✉️ PMLP

Izsaukums and invitation for a foreigner

Before a foreigner can request a visa or residence permit, the inviting party in Latvia must arrange an invitation (ielūgums, for a visa) or an izsaukums (for a residence permit) and have it approved by PMLP. Submitted electronically via Latvija.gov.lv the state fee is 10 EUR; without the e-service — 17 EUR.

Service passportUpdated: 28.07.2026.
Cost
10 EUR electronically · 17 EUR otherwise
Duration
Reviewed within a few working days
Deadline
Must be arranged before the visa/permit application
Where
E-service on Latvija.gov.lv or PMLP

Who this applies to

Employers wishing to hire a third-country national (izsaukums), and individuals inviting a foreigner for a visit or to join family (ielūgums). The approved document is a mandatory basis for the foreigner's visa or residence-permit application.

Step by step

Fill in the e-service

On Latvija.gov.lv choose the e-service “Ielūguma vai izsaukuma apstiprināšana vīzas vai uzturēšanās atļaujas pieprasīšanai Latvijas Republikā” and log in. Electronic submission is both cheaper (10 EUR vs 17 EUR) and faster.

Enter the invitee's details

An employer states the position and employment terms; an individual — the purpose of entry and their relation to the invitee. Make sure the foreigner's passport data is entered exactly — an error will halt the whole further process.

Pay the fee and await approval

PMLP usually reviews an izsaukums within a few working days; if additional documents are needed, the term may be extended. After approval the inviter receives a confirmation, whose number the foreigner states in the visa or residence-permit application.

Common mistakes

Submitting on paper without need — electronic is cheaper and easier.
Errors in the foreigner's passport data — a confirmation with wrong data won't work for the visa or permit application.
Leaving the izsaukums to the last moment — without an approved izsaukums the foreigner cannot even start the permit application.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between ielūgums and izsaukums?

An ielūgums is arranged for a visa request, an izsaukums for a residence permit. Both are approved by PMLP, and since 2025 both cost 10 EUR electronically or 17 EUR otherwise.

How long does the review take?

Usually a few working days; if PMLP requests additional documents, the term may be extended.

What happens after approval?

The inviter receives a confirmation whose number serves as the basis for the foreigner's visa or residence-permit application.

Official sources

See also