Latvian citizenship through naturalisation
Latvian citizenship through naturalisation is open to persons from age 15 who have lived permanently in Latvia for at least 5 years (counted from receiving a permanent residence permit), have legal means of subsistence and pass two tests: a Latvian language exam (listening, reading, writing, speaking) and a knowledge test on the Constitution's basic provisions, the national anthem, Latvian history and culture. The state fee is 28.46 EUR; several groups pay a reduced 4.27 EUR or are exempt. The process ends with a solemn pledge of loyalty to Latvia.
Who this applies to
Step by step
Check eligibility and prepare for the tests
Make sure you meet the requirements: 5 years of permanent residence, legal income, no disqualifying obstacles. The language exam corresponds roughly to level B1 — sample tasks and a study aid on history and the Constitution are on the PMLP website. State-funded Latvian courses are also available.
Submit the naturalisation application to PMLP
Submit the application with documents at any PMLP territorial office (from age 15 — in person). Attach a 3×4 cm photo and proof of the state fee: 28.46 EUR, reduced 4.27 EUR (e.g. pensioners, unemployed, low-income persons, schoolchildren), while politically repressed persons, group I disability and orphans are exempt.
Pass the language and knowledge tests
The tests take place within about 2 months of the application. The language exam assesses listening, reading, writing and speaking. The knowledge test (anthem / history and culture / Constitution) can also be taken online, each part scored separately — if one part fails, only that part is retaken after a month, not the whole test.
Await the decision and give the solemn pledge
PMLP reviews the case and requests opinions from state institutions; if there are no obstacles, the Cabinet of Ministers decides on admission to citizenship. Finally, at a solemn ceremony you give and sign the pledge of loyalty to the Republic of Latvia — after which you can get a Latvian citizen's passport.
Common mistakes
Frequently asked questions
How much does naturalisation cost?
The state fee is 28.46 EUR. The reduced 4.27 EUR fee applies e.g. to pensioners, the unemployed, low-income persons and schoolchildren; politically repressed persons, group I disability, orphans and residents of care institutions are exempt. The exams themselves carry no extra charge.
How good must my Latvian be?
The exam assesses all four skills — listening, reading, writing and speaking — at roughly B1 level. Sample tasks are on the PMLP website, and state-funded Latvian courses help you prepare. Exemptions from the language exam exist only in cases set by law (e.g. health reasons).
From when are the 5 residence years counted?
From the day the permanent residence permit was received (for non-citizens — permanent residence in Latvia). Long absences can interrupt the term, so total time spent outside Latvia during this period is limited.
Do children naturalise with their parents?
Yes, children under 15 can be included in a parent's application and do not take the tests. Newborns of non-citizens have citizenship registered right at birth registration if one parent wishes so.