Latvia as a Destination for Non-EU Jobseekers
Latvia, situated in Northern Europe, offers an emerging opportunity for non-EU jobseekers looking to establish a career in a growing economy. With its affordable cost of living, strategic location in the European Union, and a rising demand for labor in certain sectors, Latvia is becoming a popular choice for those seeking opportunities abroad.
Key Advantages for Non-EU Jobseekers:
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EU Access: Working in Latvia allows non-EU citizens to potentially explore other EU job markets in the future.
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Simplified Work Visa Process: Latvia offers various visa pathways tailored for skilled and unskilled workers.
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Diverse Industries: Opportunities exist in manufacturing, agriculture, construction, and services.
Popular Professions for Unskilled Workers in Latvia
Non-EU jobseekers can find roles in industries experiencing labor shortages. Here are the most common sectors:
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Manufacturing and Warehousing
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Roles: Factory workers, assembly line operators, warehouse staff.
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Demand: Growing due to Latvia’s expanding export market.
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Agriculture and Farming
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Roles: Farmhands, fruit and vegetable pickers, livestock caretakers.
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Seasonal work is common, particularly during harvest periods.
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Construction and Infrastructure
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Roles: General laborers, construction assistants, road maintenance workers.
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Demand fueled by ongoing urban development projects.
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Hospitality and Cleaning Services
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Roles: Housekeepers, kitchen helpers, cleaning staff.
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Growing demand due to increased tourism and hospitality expansion.
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Logistics and Transport
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Roles: Delivery assistants, loaders, truck helpers.
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Driven by Latvia's role as a key logistics hub in the Baltics.
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Companies in Latvia Offering Visa Sponsorship in 2025
Several Latvian companies are increasingly offering visa sponsorship to attract foreign talent. While specific companies vary by sector, here are some key categories and notable names:
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Manufacturing and Exports:
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Lauma Fabrics: Textile manufacturing giant.
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Stora Enso: Wood and paper processing company.
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Agriculture:
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Balticovo: One of Europe’s largest egg producers.
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Latvijas Lauksaimniecības kooperatīvu asociācija (Latvian Agricultural Cooperatives Association).
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Construction:
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RB Rail AS: Part of the Rail Baltica project.
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Merks: Specializes in infrastructure and housing projects.
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Hospitality:
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Lido Group: Popular restaurant and catering business.
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IT and Logistics:
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AirBaltic: National airline with roles in logistics and support.
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DHL Latvia: Focuses on supply chain and delivery operations.
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Salaries for Unskilled Workers in Latvia in 2025
Salaries for unskilled workers in Latvia are modest compared to other EU countries but align with the country's cost of living.
Approximate Monthly Salaries (Gross):
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Agriculture and Farming: €700–€1,000
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Manufacturing and Warehousing: €800–€1,200
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Construction: €1,000–€1,400
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Hospitality and Cleaning: €600–€900
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Logistics and Transport: €800–€1,100
Important Notes:
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Overtime and weekend work often contribute to higher earnings.
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Tax rates range between 20–23%, with social security included.
How to Get a Job as an Unskilled Worker in Latvia
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Research the Job Market:
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Use online platforms like CV.lv, EURES, and LinkedIn to explore job opportunities.
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Attend virtual job fairs focused on Baltic countries.
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Find Visa Sponsoring Employers:
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Apply to companies explicitly stating visa sponsorship in their job postings.
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Look for recruitment agencies specializing in Latvian work visas.
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Prepare Required Documents:
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Valid passport.
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Job offer or employment contract.
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Proof of qualifications (if applicable).
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Apply for a Latvian Work Visa:
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Submit an application through Latvia’s Immigration Department.
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Provide proof of employment and accommodation.
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Learn Basic Latvian or Russian:
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While not mandatory, knowing basic Latvian or Russian significantly improves employability and workplace integration.
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Utilize Networking Opportunities:
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Connect with expat communities in Latvia via social media groups.
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Join professional forums to discover hidden job opportunities.
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