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→ Start the quizMoving to Latvia: At a Glance
Latvia is in Eastern Europe (the Baltics), with its main hub in Riga. It’s known for good value, a walkable capital city, and a practical EU base for travel and regional work — especially if you prioritize affordability and simplicity over the biggest salaries.
Residence Permit Basics (EU vs non-EU)
Requirements depend on whether you are an EU/EEA citizen or moving from outside the EU. This is a practical overview — confirm details from official sources.
- EU/EEA citizens: You can live and work in Latvia, but usually need to register your residence for longer stays.
- Non-EU citizens: You’ll typically need a temporary residence permit (work, studies, family, business/startup routes).
- Common documents: passport, housing proof, health insurance, and a legal basis (employment contract, studies, etc.).
- Best practice: Start early and keep digital copies of all documents.
Key Numbers (2026)
Quick Links
Job Market and Career Opportunities
Why Latvia is the Baltic Gateway
Latvia combines stunning Baltic coastline, rich Art Nouveau architecture, and growing modern economy at accessible costs. With unemployment at 7.2% and good English proficiency (62%), opportunities exist especially in logistics, finance, and tech sectors. The average salary of €20,000 provides decent purchasing power with moderate Baltic living costs.
Top Industries in Latvia
Transportation & Logistics
Major Baltic port hub connecting Europe with Russia/CIS countries through Riga port and rail network.
Financial Services
Growing fintech sector and traditional banking serving both domestic and CIS markets.
Wood Processing
Strong forestry-based industries with sustainable wood products and furniture manufacturing.
Job Applications and Language Requirements
English proficiency at 62% makes Latvia accessible for international professionals, especially in Riga. Latvian language valuable but international companies often operate in English. Russian also widely spoken. Growing opportunities in logistics, finance, and emerging tech sectors.
Pro Tip for Job Hunting
CV Market and SS.lv are main platforms. Riga dominates job market. Russian language valuable for regional business. Maritime and logistics sectors strong throughout country.
Housing in Latvia
Art Nouveau Beauty at Fair Prices
Latvia offers charming housing from stunning Riga Art Nouveau apartments to coastal properties at reasonable Baltic prices. Average rent is €9/m² - moderate for region - with good availability (~75%). Purchase prices average €2,100/m², making Latvian real estate attractive with EU membership benefits and Baltic lifestyle.
Major Cities by Housing Costs
Riga
Daugavpils
Liepāja
Jelgava
Apartment Hunting - Practical Tips
- Use SS.lv and City24.lv: Main Latvian housing platforms
- Riga Old Town: UNESCO World Heritage area - beautiful but tourist-heavy and expensive
- Art Nouveau district: Stunning architecture but may need renovation, higher costs
- Soviet-era apartments: Affordable options, many upgraded with modern amenities
Cost of Living by City (Quick Comparison)
Riga is the main expat hub. Smaller cities can be cheaper, but job opportunities are more limited.
- Riga: biggest job market and services, higher rents than the rest of Latvia.
- Jūrmala: coastal lifestyle near Riga, can be seasonal and pricier in summer.
- Liepāja / Daugavpils: often cheaper housing, smaller job market and fewer English-speaking roles.
Taxation and Net Salaries
Latvian Tax System
Progressive tax system with solidarity tax for higher earners. Average net salary ~€15,000 on €20,000 gross. Progressive rates with additional solidarity tax for higher income brackets.
Income Tax Brackets 2025
| Income Bracket | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| under €25,000 | 23.0% |
| €25,000-50,000 | 23.0% |
| over €50,000 | 31.0% |
Baltic Business Environment
Latvia offers competitive business environment with EU single market access. Growing support for startups and international businesses. Strategic location for trade with both EU and CIS countries.
Key Benefits:
- Progressive tax system
- EU single market access
- Strategic location for trade
- Growing startup ecosystem
Cost of Living
Monthly Essential Costs
Groceries and Daily Items
€170/monthMaxima, Rimi and IKI main chains. Good local produce. Baltic seafood specialties.
Transportation
€22/monthGood public transport in Riga. Reasonable intercity connections. Affordable costs overall.
Utilities
€83/monthHeating €55, electricity €28. District heating common, well-insulated apartments.
Health Insurance
€0/monthFree public healthcare for employed residents. Private options available.
Internet and Mobile
€22/monthLMT, Tele2 and Bite. Good coverage and competitive Baltic pricing.
Bureaucracy and Practical Matters
First Steps After Moving
Register at Population Registry
Register residence at local population registry within 30 days. Receive registration certificate.
Get Personal Code
Apply for Latvian personal code (personas kods) at local government office for employment and services.
Open Bank Account
Swedbank, SEB or Luminor. Need registration proof and identification documents.
Culture and Lifestyle
Baltic Elegance Meets Forest Traditions
Latvian culture combines Baltic elegance with deep forest traditions and maritime heritage. 62% English proficiency and international outlook, especially in Riga. Strong connection to nature, folk traditions, and architectural beauty. Growing expat community with good international connections.
Lifestyle Characteristics
Art Nouveau Capital
Riga has world's finest collection of Art Nouveau architecture with over 750 buildings.
Baltic Beaches
Stunning white sand beaches at Jūrmala and along 500km of Baltic coastline.
Forest Culture
Over 50% forest coverage with strong traditions of mushroom picking, nature access, and outdoor life.
Summary: Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Beautiful Art Nouveau architecture in Riga
- Good English proficiency (62%)
- Stunning Baltic coastline and beaches
- Strategic location for European business
- EU membership with single market access
- Strong logistics and transport sector
Challenges
- Higher unemployment than neighbors (7.2%)
- Lower average salaries than Western Europe
- Latvian language helpful for advancement
- Limited job diversity outside Riga
- Long, dark winters
- Smaller expat communities outside capital
Final Recommendation
Best for: Architecture enthusiasts, logistics professionals, nature lovers seeking Baltic lifestyle with reasonable costs; ideal for those in transportation, finance, or remote work with appreciation for Art Nouveau beauty and coastal access.