Overall Rank: #43 out of 199 countries
Latvia ranks #43 out of 199 countries and territories in the Globevisa Passport Ranking, placing it in the high-performing category. Across the five core dimensions — Mobility (#31), Governance (#35), Security (#91), Education (#51), and Quality of Life (#63) — Latvia performs strongest in mobility (#31), followed by governance (#35). Its weakest dimension is security (#91).
Mobility: #31 (score 85/100), Governance: #35 (score 83/100), Security: #91 (score 55/100), Education: #51 (score 75/100), Quality of Life: #63 (score 69/100)
Latvia ranks #43 globally in the 2026 Globevisa Passport Ranking, which evaluates 199 countries and territories worldwide. Unlike traditional passport indices that focus solely on visa-free destination counts, the Globevisa Passport Ranking provides a comprehensive structural assessment across five core dimensions: Mobility, Governance, Security, Education, and Quality of Life. In terms of strengths, Latvia excels in Mobility (#31, score 85), Governance (#35, score 83), Education (#51, score 75), Quality of Life (#63, score 69).
Country Overview: Latvia is a stable Baltic EU member state with a highly open, investment-driven residency policy and a business-friendly environment. / Affordable European residency gateway with high global mobility.
Identity Attributes: Long-term Residency, Identity Springboard
Global Taxation: Yes (Worldwide Taxation)
Cost of Living: Low
Culture & Adaptation: Moderate English proficiency among younger generations while Latvian is essential for long-term integration; significant cultural emphasis on national identity and language; best suited for European professionals and those comfortable with a reserved social environment.
Employment & Development: Dynamic ICT and service-led economy; high demand for skilled tech and finance professionals; language requirements and work permit regulations as primary entry barriers
A Latvian passport provides extensive global mobility, including full freedom of movement within the Schengen Area and visa-free access to the United Kingdom and the United States via the Visa Waiver Program. As an EU member state document, it is highly regarded internationally and ranked among the most powerful passports for travel and business. While there are currently no significant risks of visa-free access being suspended, holders should stay informed about evolving security protocols like the EU's ETIAS and the UK's ETA. The passport’s standing remains stable, supported by Latvia's deep integration into European and international regulatory frameworks.
Latvia’s immigration policies have historically been among the most stable in Europe, though the legal framework is currently entering an evolving phase due to regional security concerns and alignment with broader European Union standards. While the core investment pathways have remained consistent for over a decade, recent years have seen a tightening of rules for specific nationalities and the introduction of stricter language and financial integration requirements scheduled for 2026. Prospective applicants should be aware that future policies may continue to prioritize social integration and national security, which could lead to increased regulatory scrutiny or further restructuring of investment thresholds. Consequently, while the program remains a functional route to residency, it is subject to the ongoing legislative shifts common to many EU-linked investment migration schemes.
Latvia is a stable parliamentary democracy and a member of the EU and NATO, offering a generally safe environment for residents with a low rate of serious crime against international visitors. While safety conditions are consistent across most of the country, petty crimes such as pickpocketing are more prevalent in crowded areas of Riga, such as the Old Town and central transportation hubs, requiring standard situational awareness. Personal and property security are upheld by capable state and municipal police forces and a legal system undergoing continuous reform to align with European standards. To further ensure long-term stability, the government has implemented a comprehensive national defense framework that integrates various sectors of society to manage potential crises and enhance overall resilience.