Latvia Seasonal Work Visa 2026: Over 5,000 Slots Open – Easier Access for Indian Workers in Agriculture, Construction & Hospitality

Published: 2026-02-23T14:30+05:30 (IST) Xavio

Latvia seasonal work: Indian workers in agriculture.

Latvia is stepping up its seasonal labour recruitment drive in 2026, with the Seasonal Employment Visa quota rising to more than 5,000 positions — one of the largest allocations in the Baltic region. The increase targets urgent shortages in agriculture, horticulture, construction support, food processing, and summer hospitality, making Latvia one of the most open and straightforward short-term work destinations in the EU right now.

For applicants, this is a low-barrier, fast-track opportunity: no language test, no points system, quick processing (often 15–45 days), and guaranteed minimum wages with employer-provided accommodation in most cases.

2026 Latvia Seasonal Work Visa – At a Glance

• Total Quota: 5,000+ positions (up from ~3,800 in 2025)

• Visa Duration: 5–9 months (sector-dependent)

• Minimum Wage: €740–€900 net per month (higher in construction & skilled roles)

• Key Sectors:

  • Agriculture & horticulture (berry picking, greenhouse, dairy)

  • Construction labour & infrastructure support

  • Food processing & packaging plants

  • Summer tourism & hospitality (hotels, restaurants, campsites)

• Accommodation: Free or low-cost shared rooms (European-standard dorms) provided by nearly all employers

• Overtime: Paid at 150–200% rate; 20–25 days pro-rated annual leave

• Application Fee: €60–€100 (visa) + minor service charges

• Processing Time: 15–45 days (faster for complete files)

Employers must advertise locally for at least 10–14 days and prove they couldn't find suitable Latvian/EU workers — a formality that rarely blocks genuine hires.

Why Latvia Is Gaining Traction Among Foreign Workers

• Lower upfront costs — Agent fees and total expenses are significantly less than Canada, Australia, or even some Western EU seasonal schemes.

• No IELTS or language requirement — Basic communication is enough; many teams have translators or Hindi/Punjabi-speaking coordinators.

• Real take-home savings — Workers often remit $1500-3000 per season after living costs.

• EU work experience — A legal first step into Europe, strengthening future Schengen visa or residence applications.

• Work-Life Balance: Flexible hours with a better structure than many Gulf positions.

The program is especially popular with young men from Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and increasingly Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

How to Apply – Step-by-Step

1. Find a licensed Latvian employer or accredited recruitment agency

2. Your employer provides the official job contract and secures your work permit approval.

3. Apply for D-type seasonal visa at the nearest Latvian embassy/consulate or VFS Global centre

4. Submit passport, contract, medical certificate, police clearance, and photos

5. Travel to Latvia, register address within 30 days, and start work

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is eligible for Latvia’s seasonal work visa?

Anyone 18+ from eligible countries (India included) with a confirmed job offer from a registered employer.

Q: Is accommodation always free?

Almost always — most employers provide it free or deduct only €50–100/month max.

Q: Do I need English or Latvian?

No formal test — basic understanding is sufficient; many roles use simple instructions or translators.

Q: Can I bring family?

No — this is a single-worker seasonal visa.

Q: Where to find genuine employers?

Through Latvia’s State Employment Agency (NVA) list or trusted migration consultants — avoid anyone demanding large upfront fees.

For the official seasonal work visa rules, current quota, employer list, and application forms for 2026, visit the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA) seasonal work visa page.

Explore more Latvia visa news, job quotas, wage details, and application guides in our country categories.

Check our dedicated Latvia immigration section for real-time updates and practical advice. Latvia’s fields and hotels are waiting — your seasonal adventure starts here!