---
title: Latvia visa for citizens of South Africa
description: "Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Latvia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: €90 + €30 service fee. Processing: 15–45 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/latvia/south-africa
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Latvia visa for citizens of South Africa

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.*

Official application site: https://www.mfa.gov.lv/en/visa-application

## 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

- **Completed Schengen visa application form** (Supporting): Must be signed and dated
- **Valid South African passport** (Supporting): Valid for at least 3 months beyond departure from Schengen area, with 2 blank pages
- **Two recent passport-size photographs** (Supporting): 35x45 mm, white background, not older than 6 months
- **Travel medical insurance** (Supporting): Minimum coverage of €30,000, valid throughout Schengen area
- **Round-trip flight itinerary** (Travel): Confirmed reservation, not necessarily purchased
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel): Hotel booking, rental agreement, or invitation letter
- **Bank statements for the last 3 months** (Financial): Showing sufficient funds for the trip
- **Proof of employment** (Employment): Employment letter with salary, position, and leave approval; or self-employment documents
- **Cover letter explaining the purpose of travel** (Supporting): Detailed itinerary and reason for visit
- **Copy of return ticket** (Travel, optional): May be requested upon submission

## 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.

## FAQs

### 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](https://www.mfa.gov.lv/en/visa-application)

## More

- [Latvia visa for every passport](/visa/latvia)
- [Every destination for South Africa passport holders](/visa/passport/south-africa)