Living in Latvia: A Complete Guide for Expats in 2025

Living in Latvia offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and modern conveniences that attract expats from all over Europe. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, Latvia promises a high quality of life at a cost that won’t break the bank. From the medieval charm of Riga to the tranquility of its pristine forests, Latvia is a country that balances tradition with innovation.

At VanOnSite, we’ve supported hundreds of families and professionals in relocating across Europe — including numerous seamless moves to Latvia. This guide will walk you through the essentials of living in Latvia and how to get there smoothly and confidently.

Key Takeouts:

1. Latvia offers a low cost of living and strong digital infrastructure.
2. EU citizens benefit from straightforward relocation processes.
3. Riga, Liepāja, and Daugavpils are top expat destinations.
4. Nature, safety, and culture make Latvia ideal for families and remote workers.
5. VanOnSite provides full-service, door-to-door European removals.
6. A well-planned move to Latvia ensures a smooth and stress-free transition.

How living in Latvia looks like?

Living in Latvia combines modern comforts with old-world charm. As an EU member, it offers ease of mobility, affordable living, and a peaceful lifestyle that appeals to families, remote workers, and retirees alike.

Work & Career

Latvia’s job market is growing, particularly in sectors like IT, finance, logistics, and tourism. Riga is a hub for startups and international companies, while remote work is supported by fast internet and affordable coworking spaces.

Education

The country has a well-structured public education system, and many international schools are available in larger cities. Universities in Latvia offer programs in English, attracting students from across Europe.

Safety & Healthcare

Latvia is one of the safest countries in the region, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. Healthcare is accessible and improving steadily, with private clinics offering affordable services and short wait times.

Cost of Living & Housing

Latvia remains one of the most affordable EU countries. Housing is available in a wide range of prices, with modern apartments and houses in Riga and smaller, budget-friendly options in towns. Public transport is reliable and inexpensive.

Culture & Community

Latvian culture blends Baltic traditions with modern European trends. From midsummer festivals to contemporary art scenes, the country is culturally rich and welcoming. English is commonly spoken in urban areas, and locals are increasingly open to international residents.

Living in Latvia means enjoying space, nature, and peace of mind — with all the essentials of modern life within easy reach.

Moving to Latvia: What You Should Know

At VanOnSite, we specialize in stress-free removals to Latvia. Here’s how we make your relocation seamless — and ensure you’re prepared with the right documentation and cultural insights:

Required Documents for Moving to Latvia

If you’re relocating from the EU, UK, Norway, or Switzerland, here’s what you typically need:

• Valid passport or national ID
• Proof of residence (rental agreement or property ownership)
• Proof of income or employment
• European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or private health insurance
• Registration with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA) within 90 days

For UK citizens, post-Brexit rules apply, which may include visa or residence permit applications depending on your purpose of stay.

What Living in Latvia Really Looks Like

While cities like Riga and Liepāja offer vibrant urban life, smaller towns and rural areas in Latvia provide a very different — yet equally rewarding — lifestyle. Life in the countryside is calm and closely connected to nature, with many residents enjoying self-sustained living, gardening, and strong community ties. Smaller towns tend to be quieter, more traditional, and cost-effective, with significantly lower rental and utility costs. Cultural life here may revolve around local festivals, folk traditions, and community centers rather than large concert halls or museums. Though access to services such as healthcare and education may be more limited than in major cities, public infrastructure is gradually improving, and many families find the quality of life in rural Latvia refreshingly simple and fulfilling.

Living in Latvia means adapting to a calm, nature-oriented lifestyle with access to high-quality education, safety, and services:

• Work-life balance is valued, with shorter workweeks and strong family traditions.
• Education is accessible and respected; international and English-language options are expanding.
• Healthcare is public and supplemented by private care that’s affordable and prompt.
• Cultural life is rich in festivals, classical music, and Nordic-Baltic customs.
• Languages: Latvian is the official language, but Russian is also widely spoken, especially in urban areas. English is commonly used in business and among younger generations.

Cost of Living in Latvia

Here’s a quick snapshot of typical monthly expenses in Latvia:

Tip: Riga, the capital, is more expensive than cities like Daugavpils or Liepāja — but still cheaper than most Western European cities. Opting for suburban housing or smaller cities can significantly lower your costs.

Working and Living in Latvia as an Expat

Jobs & Remote Work

Latvia’s job market is developing rapidly, with several key sectors showing strong growth. The country is especially attractive to expats in the following industries:

• Information Technology (IT): A thriving startup ecosystem and demand for skilled developers and data analysts.
• Shared Services & Finance: Many international corporations have outsourced financial, HR, and customer service operations to Riga.
• Logistics & Transport: Latvia’s strategic location makes it a key player in Baltic logistics.
• Tourism & Hospitality: Especially in coastal cities and the capital, job opportunities increase during peak travel seasons.
• Construction & Engineering: Ongoing infrastructure development projects create regular demand.

Remote work is highly accessible, supported by widespread high-speed internet and numerous coworking spaces.

Communication & Language

• Latvian is the official language and is used in most public institutions and local businesses.
• Russian is widely spoken, especially in Riga and the east of the country.
• English is commonly used in business, tech, and among younger generations.

Most expats find it helpful to learn basic Latvian phrases, especially outside major cities, but day-to-day communication is generally manageable for English speakers.

Higher Education in Latvia

Latvia is home to several respected universities such as the University of Latvia and Riga Technical University. Many offer:

• Undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in English, especially in business, medicine, and IT.
• Affordable tuition fees compared to Western Europe.
• EU-recognized diplomas, allowing graduates to work across the Union.

The academic calendar usually starts in September, and application processes for English-language programs are well-structured and open to international students.

Things You’ll Love About Latvia

1. Nature Galore: Over 50% of Latvia is covered by forest, with hundreds of hiking trails, national parks like Gauja, and abundant wildlife.
2. Four Real Seasons: Experience snowy winters with outdoor skating and cozy saunas, bright green springs, sunny Baltic summers with white nights, and golden autumns ideal for forest walks.
3. Low Crime Rate: Latvia is one of the safest countries in Europe, offering a relaxed and secure atmosphere for families and solo travelers alike.
4. Cultural Richness: Latvia boasts more than 100 castles and manors, a vibrant opera and ballet scene in Riga, UNESCO heritage towns like Kuldīga, and one of the world’s oldest song festivals — the Latvian Song and Dance Celebration.
5. Nordic-Baltic Blend: Latvia sits at a cultural crossroads, combining Nordic minimalism with Eastern European warmth and traditions.
6. Seasonal Traditions: Locals celebrate midsummer (Jāņi) with bonfires and folk songs, while winter brings traditional markets, hot honey beer, and crafts in old town squares.

Pros and Cons of Living in Latvia

Latvia offers a distinctive European experience that blends affordability, culture, and nature — but like any destination, it’s important to weigh the advantages and drawbacks before making the move.

Pros:

• Affordable Cost of Living: From rent to groceries, everyday life is much cheaper compared to Western Europe.
• Natural Beauty: Over half of the country is forested, with numerous lakes, beaches, and parks to explore year-round.
• Safety: Latvia boasts a low crime rate, creating a safe environment for individuals and families.
• EU Membership: For EU citizens, settling, working, and studying in Latvia is simplified by shared policies and rights.
• Growing Expat Community: Especially in Riga, you’ll find international schools, coworking hubs, and networking groups.
• Digital Infrastructure: Fast and widespread internet access makes Latvia an attractive destination for remote workers.
• Rich Culture: With its folk traditions, seasonal festivals, and vibrant arts scene, Latvian culture is both deep and diverse.

Cons:

• Language Barrier: Latvian is not widely spoken outside the region; while many speak English in cities, rural areas may require basic Latvian or Russian.
• Limited Job Market in Some Fields: Although certain sectors are growing, job opportunities may be scarce in specialized fields without Latvian fluency.
• Cold Winters: The climate can be harsh, especially for those unaccustomed to long, dark winters.
• Bureaucracy: Some expats report slow or complex administrative processes for things like residency, taxes, or healthcare registration.
• Healthcare Gaps in Rural Areas: While urban centers offer good medical care, rural regions may have limited access to facilities or specialists.
• Social Reserve: Latvians can be initially reserved; making close friendships may take time and patience.

Understanding these factors can help you prepare for a smoother transition and set realistic expectations when planning your life in Latvia.

Real Stories: Moving to Latvia with VanOnSite

Anna from Berlin, Germany

“Moving to Latvia felt like a fresh start. VANonsite took care of every detail — they even unpacked our kitchen for us. Riga is peaceful, and we now spend our weekends at the beach or exploring the forest trails nearby.”

Tomasz and Magdalena from Wrocław, Poland

“We moved to Cēsis with our two kids. The process was smooth and on time. The cost of living is significantly lower than in Poland’s larger cities, and the nature is just breathtaking. Our kids are now learning Latvian in a local school and love it.”

Grace from Manchester, UK

“I was nervous about Brexit paperwork, but VanOnSite handled customs like pros. I now live in Jūrmala and work remotely. The Wi-Fi is great, people are friendly, and I absolutely adore the Baltic summer evenings.”

Lars from Oslo, Norway

“I relocated to Latvia for my remote IT job. VANonsite was fast and efficient. Living in Liepāja gives me easy access to nature, a great local gym, and low daily expenses. I’ve even started learning Latvian.”

These personal stories highlight just how fulfilling a well-supported move to Latvia can be — especially with the right help along the way.

Latvian Cuisine

Latvian cuisine reflects the country’s history, climate, and love for seasonal, locally sourced food. Meals are often hearty, simple, and satisfying, with a strong emphasis on grains, dairy, potatoes, and preserved products.

Here are some must-try foods and drinks:

• Grey peas with bacon (Pelēkie zirņi ar speķi): A national dish made with hearty field peas and smoked pork.
• Rye bread (Rupjmaize): Dense and slightly sour, often served with butter or local cheese.
• Piragi: Crescent-shaped buns filled with bacon and onions.
• Sklandrausis: Sweet rye pastry with carrot and potato filling, a UNESCO-recognized heritage dish.
• Cold beet soup (Aukstā zupa): A summer favorite made with kefir, beets, and herbs.
• Smoked fish: Especially popular in coastal towns, including eel, herring, and sprats.
• Latvian cheese: Traditional caraway cheese is often served during midsummer festivals.

Local Drinks:

• Riga Black Balsam: A strong herbal liqueur with a distinct taste, traditionally used as a remedy.
• Local craft beers: Latvia has a growing scene of small breweries producing flavorful lagers and ales.
• Kvass: A mildly alcoholic fermented beverage made from rye bread, often enjoyed as a soft drink.
• Birch sap: A seasonal spring drink believed to have detoxifying benefits.

Latvian cuisine is closely tied to the seasons and local culture, with many dishes prepared at home and passed down through generations.

 How VanOnSite Helps You Settle in Latvia

Here’s why expats across Europe choose VanOnSite for their move:

• Reliable, multilingual support team: Our customer care team guides you in English, German, Polish, and more — before, during, and after the move.
• Transparent pricing and no hidden costs: We provide all-inclusive quotes tailored to your move’s volume and distance, with zero surprise charges.
• Specialized fleet and equipment: Our modern vans are equipped for all types of relocations — from studio flats to full family homes — with options for express delivery or part-loads.
• Experienced in long-distance European removals: With a strong track record in cross-border logistics, we regularly move clients to and from Germany, the UK, Netherlands, and the Baltics.
• Full-service solutions: Packing, disassembly, storage, customs clearance, and unloading — we manage it all so you don’t have to.
• Customs and border logistics expertise: Especially valuable for non-EU customers (UK, Switzerland), we take care of the documentation and compliance steps required for smooth cross-border transitions.

Steps to Move to Latvia with VanOnSite

1. Get a Free Quote: Use our online form or call us directly. You’ll be asked for basic details about your current and future locations, the size of your move, and any special requirements. Our team will assess your needs and provide a transparent, customized quote.
2. Schedule Your Move: Once you accept the quote, we help organize the date and timing that works best for you. We offer advice on packing, downsizing, and preparing your belongings. You can opt for self-packing or full professional packing services — including disassembly of furniture.
3. Customs & Transport: Our experienced logistics team manages transport logistics and all cross-border documentation. For moves from the UK, Norway, or Switzerland, we handle customs declarations and compliance to ensure your items move through borders smoothly and legally.
4. Unpack and Settle: Upon arrival, we unload, unpack (if requested), and place your items exactly where you want them. Need temporary storage? We offer that too. From start to finish, we make sure your transition into Latvian life is comfortable and efficient.

Final Thoughts: Is Living in Latvia Right for You?

If you’re looking for a balanced lifestyle, where nature meets opportunity, affordability meets quality of life, and tradition meets modernity, then Latvia is an excellent choice.

With VanOnSite, your move becomes a smooth journey — not a stressful chore.

Ready to Move?

📞 Contact us today for your free relocation quote
🌍 Visit: vanonsite-commercial.pl/removals-to-latvia
📧 Email: [email protected]

Your new life in Latvia starts with one decision — and one van.