Dual Citizen Club
Countries/Latvia/Citizenship by Descent

Latvia Citizenship by Descent: Complete Guide 2025

Claim Latvia citizenship through your Latvia ancestors going back up to 2 generations. Get EU citizenship with access to 27 European countries.

72%
Success Rate
3-6 months
Typical Process Time
€300-900
Total Cost

What is Latvia Citizenship by Descent?

Latvia citizenship by descent allows individuals with Latvia heritage to claim citizenship through their parents or grandparents. This pathway recognizes the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood), allowing those with Latvia ancestry to reclaim their heritage and gain EU citizenship.

Key Benefits of Latvia Citizenship

  • EU Citizenship: Live, work, and study in any of 27 EU countries
  • Strong Passport: Visa-free travel to 183 destinations
  • No Residency Requirement: Can obtain without living in Latvia
  • 2-Generation Eligibility: Up to 2 generations back
  • Dual Citizenship: Keep your original nationality

Latvia Citizenship Costs: Complete Breakdown

$700
Minimum (DIY)
$700 - $2,200
Typical Range
$4,200
Maximum (Full Service)

Detailed Cost Breakdown:

Government Application Fee
Required

Official Latvia nationality application fee

Standard fee for citizenship by descent applications

$300 - $900
Document Collection
Required

Birth, marriage, and death certificates from various registries

Latvia civil registry documents and international certificates

$100 - $400
Document Translations
Required

Certified translations of non-Latvian documents

All foreign documents must be translated by certified translators

$150 - $500
Apostille Authentication
Required

Apostille stamps for international document authentication

Required for all foreign documents

$50 - $200
Latvian Language Test
Required

B1 level proficiency test

B1 level required for citizenship

$100 - $200
Legal Consultation
Optional

Immigration lawyer assistance with application

Recommended for complex cases

$500 - $2,000

Important Cost Considerations:

  • Latvia allows up to 2 generations for citizenship by descent
  • Processing times typically 3-6 months
  • Must demonstrate B1 level Latvian proficiency
  • Dual citizenship is allowed
  • All foreign documents need apostille and certified translation
  • Success rate approximately 72% for complete applications

💡 Money-Saving Tips:

  • Order documents yourself instead of using agencies (save $200-500)
  • Do translations through certified freelancers vs law firms (save $300-800)
  • Apply directly to consulates rather than through services (save $1000+)
  • Research your family tree yourself before hiring genealogists
Check Your Eligibility Now

Latvia Citizenship by Descent Requirements

You Qualify If:

  • You have a Latvia parent or grandparent
  • Your Latvia ancestor retained their citizenship
  • You can prove the family lineage with official documents
  • You can demonstrate B1 level Latvian proficiency
  • You have no serious criminal convictions

You Don't Qualify If:

  • Your Latvia ancestor formally renounced their citizenship
  • You cannot obtain the required official documentation
  • Your Latvia ancestor is more than 2 generations back
  • You have serious criminal convictions

Latvia Citizenship by Descent Process: Step-by-Step

1

Verify Latvia Ancestry

Confirm you have Latvia parent or grandparent who retained citizenship

Time: 2-4 weeks
Cost: €0
2 documents needed

💡 Tip: Latvia allows up to 2 generations for citizenship by descent

2

Collect Required Documents

Gather all birth, marriage, and death certificates proving Latvia lineage

Time: 2-6 months
Cost: €300
2 documents needed

💡 Tip: Documents must be apostilled and translated

3

Latvian Language Test

Take B1 Latvian language test

Time: 1-3 months
Cost: €150
1 documents needed

💡 Tip: B1 level required

4

Submit Citizenship Application

Apply at Latvia consulate or in Riga

Time: 1-2 weeks
Cost: €250
2 documents needed

💡 Tip: Can apply at consulate abroad or directly in country

5

Application Review and Processing

Latvia authorities review application and verify documents

Time: 3-6 months
Cost: €0
1 documents needed

💡 Tip: Processing times vary based on complexity and current demand

6

Receive Citizenship Certificate

Receive official Latvia nationality certificate

Time: 2-4 weeks
Cost: €0
1 documents needed

💡 Tip: Certificate proves citizenship and allows passport application

7

Apply for Latvia Passport

Use citizenship certificate to obtain passport

Time: 4-6 weeks
Cost: €100
3 documents needed

💡 Tip: Provides full EU travel and residence rights

Frequently Asked Questions

How far back can I trace Latvia ancestry for citizenship?

Latvia allows citizenship by descent for up to 2 generations: parents and grandparents.

Do I need to speak Latvian to get Latvia citizenship by descent?

Yes, you need to demonstrate A2 level Latvian proficiency. This requirement shows your connection to the Latvia community.

How much does Latvia citizenship by descent cost?

Total costs typically range from €300-900, including application fees, document costs, translations, and apostilles.

How long does the Latvia citizenship process take?

The process typically takes 3-6 months from application submission to citizenship approval. Processing times vary based on case complexity and current demand.

Can I keep my original citizenship when becoming Latvian?

Yes, Latvia allows dual citizenship, so you can keep your original nationality when obtaining Latvia citizenship.