South Africa passport → Latvia

Latvia visa for citizens of South Africa

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (C) · Tourist

Citizens of South Africa 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 · Schengen Visa (C) · Tourist
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90 + €30 service fee
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements showing minimum balance equivalent to €50 per day of stay

How to apply

1
Gather required documents
Collect all documents listed above, including passport, photos, insurance, itinerary, accommodation, bank statements, and employment proof.
2
Complete the visa application form online
Fill in the Schengen visa application form on the Latvian MFA website, then print and sign it.
3
Book an appointment at VFS Global or the Embassy
Schedule an appointment through the VFS Global website or the Embassy of Latvia in Pretoria (responsible for South Africa).
4
Attend the appointment to submit documents and biometrics
Visit the visa centre on the scheduled date with all documents; provide fingerprints and photo (biometrics) for the VIS database.
5
Pay the visa fee
Pay the standard Schengen visa fee (€80 for adults, €40 for children 6-12, free for under 6) at the appointment.
6
Track the application status
You can track processing via the VFS Global portal using the receipt number; typical processing takes 15 calendar days.
7
Collect the passport
Once decided, collect your passport from the visa centre or receive it by courier (if opted).

Documents checklist

Travel

Round-trip flight itinerary
Confirmed reservation, not necessarily purchased
Proof of accommodation
Hotel booking, rental agreement, or invitation letter
Copy of return ticket
Optional
May be requested upon submission

Financial

Bank statements for the last 3 months
Showing sufficient funds for the trip

Employment

Proof of employment
Employment letter with salary, position, and leave approval; or self-employment documents

Supporting

Completed Schengen visa application form
Must be signed and dated
Valid South African passport
Valid for at least 3 months beyond departure from Schengen area, with 2 blank pages
Two recent passport-size photographs
35x45 mm, white background, not older than 6 months
Travel medical insurance
Minimum coverage of €30,000, valid throughout Schengen area
Cover letter explaining the purpose of travel
Detailed itinerary and reason for visit

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €50 per day of stay

bank statements
sponsorship letter

If sponsored, provide sponsor's bank statements and a notarized letter of sponsorship.

Good to know

Applications must be submitted at least 15 days before travel (but not more than 6 months prior).
Incomplete applications may be rejected. Ensure all documents are correctly filled and signed.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient proof of financial means

Provide clear bank statements showing a daily minimum of €50 and a sponsor letter if applicable.

Invalid travel insurance

Purchase insurance that covers €30,000 medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation.

Unclear purpose of visit or itinerary

Write a detailed cover letter with flight bookings, accommodation reservations, and planned activities.

FAQ

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Latvia?

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Latvia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa (C) · Tourist.

How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Latvia?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Latvia visa cost for citizens of South Africa?

Government fee: €90 + €30 service fee.

How long does Latvia visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Latvia?

Completed Schengen visa application form; Valid South African passport; Two recent passport-size photographs; Travel medical insurance; Round-trip flight itinerary; Proof of accommodation; and 4 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Latvia?

At least 3 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.mfa.gov.lv/en/visa-application

Sources

mfa.gov.lv

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