Latvia citizenship by descent allows individuals with Latvian heritage to reclaim citizenship through ancestral ties, connecting you to one of the Baltic region's most progressive nations. 

This remarkable program lets you reconnect with your Latvian roots while gaining one of Europe's most valuable passports and full European Union citizenship rights. 

Whether your Latvian ancestor emigrated during the Soviet occupation or earlier, you may be eligible to restore your birthright and pass it on to future generations.

What Does "Latvia Citizenship by Descent" Mean?

Latvia citizenship by descent (also called citizenship restoration or citizenship by ancestry) refers to the legal process that allows individuals with Latvian heritage to obtain Latvian citizenship based on their ancestral connections. 

This pathway reflects Latvia's recognition of its global diaspora and addresses historical injustices that forced many citizens to flee during the tumultuous 20th century.

Latvian nationality law operates on the jus sanguinis principle (right of blood), whereby persons who can prove descent from Latvian citizens may claim Latvian citizenship. The law recognizes both bloodline descent and exile-based descent, particularly for families displaced by war, persecution, or occupation.

Latvia allows dual citizenship under certain circumstances since October 1, 2013, meaning you may be able to hold your Latvian citizenship alongside other nationalities depending on when your ancestor left Latvia and where they settled.

As a Latvian citizen, you gain all the rights and privileges of EU citizenship, including:

  • The right to live, work, and study anywhere in the 27 European Union member states
  • Access to a powerful passport with visa-free travel to 182 destinations with 84% global reach
  • Full healthcare and education benefits across Europe
  • The ability to pass citizenship to your children and future generations

Historical Background and Context

Latvia's history of emigration is deeply tied to political upheaval, occupation, and persecution throughout the 20th century. Understanding this context is essential for grasping Latvia's citizenship by descent program.

Key historical periods affecting Latvian citizenship:

First Independence (1918-1940): Latvia declared independence on November 18, 1918, after centuries of foreign rule. The Republic of Latvia existed as an independent nation from 1918 until June 17, 1940, when it was occupied by the Soviet Union. During this period, Latvia established its modern citizenship framework with its first nationality law adopted in August 1919.

Soviet Occupation (1940-1990): On June 17, 1940, the Soviet Union occupied Latvia, beginning 50 years of Soviet rule (interrupted briefly by Nazi occupation from 1941-1944). In September 1940, the Supreme Soviet adopted a decree on receiving USSR citizenship by citizens of the Latvian SSR. During this period, hundreds of thousands of Latvians were:

  • Forcibly deported to Siberia and other Soviet territories
  • Fled as refugees to escape persecution
  • Emigrated to seek freedom in Western countries

Restoration of Independence (1990-Present): Latvia restored independence in 1990, becoming one of the first Soviet republics to break away. In October 1991, the Supreme Council adopted a resolution declaring the 1940 Soviet decree null and void regarding Republic of Latvia citizens. Since then, Latvia has maintained special provisions for descendants of those who left during the occupation period.

Major Latvian emigration destinations:

  • United States: One of the largest Latvian diaspora communities, with significant populations in major cities
  • Canada: Substantial Latvian communities, particularly in Toronto and other urban centers
  • Australia: Post-WWII Latvian immigration created strong communities
  • United Kingdom: Growing Latvian community, especially after EU accession in 2004
  • Germany: Historical and contemporary Latvian populations
  • Sweden: Significant refugee population from WWII era

This massive diaspora created Latvian communities worldwide. Latvia's citizenship restoration program specifically targets descendants of this diaspora, particularly those whose ancestors were forced to leave or fled persecution.

Latvia's citizenship law is governed by the Citizenship Law of 1994 (significantly amended in 2013), which outlines pathways to citizenship including restoration based on ancestry. The law establishes that persons who held citizenship before June 17, 1940, and their descendants, may restore Latvian citizenship.

Critical date: June 17, 1940 - This date marks the Soviet occupation and is the key cutoff for proving ancestral citizenship. Your ancestor must have been a Latvian citizen on or before this date.

Critical date: October 1, 2013 - Amendments to the Citizenship Law took effect, allowing dual citizenship under specific circumstances for those restoring citizenship by descent.

Who Qualifies for Latvian Citizenship by Descent?

Latvian citizenship restoration is available to descendants of Latvian citizens who held citizenship before the Soviet occupation. The eligibility criteria are relatively broad but require specific documentation.

You may be eligible to restore Latvian citizenship if:

  1. At least one of your parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents was a Latvian citizen on or before June 17, 1940
  2. Your ancestor left Latvia (withdrew or was exiled) during the period 1940-1990
  3. You were never a Latvian citizen before (to avoid duplicating citizenship)

Generational reach: Latvia allows restoration through multiple generations - parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, and some sources indicate no strict generational limit as long as you can prove the ancestral connection to a pre-1940 citizen.

Conditions for Eligibility

The 1940 Citizenship Requirement

Your qualifying ancestor must have been a citizen of Latvia on or before June 17, 1940 - the date of Soviet occupation. This is the foundational requirement for all restoration claims.

Ways to qualify:

  • Your ancestor was a Latvian citizen on June 17, 1940 (regardless of when they left Latvia)
  • At least one of your parents was a Latvian citizen at the time of your birth (regardless of birthplace)
  • Your ancestor belonged to the Latvian or Liv ethnic groups

Important: If your ancestor left Latvia before 1918 (when Latvia declared independence), you generally are not eligible, as Latvia did not exist as an independent state before this date.

The Withdrawal/Exile Requirement

Your ancestor must have left Latvia or been exiled during a specific period. The law recognizes two main categories:

Category 1: Descendants of Latvian Citizens

  • Ancestor was a Latvian citizen on June 17, 1940
  • Ancestor left Latvia (withdrew or was exiled) between 1940 and 1990
  • Requires proof of citizenship and departure

Category 2: Persons of Latvian or Liv Ethnic Origin

  • Ancestor belonged to Latvian or Liv ethnic groups
  • Ancestor's predecessors lived in the territory of Latvia in 1881 or later
  • Even without formal citizenship documentation, ethnic connection may qualify you

Understanding Dual Citizenship Rules

Since October 1, 2013, Latvia's dual citizenship laws have become significantly more permissive. Under the amended Citizenship Law, you can retain dual citizenship if you meet certain criteria:

You CAN hold dual citizenship if:

  1. You acquire citizenship of Latvia AND citizenship of an EU member state, EEA country, NATO country, Australia, Brazil, or New Zealand
  2. You are of Latvian or Liv ethnic origin (your predecessors lived in Latvia territory in 1881 or later)
  3. You are a Latvian exile or descendant of someone who left Latvia during the 1940-1990 occupation period
  4. You were born with dual citizenship (acquired both at birth)

Countries that allow dual citizenship with Latvia (partial list):

  • All EU countries (27 nations)
  • All NATO countries (including United States, Canada, United Kingdom)
  • Australia
  • Brazil
  • New Zealand

You may need to renounce other citizenship if:

  • Your current citizenship is from a country NOT on the approved dual citizenship list
  • You are not of Latvian/Liv ethnic origin
  • You don't meet the exile/descent criteria

Important note: Latvia's dual citizenship provisions are among the most generous in the Baltic region for those claiming citizenship by descent, especially for descendants of those who left during the Soviet occupation.

Ethnic Latvian or Liv Origin

A unique pathway exists for those of Latvian or Liv ethnic origin, even without documented citizenship proof:

Eligibility:

  • You (or at least one parent or grandparent) belong to the Latvian or Liv ethnic groups
  • Your ancestor's predecessors lived in the territory of Latvia in 1881 or later
  • You can demonstrate ethnic connection through cultural, linguistic, or documentary evidence

This provides flexibility for applicants who cannot locate formal citizenship documents but can prove ethnic Latvian heritage.

No Generational Limit (With Conditions)

Unlike some European citizenship by descent programs, Latvia does not impose a strict three-generation limit. You may be eligible through:

  • Children of Latvian citizens
  • Grandchildren of Latvian citizens
  • Great-grandchildren of Latvian citizens
  • More distant descendants if you can prove the unbroken lineage to a pre-1940 citizen

The key is proving that your ancestor held Latvian citizenship on or before June 17, 1940, and that they left Latvia during the 1940-1990 period.

Required Documents

Restoring Latvian citizenship requires documentation proving both your identity and your lineage to a Latvian citizen ancestor. The complexity varies depending on whether you have existing Latvian documents or need archive research.

Your Personal Documents

Core identity documents:

  • Current valid passport
  • Your original birth certificate (showing both parents)
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable and name changed)
  • Proof of current address

Proving Your Ancestor's Latvian Citizenship

The most critical requirement is proving your ancestor was a Latvian citizen on or before June 17, 1940. Acceptable evidence includes:

Primary documents (strongest proof):

  • Latvian passport issued before or on June 17, 1940
  • Latvian birth certificate issued before 1940
  • Documents attesting military service in the Latvian Army
  • 1935 census records showing Latvian citizenship
  • Latvian school, work, or residence documents issued before June 17, 1940

Secondary documents (when primary unavailable):

  • Passport of a foreign state showing Latvian nationality/birthplace
  • Naturalization documents from another country stating previous Latvian citizenship
  • Refugee camp documents
  • Deportation or exile records
  • Immigration records showing departure from Latvia

What if you don't have these documents?

This is very common - most applicants do not have documents proving their ancestor was a Latvian citizen. Professional services specializing in Latvian citizenship can research Latvian archives to find proof of citizenship, including:

  • Latvian State Historical Archives
  • Birth, marriage, and death registers
  • Military service records
  • Census records
  • School and employment documents

Proving Your Lineage

You need to establish the connection between you and your Latvian ancestor:

Birth certificates for each generation:

  • Your birth certificate
  • Your parent's birth certificate
  • Your grandparent's birth certificate (if claiming through grandparent)
  • Your great-grandparent's birth certificate (if claiming through great-grandparent)

Marriage certificates:

  • For each marriage in your direct line
  • Essential if names changed through marriage
  • Helps establish the family connection

Evidence of withdrawal/exile from Latvia:

  • U.S., Canadian, or other country naturalization certificates
  • Documents from refugee or displaced persons camps
  • Old passports showing departure or entry stamps
  • Immigration records
  • Affidavits or declarations

Proving Ethnic Origin (Alternative Pathway)

If you cannot find citizenship documents but can prove Latvian or Liv ethnic origin:

Supporting documents:

  • Church baptism records declaring Lithuanian ethnicity
  • Community records
  • Cultural organization membership
  • Language documentation
  • Family history documentation

Document Authentication

All foreign documents must be properly authenticated for use in Latvia:

Apostille Requirements:

  • All foreign documents (except passports) must be validated by Apostille or legalized
  • Documents from Hague Convention countries need an Apostille
  • In the U.S., contact the Office of the Secretary of State for apostilles

Translation Requirements:

  • All foreign documents must be officially translated into Latvian
  • Translations must be completed by certified/sworn translators
  • Both original apostilled documents and certified translations must be submitted

Where to get Apostilles:

United States:

  • State documents: Secretary of State of the issuing state
  • Processing: Varies by state (typically 1-3 weeks)
  • Cost: Typically $5-30 per document

United Kingdom:

  • Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
  • Processing: 3-4 weeks
  • Cost: £30 per document

Canada:

  • Global Affairs Canada
  • Processing: 10-20 business days
  • Cost: CAD $50 per document

Australia:

  • Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
  • Processing: 10-15 business days
  • Cost: AUD $80 per document

Latvian Archive Research

Many documents must be obtained from Latvian archives:

Latvian State Historical Archives:

  • Birth, marriage, and death records from before 1940
  • Citizenship documentation
  • Military service records

Other Latvian institutions:

  • Civil registry offices
  • Military archives
  • Census archives

Professional genealogists and lawyers can navigate these archives, read documents in historical languages (Latvian, German, Russian, Polish), and locate the necessary proof of citizenship.

The Application Process

Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility

Before beginning, verify you likely qualify:

Key questions:

  • Do you have a parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent who was from Latvia?
  • Was your ancestor a Latvian citizen on or before June 17, 1940?
  • Did your ancestor leave Latvia between 1940 and 1990?
  • Can you prove your lineage through birth and marriage certificates?

If you answer "yes" to these questions, you likely qualify.

Step 2: Gather Information About Your Ancestor

Collect whatever information you have about your Latvian ancestor:

Helpful details:

  • Full name (in your country and in Latvia if known)
  • Date and place of birth
  • Place of residence in Latvia
  • Information about their parents and siblings
  • When and why they left Latvia
  • Where they settled after leaving

Don't worry if you don't have complete information. Professional services can help locate missing details through archival research.

Step 3: Conduct Latvian Archive Research

If you don't have documents proving Latvian citizenship:

This is the most complex and important step. Options include:

Option A: Professional services Specialized lawyers and genealogists can:

  • Search Latvian State Historical Archives
  • Request vital records (birth, marriage, death certificates)
  • Find citizenship documents
  • Locate military service or census records
  • Read documents in Latvian, German, Russian, Polish
  • Prepare all necessary paperwork

Option B: DIY approach Contact Latvian archives directly:

  • Latvian State Historical Archives
  • Civil registry offices in Latvia
  • Request specific documents based on your ancestor's information
  • Be prepared for language barriers and lengthy response times

Step 4: Obtain Foreign Documents

Gather documents from your country:

  • Birth certificates for each generation in your family line
  • Marriage certificates showing family connections
  • Naturalization documents or immigration records (showing departure from Latvia)
  • Death certificates (if applicable)

Step 5: Authenticate and Translate

Get apostilles:

  • Submit all foreign documents for apostille certification in your country
  • Keep originals, apostilled copies, and regular copies organized

Translate to Latvian:

  • Have all documents officially translated into Latvian by certified/sworn translators
  • Ensure translations are complete and accurate
  • Translator must be recognized by Latvian authorities

Step 6: Submit Application to OCMA

Applications are submitted to the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA) in Latvia.

Application options:

Option 1: Through Latvian embassy/consulate abroad

  • Schedule appointment at nearest Latvian diplomatic mission
  • Bring all original documents, apostilles, and translations
  • Submit application in person
  • Documents are forwarded to OCMA in Riga

Option 2: Directly to OCMA in Riga

  • If you're in Latvia or have legal representation in Latvia
  • Submit application directly to OCMA office
  • Lawyer can submit on your behalf

Application contents:

  • Completed application form (in Latvian)
  • All supporting documents
  • Proof of identity
  • Proof of ancestral citizenship
  • Proof of lineage
  • Proof of withdrawal/exile
  • Translations and apostilles

Step 7: Wait for Decision

Processing timeline:

  • Typical timeline: 4-12 months from complete application submission
  • Complex cases requiring additional research may take longer
  • Straightforward cases with complete documentation may be faster

During processing:

  • OCMA reviews all documents
  • May verify information with Latvian archives
  • May request additional documentation or clarification
  • May require interviews or additional proof

Communication:

  • Updates typically provided through your lawyer/representative
  • OCMA may contact you directly if you applied independently

Step 8: Receive Citizenship Decision

Once approved:

  1. Decision on citizenship is issued by OCMA
  2. You are officially a Latvian citizen with all associated rights
  3. Apply for Latvian passport and ID card at OCMA or embassy
  4. Register with embassy if living abroad
  5. Full EU citizenship rights begin immediately

Passport application:

  • Apply at OCMA or Latvian embassy
  • Provide photos and biometric data
  • Processing: 1-2 months typically
  • Latvian passport valid for 10 years

Timeline and Costs

Realistic Timeline Breakdown

Total timeline: 12-18 months typical (6-24 months range)

Phase 1: Preparation and Research (2-4 months)

  • Eligibility assessment: 1-2 weeks
  • Latvian archive research: 2-3 months
  • Foreign document gathering: 1-2 months
  • Document authentication and translation: 3-6 weeks

Phase 2: Application Submission (2-4 weeks)

  • Application preparation: 1-2 weeks
  • Embassy appointment scheduling: 1-2 weeks
  • Document submission: 1 day

Phase 3: Government Processing (4-12 months)

  • OCMA review and processing: 4-12 months official timeline
  • Complex cases may take longer
  • Straightforward cases may be faster

Phase 4: Passport Application (1-2 months)

  • After citizenship approval: 1-2 months for passport

Cost Breakdown

DIY Route (if attempting independently):

  • Latvian archival research: €500-2,000
  • Latvian document fees: €100-300
  • Foreign vital records: $200-600
  • Apostilles: $200-500
  • Official Latvian translations: €400-1,000
  • Legal consultation (if needed): €1,000-3,000
  • Application fees: Minimal
  • Passport: Approximately €60-100
  • Total: €2,500-7,500+ (plus enormous time investment and language barriers)

With Professional Legal Services:

  • Full-service legal representation: €3,000-8,000
  • Archive research: €1,000-3,000
  • Document procurement: €500-1,500
  • Translations and apostilles: €500-1,000
  • Application management: Included
  • OCMA representation: Included
  • Total: €5,000-15,000 depending on case complexity

Money-back guarantees: Some professional services offer partial refunds if application is rejected (usually for standard cases only).

9 Benefits of Latvian Citizenship

1. European Union Citizenship

Latvian citizenship automatically grants you European Union citizenship, providing:

  • Freedom of movement to live, work, and study in any of the 27 EU member states without visas or permits.
  • Countries included: Germany, France, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Austria, Belgium, Poland, Lithuania, Estonia, and 13 others.
  • No sponsorship needed: Accept any job in any EU country without employer sponsorship or work permits.
  • Business freedom: Start a business anywhere in the EU with full access to the European single market of 450+ million consumers.

2. Strong European Passport

The Latvian passport allows visa-free travel to 182 destinations with 84% global reach.

Visa-free access includes:

  • All EU countries (27)
  • United States (ESTA, 90 days)
  • Canada (eTA, 6 months)
  • United Kingdom (6 months)
  • Japan (90 days)
  • Australia (eTA, 90 days)
  • Most of South America
  • Most of Asia

The Latvian passport consistently ranks in the top 20 most powerful passports globally.

3. Thriving Baltic Economy

Latvia offers strong economic benefits:

  • Dynamic economy: One of the most business-friendly environments in the EU
  • Tech hub: Riga is becoming a major European startup and fintech center
  • Strategic location: Gateway between Eastern and Western Europe, with excellent transport links
  • Low cost of living: Significantly more affordable than Western Europe while maintaining high quality of life
  • Competitive tax rates: 20% flat income tax, attractive for entrepreneurs

4. Education Benefits

As an EU citizen with Latvian citizenship:

  • Low-cost European education: Pay local tuition rates throughout the EU
  • Quality Latvian universities: Riga Technical University, University of Latvia, and other respected institutions
  • EU-wide access: Study anywhere in the EU at domestic student rates (often free or minimal fees)
  • No international student quotas: Apply as a local student

EU tuition examples:

  • Latvia: €1,500-4,000/year for EU citizens
  • Germany: Often free for undergraduate programs
  • France: €170-600/year at public universities
  • Scandinavia: Free in several countries

5. Healthcare Access

  • Latvian National Health System: As a resident of Latvia, access to universal healthcare coverage with modern facilities.
  • European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): When traveling in the EU, receive necessary healthcare at local prices.
  • Modern healthcare infrastructure: Improving medical facilities, well-trained medical professionals, and specialized treatment centers.
  • Medical tourism destination: Latvia is known for high-quality, affordable dental care and other medical treatments.

6. Cultural Connection and Heritage

Reconnect with your roots:

  • Meaningful connection to Latvian culture, language, and traditions
  • Ability to live in ancestral homeland
  • Access to Latvian cultural institutions and national celebrations
  • Voting rights in Latvian and EU elections (if resident)

Rich cultural heritage:

  • Historic Riga Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning Art Nouveau architecture)
  • Beautiful Baltic coastline and nature reserves
  • Vibrant cultural scene with festivals, music, and arts
  • Song and Dance Festival (UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage)

7. Property and Investment Opportunities

  • Buy property in Latvia or any EU country without foreign restrictions
  • Access to affordable real estate in Riga and coastal areas
  • EU business opportunities and funding programs
  • Growing rental market with strong yields (Riga averages 7-8% rental yields)

8. Dual Citizenship Permitted (In Most Cases)

Latvia allows dual citizenship under specific circumstances since October 2013. If your ancestor left Latvia during 1940-1990 and you're a citizen of an EU, EEA, NATO country, Australia, Brazil, or New Zealand, you can generally hold both Latvian citizenship and your current nationality.

Compatible with:

  • All EU countries (27 nations)
  • All NATO countries (United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and 28 others)
  • Australia
  • Brazil
  • New Zealand

Additional allowance: Persons of Latvian or Liv ethnic origin can retain dual citizenship with ANY country.

9. Passing Citizenship to Your Children

Automatic transmission: Any children you have are automatically entitled to Latvian citizenship if you are a Latvian citizen at the time of their birth, regardless of where they're born.

Children born in Latvia: Automatically receive Latvian citizenship if at least one parent is Latvian.

No generation limit: Your children can pass Latvian citizenship to their children, continuing the legacy indefinitely as long as citizenship is retained and transmitted.

Family continuity: Restoring your citizenship now ensures future generations maintain this valuable EU citizenship.

Citizenship by Descent Programs

While Latvia citizenship by descent is not currently offered as a service by CitizenX, many people with European heritage may qualify through multiple ancestral lines. CitizenX offers comprehensive citizenship by descent services for several European countries with generous ancestry programs.

CitizenX Citizenship by Descent Services

CitizenX specializes in helping individuals reclaim their European heritage through citizenship by descent programs. Our expert team navigates complex legal requirements, conducts genealogical research, and manages the entire application process from eligibility assessment to passport receipt.

Countries where CitizenX offers full citizenship by descent services:

Italy Citizenship by Descent - $25,000

  • No generational limit
  • Can claim through great-grandparents and beyond
  • 100% online process
  • Approximately 6 months to passport after recognition

Ireland Citizenship by Descent - $15,000

  • Claim through Irish-born parent or grandparent
  • Includes Foreign Births Register assistance
  • 100% online process
  • Approximately 9 months to passport

Poland Citizenship by Descent - $25,000

  • Can claim through multiple generations
  • Complex documentation from Polish archives
  • 100% online process
  • Approximately 8 months to passport

Lithuania Citizenship by Descent - $15,000

  • Claim through parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents
  • Lithuanian archive research included
  • Approximately 6 months to passport after approval

Each program includes complete eligibility assessment, comprehensive document research and retrieval, apostille and translation coordination, legal representation, application management, and dedicated 24/7 concierge support until passport receipt.

Explore CitizenX citizenship by descent programs to discover if you qualify for European citizenship through your ancestry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply through any Latvian ancestor?

Yes, if they were citizens of Latvia on or before June 17, 1940 and left Latvia between 1940-1990. You can claim through parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, and potentially more distant ancestors.

What if I don't have documents proving my ancestor was Latvian?

This is common - most applicants don't have original documents. Professional genealogists and lawyers can research Latvian archives to find proof of citizenship, military service, or census records.

Do I need to speak Latvian?

No. There is no language requirement for citizenship restoration by descent (though language requirements exist if applying as a "Latvian exile").

Do I need to live in Latvia?

No. The entire process can be completed from abroad through Latvian embassies. You don't need to relocate to Latvia to restore citizenship.

Can I hold dual citizenship?

Yes, in most cases. Since 2013, Latvia allows dual citizenship for those restoring citizenship by descent, especially if you're a citizen of EU/EEA/NATO countries, Australia, Brazil, or New Zealand. Ethnic Latvians can hold dual citizenship with any country.

Can my spouse also become Latvian?

Your spouse cannot claim citizenship through your Latvian ancestry. They would need their own Latvian ancestors or pursue standard naturalization after living in Latvia for 10 years.

What if my ancestor was Jewish and left Latvia?

Yes, Jewish descendants of Latvian citizens who were displaced during the Holocaust or Soviet occupation qualify for citizenship by descent. Latvia recognizes that many Jewish citizens lost nationality involuntarily.

How long will the process take?

Typically 12-18 months total. Latvian archive research takes 2-4 months, then OCMA processing takes 4-12 months. Simple cases with complete documentation may be faster.

How much will this cost?

DIY approach costs €2,500-7,500+ with significant language barriers. Professional legal services typically cost €5,000-15,000 depending on case complexity and services needed.

What documents do I need to get started?

Initially just basic information about your Latvian ancestor (name, approximate dates, where they lived). Professional services will conduct archive research to find official documents proving citizenship.

Can I be denied?

Denials are rare with proper documentation. Common issues include inability to prove ancestor held citizenship before June 17, 1940, or inability to prove lineage. Professional assistance significantly increases success rates (99%+ for reputable firms).

What happens after approval?

Once approved, you're officially a Latvian (and EU) citizen. You can immediately apply for a Latvian passport and ID card (1-2 months processing), register with the embassy if abroad, and begin exercising all EU citizenship rights.

Do I need to pay Latvian taxes?

No, not automatically. Latvia taxes based on residence, not citizenship. You only owe Latvian taxes if you live there 183+ days per year or earn Latvian-source income.

Can my children get Latvian citizenship?

Yes. Children born to Latvian citizens automatically acquire Latvian citizenship at birth, regardless of where they're born. You can pass this valuable EU citizenship to future generations.

What's the success rate for applications?

With proper documentation and professional guidance, success rates exceed 99%. Most denials result from incomplete documentation or inability to prove the ancestral connection - issues that professional services help avoid.