Latvia’s history of occupation and diaspora means many families abroad are now reclaiming citizenship. Parents pursuing this path often ask whether their children can also qualify for Latvian citizenship by descent. In most cases, the answer is yes, but the process depends on when the parent applies and whether the ancestor was a Latvian citizen before 1940.
This guide explains how Latvian nationality law applies to children, what documents are required, what families should expect, and how the process works.
Why Citizenship for Children Matters
For children, Latvian citizenship is a foundation for their future, not just in Latvia, but also across all members of the EU. That can look like:
- EU mobility: They can live and work in 27 EU countries without a visa.
- Education: They qualify for EU tuition rates and scholarships, almost always more accessible and affordable.
- Healthcare: They gain access to Latvia’s public healthcare system and EU reciprocal care.
- Travel: Latvian passports provide visa-free access to 180+ countries.
- Cultural identity: Citizenship affirms their Latvian heritage and connects them to their family history.
How Latvian Citizenship Passes to Children
Latvia follows jus sanguinis, granting citizenship based on descent. That means citizenship relies on your family history rather than where you were born.
Children of Latvian Citizens
If a child is born to at least one Latvian parent, they are automatically Latvian, regardless of birthplace. The key requirement is that parents register the birth with the Latvian government.
When Parents Apply Later
If a parent is recognized as a Latvian citizen after their child’s birth, their minor children may also acquire Latvian citizenship through the parent’s application — but this is not automatic. The law allows children up to the age of 15 to be included in the process when a parent applies or is restored as a Latvian citizen, provided the required documents are submitted and parental consent is given. Once a child reaches 15 (and especially after 18), they may need to submit their own independent application for citizenship. It’s important to have a trusted guide during your application process.
It’s important to have a trusted guide during your application process — someone familiar with the Latvian Citizenship Law and how it applies to minors within an EU member state.
Learn more about the details at the Latvian Office of Migration and Citizenship.
Adopted Children
Adopted minors may qualify if the adoption is legally recognized under Latvian law, but again, children may not automatically acquire citizenship when their parent does. It’s important to have a trusted guide to help you gather your application. Citizenship.eu can help you connect with one of these experts once you’ve determined your eligibility as part of our service packages.
For adopted children, additional criteria may apply, such as demonstrating basic Latvian language proficiency when applying later in life or when renewing documents within the European Union framework.
Legal Framework
The Citizenship Law of Latvia, with amendments in 2013 and 2020, expanded eligibility for descendants of pre-1940 citizens and clarified procedures for children.
The Application Process for Children
Step 1: Determine Parent’s Status
Confirm whether the parent is already recognized or eligible to apply for Latvian citizenship. The child’s case usually follows the parent’s.
If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible, citizenship.eu can help you discover if you qualify.
Step 2: Gather the Child’s Records
- Birth certificate (long form, listing both parents).
- Proof of parent’s Latvian citizenship or application.
- Adoption decrees if relevant.
Step 3: File the Application
Applications can be submitted at:
- The Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA) in Latvia, or
- Latvian embassies and consulates abroad.
Parents need to submit on behalf of their minor children.
Step 4: Processing
Applications for Latvian citizenship typically take 6–12 months, though complex archival cases may take longer. Sometimes this process includes requests for additional meetings or documents, so it’s important to be prepared.
Step 5: Recognition
Once approved, the child is added to Latvia’s registry and may apply for a passport. A Latvian passport (and possible dual citizenship) can open doors worldwide for your child — in travel, work, investment, and a lot more.
Documents Checklist
Documents might vary based on the complexity of your Latvian citizenship case and the discretion of your case manager. However, all applications should include the following:
- Child’s long-form birth certificate.
- Parent’s Latvian passport or recognition certificate.
- Parents’ marriage certificate, if applicable.
- Adoption or custody papers if relevant.
- Passports for parent and child.
- Apostilles and certified translations into Latvian.
Dual Citizenship for Children
Since reforms in 2013, Latvia permits dual citizenship with many countries, including EU, NATO, OECD, and EFTA members. If you’re from one of these countries, your child may retain their original nationality while becoming Latvian.
To check whether your country applies, you can search this list of Latvian dual citizenship agreements.
Common Challenges
Proving Pre-1940 Citizenship
Eligibility depends on an ancestor being a Latvian citizen before the 1940 Soviet occupation. Records may be missing, requiring archival research.
Transliteration Issues
Latvian names were often altered abroad. Consistency across documents is essential.
Timing
If parents delay applying, children who turn 18 must apply independently, making the process more complicated.
Example Scenarios
- Born Abroad to a Latvian Parent
Ilze, a Latvian citizen, gives birth in Canada. Her child is automatically Latvian once the birth is registered at the embassy. - Parent Recognized Later
Andris, living in the U.S., applies for citizenship in 2023 based on his pre-1940 ancestors. His 14-year-old son is included in the process. - Adopted Child
A Latvian citizen adopts a 9-year-old in Australia. Once the adoption is legally recognized, the child becomes Latvian.
FAQs
Do children automatically qualify if one parent is Latvian?
Yes, but registration of the birth is required.
What if the parent is recognized later?
Children under 18 might be included, but this can vary in some cases. Adults must apply separately.
Do children need to live in Latvia?
No, but birth registration or recognition is essential.
Is there an age limit?
Yes. After 18, children must file independently.
How long does the process take?
6–12 months for straightforward cases, longer if archival records are needed.
In Conclusion
Children of Latvian citizens qualify for citizenship, whether automatically at birth or through an application process. The details here can vary, which means it’s important to get an expert opinion and/or a professional to guide you in your application process. By applying early, families ensure their children enjoy EU rights and secure their Latvian identity.
You can start with one of our service packages today to see if your child qualifies for Latvian citizenship.