Associations are voluntary non-profit unions of members that are formed to work toward a goal that is outlined in the articles of association. Legal entities and even partnerships can have ownership over them. To register a corporation of this kind, you need the participation of at least two people. The Cabinet Regulations classify associations under the kind of activities that those associations engage in. These classifications are used to group associations. When they are recorded in the registry of associations and foundations, they are granted the status of a person who can sue and be sued. The registration of an entity of this kind typically takes at least 7 days to complete.

If you are interested in setting up an association in the country or considering doing this, here is a simple and informative guide on how to register an association here. 

Registration procedure

The process of registering associations within this European territory is simple and quite easy. To register a Latvian association, follow the steps below:

• Choose a name
• Draft the Articles of Association
• Check for an address
• Fill out the registration form
• Pay the fees
• Submission of documents

Choosing a name

The name of an association ensures its visibility. There are certain conditions to consider when choosing a name. They include but are not limited to:

• It must comply with Latvian laws, and regulations
• It should be unique and different from other registered names
• It shouldn’t misrepresent the association’s mission, activities, or organization
• Such a name shouldn’t resemble state- or locally-owned entities
• Such a name must be in only Latvian or Latin letters 

Drafting the Articles of Association

An article of association is a document that specifies the important principles for the activities an association carries out. It must be signed by all the founders of at least two members and contain:

• Association name
• Aim and objectives of the association
• Timeline of the association after the establishment
• Requirements for new members and withdrawal
• Members’ rights and duties
• Pre-approved requirements for calling a meeting and making decisions, etc.

Filling the registration form

To fully register a Latvian association, an application must be made by filling out the registration form. The form must be signed by all the founders of at least two representatives. The application should contain:

• Name
• Registered address
• Mission
• Form of activity according to the classification of the Cabinet
• Date the decision on establishment was made
• Names, and personal identification numbers of the management board

Payment of the state fees

Before applying, you are required to pay a fee to the state. After the Enterprise Register has confirmed that the fee has been deposited into the Treasury account, only then will the registration process be able to proceed. Any bank will accept the payment up until two business days before the deadline for submitting the necessary documentation.

Submission of required documents

For the process to be completed and the association registered, the form and required documents must be presented by its founders or an entrusted person. Necessary documents include the following:

• Application form B2
• Decision to establish
• A legal statement backing the representation of a foreign business owner by a fiscal agent
• Receipt, copy, or online bank payment printout showing State fee payment

E-service submission

Either an electronic signature generated on an eParaksts mobile device and uploaded to the portal at www.eparaksts.lv or a smart card must be used to sign the documents (eID or eParaksta card). They can also be filed electronically through the website located at www.latvija.lv. When applicants choose this approach, they do not only get a response in the form of an e-service or e-address, but they also get a reduction of 10% on the state charge.

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