Latvian Citizenship by Descent: How to Reclaim Your Latvian Heritage

If you have Latvian roots, you may be entitled to Latvian citizenship by descent, allowing you to reconnect with your heritage and gain the benefits of being a European Union (EU) citizen. This path lets descendants of pre-1940 Latvian citizens restore their nationality — and enjoy visa-free travel, dual citizenship, and access to Europe’s opportunities.

Who Qualifies for Latvian Citizenship by Descent?

You may be eligible for Latvian citizenship restoration if one of your ancestors was a Latvian citizen before June 17, 1940 — the date Latvia lost independence due to Soviet occupation. The Latvian government allows descendants of those who fled or were exiled during World War II to reclaim citizenship.

You can qualify if:

• A parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent was a Latvian citizen before 1940.

• Your ancestor fled Latvia during wartime or occupation.

• You can provide official records proving your family’s Latvian heritage.

Latvia also recognizes dual citizenship for those restoring nationality through descent, meaning you can keep your existing citizenship in most cases.

Key Benefits of Latvian Citizenship

Obtaining Latvian dual citizenship unlocks significant global advantages:

• EU Passport: Live, work, and study in any EU or EEA country.

• Visa-Free Travel: Access to 180+ countries, including the UK, Canada, and Japan.

• Generational Citizenship: Pass Latvian nationality to your children.

• Quality of Life: Access to European healthcare, education, and job markets.

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How to Apply for Latvian Citizenship by Descent

The process involves proving your Latvian lineage through documentation such as:

• Birth, marriage, or death certificates of Latvian ancestors.

• Pre-1940 Latvian passports or census records.

• Evidence of exile or emigration due to war or occupation.

Applications are submitted to the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA).

How can Baltic Migration help you?

Does your grandfather, grandmother or any other relative left Latvia during before or after WW2? Claim your Latvian citizenship now.

We offer a free and confidential eligibility assessment.

If you are eligible, we can provide you with a no-obligation quote.

We hope this article has provided you with a useful insight into the application process of claiming Latvian citizenship.

To find out more about citizenship in Latvia, please contact us at anna@balticmigration.com