How to Book a Latvia Visa Appointment?

If you’re planning a holiday to Latvia, the first step is booking your Latvia visa appointment. Without this appointment, your tourist visa application cannot proceed. It’s where you’ll submit your documents, give biometrics, and officially apply for your visa.

This guide will show you exactly how to book your Latvia visa appointment from India, online and offline. We will also cover the necessary documents, visa fees, processing times, and provide tips to make your application smooth and stress-free. 

How to Schedule a Latvia Visa Appointment?

Latvia is a part of the Schengen visa process, and VFS Global handles all short-stay tourist visa applications from India on behalf of the Latvian Embassy. Here’s how to book your Latvia visa appointment online and offline.

Online Steps

Visit the Official VFS Global Website

Go to https://visa.vfsglobal.com, select India as your country of residence, and choose Latvia as your destination. Click on “Apply for a Visa” to begin the process.

Identify Your Visa Type

Under the Latvia section, choose Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C) → Tourism. Review eligibility, required documents, visa fees, biometric requirements, and estimated processing time.

Download and Complete the Application Form

You can fill out the Schengen visa application form either online or manually in capital letters. Ensure all information is accurate and matches your passport and supporting documents.

Appointment and Submission

You do not need to book an appointment in advance. Indian applicants can directly visit the nearest VFS Global Visa Application Centre during working hours for walk-in submission.

What You Need to Do:

• Gather all required documents as per the tourist visa checklist
• Visit your preferred VFS center (e.g., Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad)
• Submit your documents, provide biometrics, and pay the applicable fees onsite
• Receive your receipt and reference number for tracking

Pay the Visa Fee

You can pay the applicable visa and service fee online via debit/credit card or choose to pay at the Visa Application Centre (if allowed).

Print Appointment Confirmation

After successfully booking your appointment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your appointment details. Print this confirmation and carry it with you on the day of your visit.

Attend the Appointment

On your appointment date, you will have to submit your documents, and biometric data (fingerprints and photo) will be taken during this visit. Do not forget to carry original and duplicates of all the following documents:

• Completed application form
• Passport 
• Printed appointment letter
• Other documents such as bank statements, itinerary, cover letter, no objection certificate, etc

Track Your Application

Use the reference number provided on your receipt to track your visa application online via the VFS Global website. You can also opt for SMS/email updates.

Offline Steps

Applicants do not need a prior appointment to visit Latvia Visa Application Centres (VACs). Tourist visa applications for Latvia are accepted on a walk-in basis at authorized VFS Global centers across India. Simply visit your nearest VAC during working hours with all required documents and applicable fees. 

For any location-specific queries or in rare emergency cases, you may also contact the Embassy of Latvia in New Delhi or your regional VAC directly. Always verify operating hours before visiting.

Location for Latvia Visa Appointment in India

Suppose you’re applying for a Latvia tourist visa from India. In that case, all appointments and submissions are routed through VFS Global under the jurisdiction of the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia in New Delhi.

Embassy of the Republic of Latvia in India

• Address: B8, Anand Niketan, South West Delhi, 110021, India
• Phone: +91 11 49859100
• Fax: +91 11 43600600
• Email:[email protected] 
• Website:www.mfa.gov.lv/en/india
• Working Days: Monday to Friday
• Working Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Kolkata

• Address: VFS Global Services Pvt. Ltd., Rene Tower, Building No. 1842, Rajdanga Main Road, Rajdanga, Near Geetanjali Stadium, Kolkata – 700107
• Business Hours: Monday to Friday | 09:00 AM – 02:00 PM
• Passport Collection: Monday to Friday | 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM

Mumbai

• Address: Urmi Axis Building, 2nd Floor, Behind Famous Studio, Opp. E Moses Road, Mahalaxmi (West), Mumbai – 400011
• Business Hours: Monday to Friday | 10:00 AM – 02:00 PM
• Submission & Passport Collection: Monday & Friday | 10:00 AM – 02:00 PM

Note: Latvia does not operate multiple consulates across India. All Latvia visa applications are processed under the jurisdiction of the New Delhi Embassy via VFS centres in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad.

Must Read: Latvia Visa for Indians Explained in 10 Mins!

What is the Purpose of a Latvia Visa Appointment?

The Latvia visa appointment is a mandatory step in the tourist visa application process. It ensures that your application is complete, verified, and ready for formal review by Latvian authorities.

Purpose	Details
Document Submission	During the appointment, you must submit all required documents, including your completed visa form, valid passport, travel itinerary, accommodation proof, travel insurance, and financial documents.
Biometrics Collection	Your fingerprints and photograph will be taken and stored in the Schengen Visa Information System (VIS) for identity verification across all Schengen countries.
Personal Interview	A consular officer may ask questions about your travel plans, financial stability, accommodation, and your intention to return to India after your trip.
Application Processing	Once documents are submitted, the visa application center forwards them to the Latvian embassy or consulate for decision-making.
Ensuring Compliance	The appointment ensures your application is reviewed in a controlled setting, helping authorities verify your eligibility under Schengen rules for tourism.

Must Read: How to Check Latvia Visa Status Online?

Documents Required for the Latvia Visa Appointment

To schedule a Latvia visa appointment for tourism purposes, ensure you have the following documents ready for submission:

• Completed Visa Application Form: Fill out and sign the official Latvia Schengen visa application form. You can download it from the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or complete it through the VFS Global Latvia portal.
• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure from the Schengen Area. It should also have at least two blank pages and must not be older than 10 years.
• Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos (35mm x 45mm), taken within the last six months. They must have a white background and meet Schengen photo requirements.
• Proof of Accommodation: Submit confirmed hotel reservations, Airbnb bookings, or a letter of invitation from a host in Latvia with their address and contact details.
• Travel Insurance: Provide a Schengen-compliant travel insurance certificate with coverage of at least €30,000 for emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation. The insurance must be valid throughout the entire Schengen area and for your entire trip duration.
• Proof of Financial Means: You must show that you can financially support yourself during your trip. Acceptable documents include:
• Recent bank statements (last 3 months)
• Salary slips
• Income tax returns (ITRs)
• A sponsorship letter if someone else is funding your trip
• Flight Reservations: Submit a copy of your round-trip flight booking or travel itinerary clearly showing entry and exit dates from the Schengen zone.
• Cover Letter: A signed letter explaining the purpose of your visit, travel itinerary, intended duration of stay, and any additional relevant details.
• Additional Supporting Documents (If Applicable):
• Invitation letter (if visiting a friend or relative in Latvia)
• Proof of Employment: A letter from your employer or leave approval
• Student Proof: Valid ID and enrollment letter, if you’re a student
• Proof of previous Schengen visas (if any)
• Photocopies: Carry at least one set of photocopies of all original documents, including your passport’s bio page and previous visas.
• Biometric Data: First-time Schengen applicants must provide fingerprints and a digital photo at the visa center.
• Visa Fee Receipt: Bring a printout of your payment confirmation or be ready to pay the visa fee at the center.

Suggested Read: Schengen Visa for Indians: Application Process, Requirements & Fees 

Photograph Requirements fora Tourist Visa for Latvia

Size:

• The photograph must be 35mm wide and 45mm high.
• The head should be centered and occupy 70–80% of the frame.

Background:

• A plain, light-colored background is required (white or off-white preferred).
• No shadows, textures, or objects should appear behind you.

Expression:

• A neutral facial expression is mandatory.
• Mouth must be closed, and eyes must be open and clearly visible.
• Smiling, showing teeth, or raised eyebrows is not permitted.

Head Position & Covering:

• Face must be directly facing the camera, not tilted or turned.
• Head coverings are allowed only for religious reasons, but facial features must be fully visible.

Glasses:

• Only clear, non-tinted prescription glasses are permitted.
• Glasses must not obscure the eyes or reflect light.

Photo Quality:

• Must be recent—taken within the last six months.
• Must be printed on high-quality photographic paper.
• The image must be sharp, clear, and in focus with natural skin tones.

Attachment to Application:

• Do not staple. Use a paperclip to attach the photograph to your visa application form.

Latvia Visa Fees for Indians

Fee Category	Visa Fee (INR)
Tourist Visa – Adult	INR 8,120
Tourist Visa – Child (6–12 yrs)	INR 4,060
Tourist Visa – Child (<6 yrs)	FREE
OneVasco Service Fee	INR 2,434

Note: Fees are inclusive of GST (SGST 9% + CGST 9%). Charges are non-refundable, even in case of visa rejection. Payment is typically accepted via credit/debit card only—cash is not allowed. Courier charges apply to applications submitted in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. 

Fee exemptions may apply for EU/EEA family members with valid proof. All amounts are subject to change based on embassy policies and exchange rate fluctuations.

How Much is the Waiting Time for a Latvia Visa Appointment?

The average waiting time for a Latvia tourist visa appointment depends on several factors such as location, time of year, and demand. While appointments are generally available within 1 to 2 weeks, the wait time can increase during peak seasons or in high-demand cities. Planning ahead is essential to avoid last-minute delays.

Factor	Details
Peak Seasons	Waiting times increase during summer holidays (May–August) and winter breaks (November–December).
Type of Visa	Tourist visas may see higher delays during vacation periods and public holidays.
Location	Centres like Delhi and Mumbai may have longer queues. Tier-2 cities may have fewer available slots.
General Estimate	Average appointment wait time is 1–2 weeks. During peak demand, it may extend to 3–4 weeks or more.
Recommendation	Book your appointment at least 3–4 weeks in advance, especially during busy travel seasons.

Note: These timelines apply only to short-term tourist visas and may vary based on embassy workload and verification requirements.

Suggested Read: How to Book Schengen Visa Appointment | A Visa Guide 

Tips for a Successful Latvia Visa Interview

• Be Prepared: Explain your itinerary, including entry and exit dates, accommodations, and sightseeing or personal plans. Carry all required supporting documents, including bookings, insurance, and financial proofs, neatly organized.
• Be Honest: Answer every question truthfully and stay consistent with what you submitted in your visa application. Clearly explain the purpose of your visit—tourism—and how you plan to fund your trip. Avoid vague or scripted answers.
• Dress Appropriately: Appear well-groomed and wear formal or semi-formal clothing to show respect for the process. Avoid casual wear like t-shirts, flip-flops, or flashy outfits. A neat presentation leaves a strong first impression.
• Be Punctual: Arrive at the Latvia visa application centre at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. It shows discipline and gives you time to compose yourself before the interview.
• Practice Common Questions: Prepare for basic questions like “Why do you want to visit Latvia?”, “Who will accompany you?”, “Where will you stay?”, or “How much do you plan to spend?” Answer with confidence and clarity, aligning your response with your documents.
• Stay Calm: The interview may include detailed or follow-up questions. Stay composed, take a moment before replying, and don’t rush your answers. Remaining calm reflects confidence and credibility.
• Demonstrate Strong Ties to India: Explain why you will return to India after your Latvia trip. Mention your job, family, property, or any ongoing responsibilities. This assures the officer that you have no intention of overstaying.
• Be Organized: Carry all your documents in a clear folder, sorted by category. This helps you respond quickly when the officer asks for a specific document and reflects your preparedness.
• Maintain Eye Contact and Politeness: Make eye contact, smile when appropriate, and respond respectfully. Even if questions seem repetitive, show patience and avoid frustration in your tone or body language.
• Know Your Application Details: Make sure you know what you wrote in your application form. Any mismatch in details can raise red flags during the interview.

Suggested Read: Schengen Visa Rejection for Indians: Top 10 Causes

How to Track a Latvia Visa from India?

VFS Global offers a dedicated online tracking service for Latvia tourist visa applications:

• Visit the VFS Global Latvia tracking page and click on the “Track Your Application” tab. 
• Enter your reference number (from your payment receipt) and last name as submitted in your application. 
• Fill in the captcha code and click “Submit” to check the current status of your visa application.

Application Number:

When you book your Latvia visa appointment, you receive a unique reference number, printed on both your appointment confirmation and payment receipt. Keep this number safe—it’s required to track your visa status online and when contacting customer support.

Direct Inquiry:

If there’s no status update on the portal or delays beyond the usual processing time, you can contact the VFS Global Latvia Visa Application Center where you submitted your documents. Use the contact number(: +91 22 67866025) or email provided in your confirmation mail or check the official VFS contact page for location-specific details.

Note: You may also receive SMS or email notifications from VFS Global, depending on the service you selected during your application. These updates include passport dispatch, arrival at the center, or readiness for collection.

FAQs

Is it mandatory to visit the visa center personally? Can someone else apply on my behalf?

Yes, personal appearance is required for biometric data. A representative can only submit documents if your Schengen biometrics were collected in the past 59 months.

How early should I apply for a Latvia tourist visa?

Apply at least 4–6 weeks before travel. During peak times like summer or holidays, apply 2–3 months in advance for timely processing.

What is the waiting time for a Latvia visa appointment in India?

Appointment wait time is 1–2 weeks, but it may extend to 3–4 weeks in cities like Delhi or Mumbai during peak seasons.

What questions can I expect during the Latvia tourist visa interview?

Expect questions about your travel plans, finances, accommodations, and return intentions. Be honest and keep answers aligned with your documents.

Is there a dress code for the Latvia visa appointment?

There’s no official dress code, but wearing formal or semi-formal attire creates a respectful and professional impression.

What should I do to avoid cancellation of my Latvia visa appointment?

Submit complete documents, pay fees on time, arrive punctually, and ensure all information provided is accurate and honest.

Can I reschedule my Latvia visa appointment?

Yes, rescheduling is possible via the VFS Global portal. Do it at least 48–72 hours before your original slot to avoid issues.

How can I request an expedited visa appointment for Latvia?

Contact VFS or the Latvia embassy with proof of urgency like medical needs or academic deadlines. Approval is case-dependent.

Do children and infants need separate visa appointments?

Yes, each child or infant must have an individual application and appointment. Biometrics are not required for those under 12.

What happens if I’m late for my Latvia visa appointment?

Late arrivals are often denied entry. Arrive at least 15 minutes early or you may need to reschedule and start over.

How can I improve my chances of getting a Latvia visa appointment quickly?

To improve your chances, check the VFS portal frequently for new slots. The best way on how to book Latvia visa appointment faster is to visit during off-peak hours or apply through less crowded VFS centers like Kolkata or Chennai. 

Is a biometric appointment mandatory for Latvia tourist visas?

Yes, biometric data (fingerprints and photo) is required unless it was submitted for a Schengen visa in the last 59 months.