip flight reservation; Accommodation proof; and 4 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Latvia?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/gbr/en/lva/apply-visa

Sources

Apply for a visa | vfsglobal
Applying for a visa | Ārlietu ministrija
Latvia Visa Requirements for Ethiopia Citizens 2026 | Documents, Fees ... (eammu.com, third-party site)

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