Does the employer have to register the vacancy before hiring me in Latvia?

Latvia applies a labour market test to most third-country employment. Before hiring a non-EU worker, the employer registers the vacancy with the State Employment Agency and keeps it open for at least 10 working days, giving the local and EU workforce first opportunity.

Only after that period can the employer proceed with sponsoring the third-country candidate. This step is the employer's responsibility and is built into the timeline, so it is worth confirming with your prospective employer that the vacancy has been properly registered before you count on the permit moving forward.