In order to travel to Latvia in the framework of an exchange programme, Turkish nationals are required to lodge an application for a long stay visa at the VFS Global Latvia visa application centers in Turkiye by contacting the call center at: +90 212 3735817. Decisions on the issuance of the visa are taken within two weeks of submission.
The requirements for a long stay visa are the following:
- Passport (time period between the date of its issue and date of visa application must not exceed 10 years and passport must be valid for at least 3 months as of the end date of the planned trip);
- Application form
- Proof of adequate travel medical insurance covering the entire period of the intended stay, which is valid for all Schengen States and covering any expenses that might arise in relation to urgent medical attention, emergency hospital treatment, accidental death or repatriation for medical reasons. The minimum coverage must be 42 600 EUR.
- One recently taken passport photo, size 4x5 cm on a plain, white background
- Invitation approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (click here for more information: http://www.pmlp.gov.lv/en/home/services/visas-and-invitations/letter-approved/) or an invitation letter that contains the following:
- the inviting party’s name and registration No.
- the invited party’s full name, surname, date of birth, place of birth, Passport No.;
- the purpose of travel
- the planned time for the visit and the number of entries
- the address of the invitee’s place of residence during his/her visit
- The signatories name, surname and position
- Flight / travel reservations or other proof of intended transport
- Proof of accommodation for the intended period of stay
- Proof of sufficient financial means in the form of a letter from the home university stating that the student has been granted a scholarship. The minimum monthly amount for stay in Latvia for students is 500 EUR. If the university’s sponsorship letter states a smaller amount, additional proof is required indicating the availability of the missing amount for the entire period of stay in Latvia.
- If the applicant is employed as a teacher or professor:
- letter from employer and/or approval for leave.
- social security registration document.
- If the applicant is a student:
- Student certificate (Öğrenci Belgesi).
- If the applicant is a minor/under age 18 and travelling alone or with one parent or legal guardian only:
- statement from his/her parents approved by a notary public ( this condition shall not apply if the parent travelling is a single parent or holds sole parental authority)