National ID card renewal in Latvia
Renewing a Latvian national ID card (eID) generally involves submitting an application and required documents in person at a branch of the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (PMLP) or at a Latvian diplomatic mission abroad, followed by collecting the new card.
It is advisable to begin the renewal process several months before the current card's expiration date, especially if applying from abroad. This allows ample time for booking appointments, document processing, and delivery, which can take several weeks.
Start 30 days ahead
The standard processing time for an eID card is typically 10 working days, with an expedited option available for 2 working days for an additional fee. However, applicants abroad should account for longer processing and delivery times, and appointment availability.
The process
- 1Verify the expiration date of the current eID card and plan the renewal timeline.
- 2Book an appointment at a convenient PMLP branch in Latvia or at a Latvian diplomatic mission if abroad. Some offices may offer walk-in services, but appointments are often recommended.
- 3Attend the appointment, submit the application, provide biometric data (fingerprints and a digital photograph), and present necessary supporting documents.
- 4Pay the state fee for the eID card and any additional fees for expedited processing or delivery.
- 5Collect the new eID card in person at the same PMLP branch or diplomatic mission where the application was submitted, or arrange for delivery if offered.
What to bring
- Current Latvian national ID card (eID) or passport (if the eID is expired or lost, other identification documents may be required)
- Documents proving a change of personal data (e.g., marriage certificate, if name has changed)
- Proof of legal basis for staying in Latvia (for non-citizens and stateless persons with Latvian eID)
Who handles it
Pilsonības un migrācijas lietu pārvalde (Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs - PMLP)
The state fee for issuing an eID card is subject to change. Standard processing typically costs around 15 EUR for adults, with reduced fees for certain groups (e.g., pensioners, disabled persons) and higher fees for expedited processing (e.g., 30 EUR for 2 working days). Fees for applications submitted at diplomatic missions abroad may also vary. It is important to confirm current fees directly with PMLP or the relevant diplomatic mission.
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure all necessary supporting documents are current and complete before the appointment to avoid delays.
- Be aware that appointment availability, especially at diplomatic missions, can be limited, requiring booking well in advance.
- If applying from abroad, confirm specific requirements and payment methods with the relevant Latvian embassy or consulate, as procedures may differ slightly from those in Latvia.
- The new eID card will require activation of its electronic functions, which may involve setting up a PIN.
Sources
- pmlp.gov.lv
- eID karte (eID card) pmlp.gov.lv
- mfa.gov.lv
Other documents in Latvia
National ID card renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
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