Living and working conditions: Latvia

The most common ways of finding a job in Latvia include personal contacts, newspaper and radio job advertisements, employment agencies, recruitment firms and the internet that immensely broadens the job search options.

Bear in mind that in order to successfully find a job in Latvia adequate knowledge of Latvian is necessary. Latvian is the state (official) language in Latvia, and it is used in all state institutions and in most workplaces. In your job search, knowledge of Russian, and in some cases English, German or Scandinavian languages may prove useful.

The State Employment Agency (NVA)

The NVA is an institution supervised by the Ministry of Welfare that implements the government policy in the area of reducing unemployment and providing support to the unemployed and jobseekers. The NVA provides services, advice and assistance to natural and legal persons in reducing unemployment and supporting the unemployed and jobseekers, and also to national and local authorities and non-governmental organisations.

Information on available vacancies registered in the NVA database (only in Latvian) is available on the NVA homepage: www.nva.gov.lv in the CV and vacancies portal section. You can also upload your CV in this section to seek a job in Latvia.

If you are looking for a job and wish to receive assistance in your search, enrol in a retraining course or participate in other proactive employment activities offered by the NVA, or wish to apply for unemployment benefits, you must register with the NVA and receive the unemployed status. Employees of the NVA will advise on available vacancies, the rights and obligations of unemployed persons and jobseekers, professional suitability, the choice of a suitable profession and re-qualification.

For more information about the offered services, see the State Employment Agency homepage: www.nva.gov.lv

EURES — European Employment Services

The EURES portal eures.europa.eu contains extensive information about living conditions and employment opportunities not only in Latvia, but also in other European Union and European Economic Area countries. It is possible to receive free individual advice from NVA EURES consultants. Information about EURES in Latvia can be found on the NVA homepage: www.nva.gov.lv/eures (in English and Latvian).

Employment agencies

According to the law, job placement services (advice regarding employment issues, information on available vacancies, employment or other activities facilitating employment) may be provided by companies licensed by the State Employment Agency (NVA) for provision of such services. Information on private job placement offices licensed to place individuals in jobs in Latvia and abroad is available in the section Licensed private job placement agencies section of the State Employment Agency website.

Only entities licensed by the Ministry of Transport may place individuals in jobs on ships. The list of entities licensed by the Ministry of Transport is available on the website of the Maritime Administration of Latvia, the Registry of Seamen — Recruitment and Placement of Seafarers section.  www.lja.lv

Starting a business

You may become self-employed or set up your company. For information about how to start a business, please contact the State Revenue Service www.vid.gov.lv or the Register of Enterprises www.ur.gov.lv, or consult the homepage of the European Commission ‘Your Europe — Business’ on www.ec.europa.eu.

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Applying for a job

Latvian employers usually ask applicants to send their CVs by email or to contact the employer by phone. Employers generally prefer to receive applications from applicants who fulfil all the requirements listed in the relevant job advertisement. In the CV, an applicant must describe their professional experience, qualifications and skills, highlighting the skills and experience that are relevant for the desired job.

When preparing your CV, pay close attention to the accuracy of the provided information, the used language and style and its presentation.

The main thing to bear in mind is that the most important information should stand out. Your CV should not be longer than two pages.

In addition to the CV, employers often request a motivation or cover letter, in particular from applicants for higher-level positions. The cover letter is very important. It should be credible and convincing. Employers are looking for applicants who understand their business, their objectives and their market. Deceiving a potential employer about work experience or providing other incorrect information is unacceptable.

It is up to you whether to include a photo in your CV. Some employers ask for a photo, usually for jobs involving customer service.

If you wish to apply for seasonal or low-skilled work, it is usually possible to do so via telephone.

Job interviews

All companies commonly conduct interviews and tests to determine psychological and personality traits or to assess practical skills. Employers pay attention to personal, as well as professional qualities. It is very important to demonstrate motivation, ability and readiness to perform the job you are applying for. You need to be honest and explain what you could do to improve and in what way. You need to show that you really do want to work for the company offering the position.

In smaller firms, the job interview is conducted by the head of the firm or the line manager. In larger firms the interviewing panel usually consists of several people, including the head of the firm or relevant department, and a human resources specialist.

The employer will expect you to arrive on time for your interview. This demonstrates punctuality and a sense of responsibility.

The dress code will depend on the type of work and the position being applied for. It is important that you look neat and tidy. If the employer is a bank or government body, or if you are applying for an office job, you should choose business attire.

It is acceptable to shake hands when you arrive for a job interview, but do remember to wait for the employer to offer their hand first.

Interviews in Latvia are usually formal. It is assumed that the applicant has prepared for the interview and has knowledge of both the company and the position applied for. Applicants are permitted to ask questions about the job and their responsibilities to which they have not yet received an answer.

During the interview, the employer may not ask the applicant any discriminatory questions about their age, marital status or physical attributes (height, weight, etc.). In Latvia, during recruitment it is prohibited to discriminate on grounds of race, ethnic origin, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender, social origin, language, political views, etc.

The employer will usually notify you of the outcome of the application procedure within two weeks of the interview, although some firms may not notify you at all. If you do not receive a reply within the stipulated time frame, you can call the employer and enquire about the outcome.

Concluding an employment contract

Before signing an employment contract, the employee and the employer should discuss the working conditions: remuneration, frequency of payment, working hours and overtime, the probation time, additional benefits and other matters. Remember that in Latvia an employment contract is concluded in writing. Wages and salaries are usually paid twice a month.

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Definition

In Latvia, there is no formal definition of a ‘traineeship’. Traineeships that are a part of the vocational education are defined as the ‘practical part of a vocational education programme’. From a legal perspective, traineeships that are not part of such a vocational programme do not differ from regular legal employment relationships.

Opportunity to complete a traineeship abroad is available in higher education establishments as a part of the ERASMUS+ programme.

Training is also available in informal education or professional development courses. They are provided by professional educational establishments, university continuing education departments and their local/distance learning centres, chambers of commerce, adult education centres, associations and private services providers.

Compliance

The State Employment Agency offers several support measures financed from the European Social Fund to provide practical free training to the unemployed: a) professional qualification courses; c) subsidised on-the-job training.

Based on the terms and conditions for free movement of persons in the EU/EEA, EEA citizens who have registered their residence in the migration office and received a personal code, can complete education and traineeships in Latvia as a part of their education programmes.

EEA nationals can also register as the unemployed and sign up for support measures provided by the State Employment Agency, including professional training.

The eligibility criteria to register for the training as a part of private non-formal education may differ depending on the conditions set forth by the provider of education services.

In practice, in most cases the EEA nationals will require adequate knowledge of Latvian to complete the training.

Implementation

The law stipulates that the traineeship is a part of the occupation/vocational education at the primary education, secondary education and tertiary education level. The possibility to complete a traineeship during academic studies depends on the specific study programme. The traineeship is offered by the educational establishment alone or together with a partner: a state or private company, organisation or body. Alternatively, students may agree about a traineeship at their discretion if the selected traineeship provider is able to offer the training described in the study programme. In all cases, traineeship arrangements are regulated by the law and internal regulations of each educational establishment. If students complete traineeships beyond educational establishments, a tripartite agreement should be signed. Remuneration may be a part of the agreement, but it is not a mandatory requirement for the company/organisation.

Traineeships outside formal study programmes in Latvia have the same status as ordinary legal employment relationships governed by the Labour Law.

Living and working conditions

The government regulates professions where the trainees should have an accident insurance during the training period. The employer has no obligation to pay the trainee; however, if an agreement about a payment is reached, a written contract should be prepared.

Erasmus+ trainees receive a grant to cover travel and living costs.

Where to find opportunities

The main database with traineeship offers in Latvia is: www.prakse.lv

For more information about traineeship opportunities in Latvia, the candidates may contact:

• EURES: euresnva [dot] gov [dot] lv (eures[at]nva[dot]gov[dot]lv) re information sources and measures provided by the State Employment Service.
• State Education Development Agency: www.viaa.gov.lv
• Employers' Confederation of Latvia: https://www.lddk.lv

Educational establishments that offer traineeships:

https://www.nva.gov.lv/lv, re professional training of the unemployed.

Financing and support

• Erasmus+ in Latvia — www.viaa.gov.lv, www.jaunatne.gov.lv (Agency for International Programs for Youth) or higher education establishments that are a part of the programme.

Where to advertise opportunities

Traineeship/internship offers can be published on www.prakse.lv (a site specialising in such advertisements), as well as on several private vacancy portals. Many employers publish their offers on their websites and social media platforms. Quite often, students actively look for companies, bodies and organisations that provide training. Employers can contact educational institutions to establish cooperation and offer traineeship opportunities for students.

Financing and support

• Employers' Confederation of Latvia: https://www.lddk.lv
• More about Erasmus+ in Latvia — www.viaa.gov.lv, www.jaunatne.gov.lv (Agency for International Programs for Youth) or higher education establishments that are a part of the programme.

Legal framework

In Latvia, a trade apprentice is person that has joined a crafts company or an educational establishment, and has signed a training agreement in order to learn a craft.

Young people aged 15 and older can become a trade apprentice. Craft training takes place in accordance with craft education, craft training and testing programmes.

Apprentices are trained on the basis of a standard agreement signed by the apprentice and the school or master craftsman. Standard agreements are drawn and approved by the Ministry of Education.

Apprenticeships in Latvia are governed by the Law on Crafts http://likumi.lv/doc.php?id=63052.

Description of schemes

The apprenticeship is implemented separately from programmes in other education sectors, and it is not included in the classification of education programmes (no respective ISCED (International Standard Classification of Education) level). Only the Law on Crafts lays down norms for apprenticeships and procedures for granting a craftsman’s qualification.

The apprenticeship programme includes study periods followed by journeyman and master craftsman exams organised by the Latvian Chamber of Crafts. The Chamber has signed cooperation agreements with several vocational schools that provide theoretical training. Thus, apprenticeship programmes include school-based and company-based learning. School-based to company-based learning ratio is not established. The Chamber supervises training and enters craftsmen, journeymen and apprentices, crafts companies and master craftsmen in its database. It also issues licences that give individuals the right to train apprentices, the right that craftsmen enjoy by default.

The youth are admitted to apprenticeship programmes irrespective of their previous education, but not earlier than during the year when they turn 16 (unless they have a permission from a parent or a guardian). Individuals may become apprentices, if they find a craftsman who will train them. The respective professional associations develop apprenticeship programmes, while the Council of the Latvian Chamber of Crafts approves them. The length of the programme is determined by the crafts associations, and on the average it is three years. As of the second apprenticeship year, the apprentices often receive remuneration paid by the craftsman or the company.

The journeyman or master craftsman qualification can be received by completing the apprenticeship. To receive the journeyman or master craftsman qualification, the candidates should become a member of a chamber of a sectoral or regional crafts association and pass respective exams. Journeyman’s qualification includes a theoretical and practical (project presentation) part. To take a master craftsman exam, journeyman candidates should have eight years of experience in the respective area.

The Chamber offers a two-month theoretical course to master craftsman candidates. A master craftsman with a completed higher education in respective area is considered an academically educated master craftsman.

The Latvian Chamber of Crafts grants the crafts qualifications, and diplomas issued by the Chamber are recognised.

To ensure better compliance of vocational education with market needs, the Ministry of Education and Science has developed a new apprenticeship scheme called ‘work-based learning’. The Vocational Education Law provides the legal basis for the new approach: ‘work-based learning’ is considered one of the ways of completing vocational education. Vocational education establishments currently offer the new scheme under numerous vocational education programmes.

Compliance

Pursuant to the Education Law (http://likumi.lv/doc.php?id=50759), EU nationals, European Economic Area nationals and nationals of the Swiss Confederation have the right to education in Latvia.

Living and working conditions

The same rules apply to everyone taking an apprenticeship. Non-nationals have an additional requirement to have a conversational knowledge of the official language.

In Latvia, the theoretical part of the apprenticeship is taught only in Latvian. To be able to participate in the scheme, the European nationals should learn Latvian.

Where to find opportunities

Candidates can search for information on apprenticeships and places of apprenticeship on the following websites:

• Apprenticeship offers — https://www.prakse.lv
• Latvian Chamber of Crafts (LAK) — www.lak.lv
• The State Education Development Agency — the Latvian agency for Erasmus+ school education, adult education, vocational education and training, and higher education: http://viaa.gov.lv/eng
• The Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry: www.chamber.lv

Financing and support

There are no official provisions for remuneration for apprentices, but master craftsmen or enterprises may pay remuneration to apprentices or reimburse some of their expenses on a voluntary basis.

Where to advertise opportunities

Employers can offer and advertise apprenticeships at https://www.prakse.lv, www.erasmusintern.org and use opportunities offered by the State Employment Agency.

Financing and support

Employers can contact the Latvian Chamber of Crafts (LAK) – www.lak.lv – for information on support for apprenticeships.

The free movement of goods is one of the cornerstones of the European Single Market.

The removal of national barriers to the free movement of goods within the EU is one of the principles enshrined in the EU Treaties. From a traditionally protectionist starting point, the countries of the EU have continuously been lifting restrictions to form a ‘common’ or single market. This commitment to create a European trading area without frontiers has led to the creation of more wealth and new jobs, and has globally established the EU as a world trading player alongside the United States and Japan.

Despite Europe’s commitment to breaking down all internal trade barriers, not all sectors of the economy have been harmonised. The European Union decided to regulate at a European level sectors which might impose a higher risk for Europe’s citizens – such as pharmaceuticals or construction products. The majority of products (considered a ‘lower risk’) are subject to the application of the so-called principle of mutual recognition, which means that essentially every product legally manufactured or marketed in one of the Member States can be freely moved and traded within the EU internal market.

Limits to the free movement of goods

The EU Treaty gives Member States the right to set limits to the free movement of goods when there is a specific common interest such as protection of the environment, citizens’ health, or public policy, to name a few. This means for example that if the import of a product is seen by a Member State’s national authorities as a potential threat to public health, public morality or public policy, it can deny or restrict access to its market. Examples of such products are genetically modified food or certain energy drinks.

Even though there are generally no limitations for the purchase of goods in another Member State, as long as they are for personal use, there is a series of European restrictions for specific categories of products, such as alcohol and tobacco.

Free movement of capital

Another essential condition for the functioning of the internal market is the free movement of capital. It is one of the four basic freedoms guaranteed by EU legislation and represents the basis of the integration of European financial markets. Europeans can now manage and invest their money in any EU Member State.

The liberalisation of capital markets has marked a crucial point in the process of economic and monetary integration in the EU. It was the first step towards the establishment of our European Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) and the common currency, the Euro.

Advantage

The principle of the free movement of capital not only increases the efficiency of financial markets within the Union, it also brings a series of advantages to EU citizens. Individuals can carry out a broad number of financial operations within the EU without major restrictions. For instance, individuals with few restrictions can

1. easily open a bank account,
2. buy shares
3. invest, or
4. purchase real estate

in another Member State. EU Companies can invest in, own and manage other European enterprises.

Exceptions

Certain exceptions to this principle apply both within the Member States and with third countries. They are mainly related to taxation, prudential supervision, public policy considerations, money laundering and financial sanctions agreed under the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy.

The European Commission is continuing to work on the completion of the free market for financial services, by implementing new strategies for financial integration in order to make it even easier for citizens and companies to manage their money within the EU.

Upon arrival in Latvia, for a short period of time you can stay in hotels or hostels until you find a permanent place to live. For information, see: www.latvia.travel/lv/lapa/naksnosanas-vietas

If you would like to rent a flat or a house, check advertisements in the press, on the internet (www.ss.com;www.reklama.lv/lv; www.city24.lv;) or with real estate agencies (www.incity.lv; www.niss.lv; https://www.arcoreal.lv; www.kivi.lv; www.latio.lv; www.ober-haus.lv; www.rentinriga.lv). You can also visit www.1188.lv ‘Enterprises’→‘Real Estate’ section, where you will find a list of real estate agencies in the whole of Latvia. Various advertisements can also be found in social media, including about rental or sales of homes, etc.

You may also contact a local authority to check if housing owned by the local authority is available for rent; however, housing of local authorities is mainly available only in small towns and villages.

The rental agreement should be signed in writing and should cover all key aspects: price, duration, terms of use, repair costs, pets, etc. The rental agreement may be signed for up to 10 years as indefinite agreements are not allowed according to the law. A security deposit may not exceed the cost of 2 months’ rent. The legal relationships between tenants and landlords are governed by the Residential Tenancy Law.

On the average, apartment rental in the capital usually costs EUR 250–550 per month, and this amount usually does not include utilities (water, electricity, gas, internet, phone, etc.). The price depends on the size, condition, and location of the apartment; the proprietor may also request an advance.

The cost of renting an apartment in other cities of Latvia is normally lower than in Riga, but will usually be no less than EUR 70 a month. You should remember that owners may request payment of the rent in advance (1–3 months).

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Nursery schools

The local authority usually provides nursery school classes; however, their availability is sometimes limited in the larger cities.

Information regarding nursery schools and vacancies can be obtained from the municipal board of education or the local authority https://www.izm.gov.lv/lv/valstspilsetu-un-novadu-izglitibas-parvalzu-v…. An education officer registers the child on a waiting list for admission to a pre-school education establishment after the parents have submitted all the documents required. The parents must pay for the child’s meals at the pre-school education establishment, except in cases where special exemptions are granted (e.g. for large families). The daily cost is normally between EUR 2 and EUR 4 for breakfast, lunch and an afternoon meal.

There are also private crèches and nurseries available for the children of employees of certain companies in Latvia.

Pre-school, primary and secondary education institutions

Local authorities provide school-age children living in their administrative area with places in educational institutions for pre-school, general primary and secondary education.

Information about schools and free places at city or municipality schools can be obtained from the education boards of the respective cities or municipalities, or from local authorities.

Primary education is mandatory in Latvia and the duration of the study programme is 9 years.

General secondary education is not mandatory in Latvia. General secondary education programmes are taught at secondary schools and grammar schools, as well as night (shift) schools and schools for remote learning.

Vocational education institutions

Following completion of primary education, vocational education can be acquired through vocational secondary education programmes or vocational training programmes. Depending on the educational curricula they offer, professional (vocational) education institutions accept individuals who have completed primary, vocational or secondary education, and may even accept individuals without the above educational qualifications.

Pupils are accepted for professional secondary education programmes after having completed a general or professional primary education.

Educational institutions accept pupils on a competitive basis, by evaluating the results of subject assessments indicated in educational documents. Educational institutions accept individuals with disabilities, orphans and children without parental support outside the competitive framework. Students can receive state-subsidised scholarships. The minimum amount of a scholarship is EUR 15 and the maximum amount is EUR 150. A higher scholarship depends on academic results, attendance, social activities, etc.

Higher education institutions

Admission to study programmes takes place on competitive basis. A higher education institution may stipulate additional requirements relating to special prior education, in particular suitability and willingness (for example in art, music, or sport).

The state determines the number of places for students in higher education institutions that are state-funded. In educational institutions that are not funded by the state, the students must pay for their tuition, and sign a respective agreement with the tertiary education institution.

For additional information about the education system in Latvia, the available support and other relevant information, please see the homepage of the Ministry of Education and Science: www.izm.gov.lv

Education programmes and establishment can be best searched in the National Education Opportunities database www.niid.lv

If the education is completed in another country and you wish to continue learning in Latvia, please contact the Academic Information Centre to receive advice about the procedure for recognising diplomas and when it is needed: http://www.aic.lv/portal/arvalstu-diplomu-atzisana.

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The implementation of the principle of free movement of people, is one of the cornerstones of our European construction, has meant the introduction a series of practical rules to ensure that citizens can travel freely and easily to any Member State of the European Union. Travelling across the EU with one’s car has become a lot less problematic. The European Commission has set a series of common regulations governing the mutual recognition of driving licences, the validity of car insurance, and the possibility of registering your car in a host country.

Your driving licence in the EU

The EU has introduced a harmonised licence model and further minimum requirements for obtaining a licence. This should help to keep unsafe drivers off Europe's roads - wherever they take their driving test.

Since 19 January 2013, all driving licences issued by EU countries have the same look and feel. The licences are printed on a piece of plastic that has the size and shape of a credit card.

Harmonised administrative validity periods for the driving licence document have been introduced which are between 10 and 15 years for motorcycles and passenger cars. This enables the authorities to regularly update the driving licence document with new security features that will make it harder to forge or tamper ­- so unqualified or banned drivers will find it harder to fool the authorities, in their own country or elsewhere in the EU.

The new European driving licence is also protecting vulnerable road users by introducing progressive access for motorbikes and other powered two-wheelers. The "progressive access" system means that riders will need experience with a less powerful bike before they go on to bigger machines. Mopeds will also constitute a separate category called AM.

You must apply for a licence in the country where you usually or regularly live. As a general rule, it is the country where you live for at least 185 days each calendar year because of personal or work-related ties.

If you have personal/work-related ties in 2 or more EU countries, your place of usual residence is the place where you have personal ties, as long as you go back regularly. You don't need to meet this last condition if you are living in an EU country to carry out a task for a fixed period of time.

If you move to another EU country to go to college or university, your place of usual residence doesn't change. However, you can apply for a driving licence in your host country if you can prove you have been studying there for at least 6 months.

Registering your car in the host country

If you move permanently to another EU country and take your car with you, you should register your car and pay car-related taxes in your new country.

There are no common EU rules on vehicle registration and related taxes. Some countries have tax-exemption rules for vehicle registration when moving with the car from one country to another permanently.

To benefit from a tax exemption, you must check the applicable deadlines and conditions in the country you wish to move to.

Check the exact rules and deadlines with the national authorities: https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/vehicles/registration/registration-abroad/index_en.htm 

Car Insurance

EU citizens can insure their car in any EU country, as long as the chosen insurance company is licensed by the host national authority to issue the relevant insurance policies. A company based in another Member State is entitled sell a policy for compulsory civil liability only if certain conditions are met. Insurance will be valid throughout the Union, no matter where the accident takes place.

Taxation

Value Added Tax or VAT on motor vehicles is ordinarily paid in the country where the car is purchased, although under certain conditions, VAT is paid in the country of destination.
More information on the rules which apply when a vehicle is acquired in one EU Member State and is intended to be registered in another EU Member State is available on this link https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/vehicles/registration/taxes-abroad/index_en.htm.

Arrival to Latvia

Citizens of the European Union (EU) Member States or of the European Economic Area (EEA) countries and Switzerland, and their family members who have been issued a valid EU/EEA citizen or family member residence permit in an EU/EEA state have the right to enter Latvia if they have a valid travel document.

Work in Latvia

In order to work in Latvia, a national of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland is not required to have a work permit, and has free access to the labour market in Latvia.

Employers register each employee with the State Revenue Service (SRS) by submitting information about them.

People with long-term employment in Latvia can benefit from tax allowances for dependents and a non-taxable minimum in the same way as local workers. More information is available from the State Revenue Service: https://www.vid.gov.lv/lv.

Staying in Latvia

If a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, or members of their family wish to stay in Latvia for more than three months starting from the first day of entry, they must register with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs to receive a residence registration certificate (information for EU/EEA citizens in Latvian https://www.pmlp.gov.lv/lv/eseez-pilsoniem and in English https://www.pmlp.gov.lv/en/entry-citizens-union-and-their-family-members.

If the Union national resides in Latvia to start employment, this person may stay in Latvia for 6 months per year or longer without residence registration if there are grounds to believe that they may find a job.

Pursuant to the Law on Registration of Residence, anyone changing their place of residence must register the new residence with the residence registration authority within 1 month of moving.  It is possible to register a residence with the local authority where the new residence is located, or register it electronically on the www.latvija.lv portal. A citizen of an EU/EEA Member State or Switzerland or a member of his/her family that has received a residence registration certificate or a permanent residence certificate must register his/her residence with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs.

If a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland has been continuously residing in Latvia for 5 years, they may request a permanent residence certificate of the Union citizen.

Individuals without EU/EEA or Swiss citizenship are entitled to apply for the status of a permanent resident of the EU in Latvia after residing in Latvia for a period of 5 years https://www.pmlp.gov.lv/en/long-term-resident-status-european-community-latvia.

Additional information can be found on the homepage of the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs: www.pmlp.gov.lv

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Before you come to Latvia make sure you can answer the following questions:

Do I have a valid travel document?

Prior to entering Latvia, check that your personal identification document will be valid for the entire planned stay in Latvia.

Do I have a European health insurance card (EHIC) or another form of health insurance?

You can receive the European health insurance card from the competent institution in your home country. If you start working in Latvia, you can receive the EHIC free of charge from the National Health Service of Latvia:www.vmnvd.gov.lv

Please note that an EHIC guarantees emergency medical assistance and the necessary treatment in institutions that provide state-guaranteed medical care.

You may also need various medical documents (e.g. a vaccination passport, medical certificates, medical history). They are especially useful if you need to continue treatment and in order to give your doctor in Latvia an idea of your medical history.

Do I have a place to stay?

For information about temporary accommodation, see: www.allhotels.lv (information about hotels and hostels in Latvia).

Long-term accommodation can be found in the printed media, by relying on services of real estate agents, or private contacts, as well as online (for example, on advertising sites: www.ss.com, www.reklama.lv, etc.).

Do I have the required European social security documents?

If you wish to continue receiving unemployment benefits granted by your home country while you are looking for a job in Latvia, you will need a U2 unemployment benefit export certificate issued by the competent authority in your home country.

To maintain your right to benefits in Latvia, your insurance or employment periods accrued in another Member State may be taken into account. To have your insurance or employment periods aggregated, you will need a U1 certificate issued by the competent authority in your home country.

The State Social Insurance Agency is the body responsible for coordinating European social insurance issues in Latvia: https://www.vsaa.gov.lv/lv.

Do I know about the working conditions in Latvia and how employment contracts are concluded?

Before a person can start working, the employer and employee must conclude a written employment contract. Employment contracts are usually concluded for an indefinite term, except in specific cases.

Information on employment rights can be found on the homepage of the State Labour Inspectorate: https://www.vdi.gov.lv/lv

Is my education suitable for work in Latvia?

Employer evaluates if your professional and academic education is suitable for the job, but if you wish to work in Latvia in a regulated profession, for example, as a physician, engineer, teacher, etc., you must have your education documents and qualifications recognised before starting the work. Such recognition can be granted by the Academic Information Centre: https://aic.lv, where a list of professions regulated in Latvia can also be found.

Do I have adequate knowledge of the Latvian language?

Latvian is the state (official) language in Latvia, and it is used in all state institutions and in most workplaces. Knowledge of English or German may also be advantageous.

If you wish to learn Latvian or improve your Latvian language skills, visit the website of the Latvian Language Agency: https://maciunmacies.valoda.lv

The registered unemployed may approach the State Employment Agency about a possibility of signing up for a Latvian language course (see https://www.nva.gov.lv/lv/prasmju-apguve). You may also ask the local council about an opportunity to learn the official language.

Other things to do before going to Latvia

• Please inform all organisations where you are registered or where you submitted your personal information, e.g. the register of residents, your local authority, employment service, bank, road traffic department, postal service, provider of health services, provider of utility services, etc. This will help avoid potential misunderstandings in the future.
• Take your driving licence with you. A driving licence issued in an EU Member State is valid for driving in other EU member States, including Latvia.
• If you have children in your family, before leaving please make sure that you have all necessary documents that prove education and healthcare received by your children, as well as granted social benefits, etc. You should also notify the competent authority (responsible for the payment of family benefits) in the country of residence that you move to Latvia. Detailed information is available on the VSAA website https://www.vsaa.gov.lv in the section ‘Family benefits in the EU’

After arriving to Latvia:

• Citizens of EU/EEA countries must register with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs and receive a residence registration certificate if you wish to stay in Latvia for more than 3 months: https://www.pmlp.gov.lv.
  Citizens of Latvia can register a residence with the local authority where the new residence is located, or register it electronically on the www.latvija.lv portal. A citizen of an EU/EEA Member State or Switzerland or a member of his/her family that has received a residence registration certificate or a permanent residence certificate must register his/her residence with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs.
• If you are looking for a job and want assistance or wish to export unemployment benefits to Latvia, you must register with the State Employment Agency: https://www.nva.gov.lv/lv
• When starting a job, an employee (who is a Latvian tax resident) must submit the electronic payroll tax bookletvia the SRS Electronic Declaration System (EDS) or submit it at the SRS Customer Service Centre in person. Employers must submit data on each employee who starts work to the State Revenue Service (SRS) to register them with the SRS.
• In order to receive healthcare, please, register with the general practitioner. Information about general practitioners working in your municipality or city is available from the National Health Service https://www.vmnvd.gov.lv/lv.
• If you have received the S1 healthcare form abroad, you should register it at the National Health Service. This form is invalid without registration.
• If you are a Latvian national who wants to return to Latvia, read information about remigration in the section If you want to return to Latvia on the NVA website.

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Quality of work and employment - a vital issue, with a strong economic and humanitarian impact

Good working conditions are important for the well-being of European workers. They

• contribute to the physical and psychological welfare of Europeans, and
• contribute to the economic performance of the EU.

From a humanitarian point of view, the quality of working environment has a strong influence on the overall work and life satisfaction of European workers.

From an economic point of view, high-quality job conditions are a driving force of economic growth and a foundation for the competitive position of the European Union. A high level of work satisfaction is an important factor for achieving high productivity of the EU economy.

It is therefore a core issue for the European Union to promote the creation and maintenance of a sustainable and pleasant working environment – one that promotes health and well-being of European employees and creates a good balance between work and non-work time.

Improving working conditions in Europe: an important objective for the European Union.

Ensuring favourable working conditions for European citizens is a priority for the EU. The European Union is therefore working together with national governments to ensure a pleasant and secure workplace environment. Support to Member States is provided through:

• the exchange of experience between different countries and common actions
• the establishment of the minimum requirements on working conditions and health and safety at work, to be applied all over the European Union

Criteria for quality of work and employment

In order to achieve sustainable working conditions, it is important to determine the main characteristics of a favourable working environment and thus the criteria for the quality of working conditions.

The European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound) in Dublin, is an EU agency that provides information, advice and expertise on, as the name implies, living and working conditions. This agency has established several criteria for job and employment quality, which include:

• health and well-being at the workplace – this is a vital criteria, since good working conditions suppose the prevention of health problems at the work place, decreasing the exposure to risk and improving work organisation
• reconciliation of working and non-working life – citizens should be given the chance to find a balance between the time spent at work and at leisure
• skills development – a quality job is one that gives possibilities for training, improvement and career opportunities

The work of Eurofound contributes to the planning and design of better living and working conditions in Europe.

Health and safety at work

The European Commission has undertaken a wide scope of activities to promote a healthy working environment in the EU Member States. Amongst others, it developed a Community Strategy for Health and Safety at Work for the period 2021-2027. This strategy was set up with the help of national authorities, social partners and NGOs. It addresses the changing needs in worker’s protection brought by the digital and green transitions, new forms of work and the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, the framework will continue to address traditional occupational safety and health risks, such as risks of accidents at work or exposure to hazardous chemicals.

The Community policy on health and safety at work aims at a long-lasting improvement of well-being of EU workers. It takes into account the physical, moral and social dimensions of working conditions, as well as the new challenges brought up by the enlargement of the European Union towards countries from Central and Eastern Europe. The introduction of EU standards for health and safety at the workplace, has contributed a lot to the improvement of the situation of workers in these countries.

Improving working conditions by setting minimum requirements common to all EU countries

Improving living and working conditions in the EU Member States depends largely on the establishment of common labour standards. EU labour laws and regulations have set the minimum requirements for a sustainable working environment and are now applied in all Member States. The improvement of these standards has strengthened workers’ rights and is one of the main achievements of the EU’s social policy.

The importance of transparency and mutual recognition of diplomas as a crucial complement to the free movement of workers

The possibility of obtaining recognition of one’s qualifications and competences can play a vital role in the decision to take up work in another EU country. It is therefore necessary to develop a European system that will guarantee the mutual acceptance of professional competences in different Member States. Only such a system will ensure that a lack of recognition of professional qualifications will not become an obstacle to workers’ mobility within the EU.

Main principles for the recognition of professional qualifications in the EU

As a basic principle, any EU citizen should be able to freely practice their profession in any Member State. Unfortunately the practical implementation of this principle is often hindered by national requirements for access to certain professions in the host country.

For the purpose of overcoming these differences, the EU has set up a system for the recognition of professional qualifications. Within the terms of this system, a distinction is made between regulated professions (professions for which certain qualifications are legally required) and professions that are not legally regulated in the host Member State.

Steps towards a transparency of qualifications in Europe

The European Union has taken important steps towards the objective of achieving transparency of qualifications in Europe:

• An increased co-operation in vocational education and training, with the intention to combine all instruments for transparency of certificates and diplomas, in one single, user-friendly tool. This includes, for example, the European CV or Europass Trainings.
• The development of concrete actions in the field of recognition and quality in vocational education and training.

Going beyond the differences in education and training systems throughout the EU

Education and training systems in the EU Member States still show substantial differences. The last enlargements of the EU, with different educational traditions, have further increased this diversity. This calls for a need to set up common rules to guarantee recognition of competences.

In order to overcome this diversity of national qualification standards, educational methods and training structures, the European Commission has put forward a series of instruments, aimed at ensuring better transparency and recognition of qualifications both for academic and professional purposes.

1. The European Qualifications Framework

The European Qualifications Framework is a key priority for the European Commission in the process of recognition of professional competences. The main objective of the framework is to create links between the different national qualification systems and guarantee a smooth transfer and recognition of diplomas.

2. The National Academic Recognition Information Centres (NARICs)

A network of National Academic Recognition Information Centres was established in 1984 at the initiative of the European Commission. The NARICs provide advice on the academic recognition of periods of study abroad. Located in all EU Member States as well as in the countries of the European Economic Area, NARICs play a vital role the process of recognition of qualifications in the EU.

3. The European Credit Transfer System (ECTS)

The European Credit Transfer System aims at facilitating the recognition of periods of study abroad. Introduced in 1989, it functions by describing an education programme and attaching credits to its components. It is a key complement to the highly acclaimed student mobility programme Erasmus.

4. Europass

Europass is an instrument for ensuring the transparency of professional skills. It is composed of five standardised documents

• a CV (Curriculum Vitae),
• a cover letter editor,
• certificate supplements,
• diploma supplements, and
• a Europass-Mobility document.

The Europass system makes skills and qualifications clearly and easily understood in the different parts of Europe. In every country of the European Union and the European Economic Area, national Europass centres have been established as the primary contact points for people seeking for information about the Europass system.

Minimum age for starting work

In Latvia you may work from the age of 15.

In exceptional cases, children from the age of 13 may, with the written consent of a parent (guardian), while not having to attend classes, be engaged in work that is easy and does not undermine the child’s health and safety, for example, agricultural work, cleaning work, and door-to-door delivery of goods. Such employment may not impede the child’s schooling.

Starting work

Before a person can start working, the employer and employee must conclude a written employment contract.

An employment contract is considered to be concluded from the moment the employer and employee have agreed on the work to be done and the payment for the work, and on the employee’s acceptance from that moment onwards of the terms of employment set by the employer and the employer’s instructions.

An employee has the right to conclude employment contracts with multiple employers, unless the employment agreement or the collective employment agreement states otherwise.

Employment contracts in Latvia are normally concluded for an indefinite period of time. In specific cases it is possible to conclude an employment contract for a fixed term by duly justifying such necessity, for example, seasonal work, work requiring specific time to complete, casual work, project-based work, etc.

An employment contract concluded for a fixed term will state the date on which the employment relationship terminates or the circumstances giving rise to the end of the respective job. The term of such employment contract may not exceed 3 years. An employment contract for seasonal work may not exceed 10 months.

If, upon expiry of the term for which an employment contract has been entered into, neither party has requested termination of the employment contract and the employment relationship effectively continues, the employment contract is deemed to last for an indefinite period of time.

Setting a probation period

Upon the conclusion of an employment contract, a probation period may be set to determine whether the employee is suitable for the assigned work. If a probation period is not indicated in the employment contract, it is considered to be concluded without a probation period. A probation period may not exceed 3 months.

Probation periods may not be set for individuals under 18.

Flexible forms of employment

Latvian employers mostly prefer traditional employment, although there is a growing trend to choose flexible forms of employment such as part-time work, contracted work and fixed-term contracts. Remote work is a form of employment that has become increasingly popular in Latvia during recent years, for example, work at home that gives the employer and employee the opportunity to make working relations more flexible and also allows employees to combine their work with family life and social life and to perform their duties more independently.

Additional information on employment rights can be found on the homepage of the State Labour Inspectorate: www.vdi.gov.lv

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In order for employment to start in Latvia, the employer and employee must conclude a written employment contract.

An employment contract is drawn up in two copies, one copy kept by the employee, and the other by the employer.

The Labour Law provides for two types of employment contracts:

• permanent or indefinite-term employment contracts;
• fixed-term employment contracts.

Employers must normally conclude employment contracts with employees for an indefinite period of time. In specific cases it is possible to conclude an employment contract for a fixed term by duly justifying such necessity, for example, seasonal work, work requiring specific time to complete, casual work, project-based work, etc.

The employment contract shall state:

• the first name, surname, personal identity number and place of residence of the employee and the first name, surname (title), registration number and address of the employer;
• the employment start date;
• the anticipated duration of the employment (if the employment contract is concluded for a fixed term);
• the place of work (if a specific place of work is not designated for performing the duties involved, the fact that the employee may be employed at a number of locations must be indicated);
• the employee’s profession (trade, craft) and a general description of the job for which they have been contracted;
• the remuneration and time of payment;
• contracted daily or weekly working hours;
• duration of annual paid leave;
• the termination notice period;
• a reference to collective agreements and terms of employment applicable to the employment relationship.

In addition to the aforementioned information, the parties may agree on the inclusion of additional information; in this case, the information must comply with the laws and regulations applicable to the employment relationship. Provisions of employment contracts may not undermine the legal status of employees.

The employer and employee may amend the employment contract by mutual agreement. Amendments to the employment contract must be made in writing.

Additional information on employment rights can be found on the homepage of the State Labour Inspectorate: https://www.vdi.gov.lv/lv.

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People under 18

People under 18 years of age may only be employed after a medical examination, and they must undergo annual medical examinations until they turn 18.

It is prohibited to employ teenagers in conditions that pose a higher risk to their health, safety, or moral or physical development, and no overtime can be demanded.

Individuals under 18 shall be employed 5 days a week.

Children from the age of 13 may be employed only for simple work, e.g. weeding and watering of gardens, harvesting and packaging of goods, etc.

Pregnant women and women during the post-natal period

In order to avoid any possible risk to a pregnant woman’s health or safety, the employer is obliged, upon receipt of a doctor’s report, to ensure that the pregnant woman’s working conditions and working hours are such as to avoid any risks. If such working conditions or working hours cannot be ensured, the employer must temporarily transfer the pregnant woman to a more suitable job. After amendment of the employment contract, the remuneration may not be lower than the woman’s previous average earnings.

Employers are prohibited from terminating an employment contract with a pregnant woman or a woman in the first year of the post-natal period and, in the case of breastfeeding mothers, for the duration of the period of breastfeeding, except in cases where the employee has seriously violated the employment contract or the terms of employment without a good reason.

Trade union members

Employers are prohibited from terminating an employment contract with an employee who is a member of a trade union without a prior consent of the relevant union.

Non-nationals

Before non-nationals who are not European Union, European Economic Area or Swiss citizens are able to start working in Latvia, they must usually receive an appropriate permit allowing them to do that from the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs.

Additional information on employment rights can be found on the homepage of the State Labour Inspectorate: https://www.vdi.gov.lv/lv.

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Useful information about starting and running a business in Latvia can be found on the national portal of Latvia https://www.latvija.lv where e-services are also available.

The State Employment Agency offers an opportunity to take part in activities to start your business or become self-employed: nva.gov.lv

The financial institution ALTUM offers financial support to start a business: altum.lv

You can also get support for starting a business, improving competitiveness, attracting foreign investors and starting exports from the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIA) https://www.liaa.gov.lv

Self-employment

If you wish to work as self-employed, you must register as a taxpayer with the State Revenue Service (VID). When you register, you must fill in an application stating the type of economic activity you plan to undertake and provide copies of the documents that confirm that you have the respective skills. You also need to submit a consent from the real estate owner to register the place of economic activity. No registration fee applies. You may also need to register as a VAT payer.

Self-employed individuals must pay the mandatory social contributions (VSAOI) based on the income (profit) from their economic activity, except where the law states otherwise. The VSAOI contributions are calculated and paid on a quarterly basis. The standard VSAOI rate for a self-employed individual is 31.07%. If your monthly income from economic activity is below the minimum wage (currently, EUR 700), only VSAOI pension insurance (10% of actual income) must be paid.

Individual entrepreneurs, founding an enterprise

If you wish to start a business as a sole trader or by setting up a company, you must register your business with the Enterprise Register. It is very important to find out whether the type of business you are planning to operate requires a licence. If your business does require a licence (for example trading in alcohol or tobacco) you must receive one before registering with the Register of Enterprises. The licence for trading in alcohol and tobacco can be obtained from the State Revenue Service. If you plan to open a catering business, you must also register with the Food and Veterinary Service and obtain a licence. You may need to register as a VAT payer with the State Revenue Service.

To be socially insured and enjoy social guarantees as a sole trader, you must complete a registration form at the State Social Insurance Agency to register as a voluntary member of the state social insurance scheme and make your own social insurance contributions. If your company is going to employ people, you will have to pay social insurance contributions for your employees.

Both self-employed individuals and individual entrepreneurs may register as payers of the micro-company tax with the State Revenue Service. In this case, you will have to pay the micro-company tax instead of the income tax and the VSAOI contributions.

Additional information on the registration of self-employed persons can be found on the homepage of the State Revenue Service: https://www.vid.gov.lv/lv

Additional information on the registration of sole traders and on setting up a company can be found on the Register of Enterprises homepage: https://www.ur.gov.lv/lv

For more information about starting a business, see: https://latvija.gov.lv/LifeSituations/26116

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In the private sector, an employee and an employer agree on the salary before any work is started. Remuneration in state and local authorities is set by the Law on Remuneration of Officials and Employees of State and Local Government Authorities.

Employee remuneration usually depends on their profession and skills, as well as the company’s business area. The highest remuneration is paid in ICT and finance, as well as to specialists and managers of manufacturing companies.

In 2023, the average gross wage was EUR 1 537 and the average monthly net salary was EUR 1 119.

In Latvia, the minimum monthly wage is defined by the state. As of 1 January 2024, it should be no less than EUR 700 per month for standard working time (40 hours per week). The minimum hourly rate is calculated on the basis of the number of hours worked during the respective month.

Wages differ from one region to another: they are the highest in Riga and the surrounding area, and the lowest in Latgale in the eastern part of the country.

Employers are obliged to pay social insurance contributions for their employees.

Tax and contribution rates for employees:

The social security contributions amount to 34.09%, of which 23.59% are paid by the employer and 10.50% by the employee.

Income of the Latvian taxpayers is subject to a progressive personal income tax (IIN) of 20%, 23% or 31% depending on the level of income.

For more information about the personal income tax rate, see the State Revenue Service homepage: https://www.vid.gov.lv/lv/iedzivotaju-ienakuma-nodokla-likmes

Employers are obliged to pay wages no less than twice per month, unless the employee and employer have agreed on monthly payments. Most larger companies pay wages by a bank transfer to their employees’ current accounts.

When wages are paid, the employer must issue a payslip which shows the amount paid, the taxes withheld and the social security contributions paid, as well the number of hours worked, including overtime and hours worked at night and on holidays. The employer is obliged to explain how amounts on the payslip are calculated if an employee so requests.

Income is subject to an individual non-taxable minimum, which is calculated twice a year. Values used to determine the non-taxable minimum: https://www.vid.gov.lv/lv/neapliekamais-minimums. 

The annual tax-free income and allowances for dependent persons are also applied to residents of EU Member States or EEA Member States if they earn more than 75% of their total income in Latvia.

Additional information on employment rights can be found on the homepage of the State Labour Inspectorate: https://www.vdi.gov.lv/lv

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Normal working hours and the length of a working week

A normal working day must not exceed 8 hours, while a normal working week is 40 hours.

The working week is fixed at 5 days. If, due to the nature of the work, a 5-day working week is not feasible, after consulting the employee representatives the employer may set a 6-day working week. If a 6-day working week is in place, the length of the working day may not exceed 7 hours. On Saturdays, work must end earlier than on other days. The length of the working day on Saturdays is stipulated in the collective agreement, terms of employment or the employment contract.

Overtime

Overtime is permitted if the employer and employee have agreed about it in writing. Pursuant to the Labour Law, employees who work overtime or on holidays, shall receive a premium of no less than 100% of their hourly or daily wages, but if the parties have agreed about a piecework salary, no less than 100% of the piecework price for the performed work.

Night work

A night worker is an employee who usually performs night work in accordance with a shift timetable or for at least 50 days during a calendar year. Night hours are from 10pm to 6am. Employees who work at night, shall receive a premium of no less than 50% of their hourly or daily wages, but if the parties have agreed about a piecework salary, no less than 50% of the piecework price for the performed work.

Shift work

If it is necessary to ensure uninterrupted operation, an employer may decide about the shift work after consulting employee representatives. In such cases, the length of the shift may not exceed the normal daily working hours for the respective employee category.

Working days before public holidays

The length of the working day immediately before a public holiday is reduced by one hour, unless the collective labour agreement, working regulations or employment contract provide for even shorter working hours.

This rule applies to workers for which the normal working hours are in place. It does not apply to workers employed part-time. If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, there is no requirement to reduce the working hours for workers employed during normal working hours on the Friday before that.

Weekly rest periods

The length of weekly rest periods may not be shorter than 42 consecutive hours in any 7-day period. This rule may not be applied if accrued working hours are calculated.

If a 5-day working week is in place, employees are granted two rest days per week; if a 6-day working week is in place, one rest day per week. Usually, two consecutive rest days are granted.

Sunday is the universal rest day during the week. If it is necessary to ensure uninterrupted operation, an employee may be assigned to work on Sundays, giving them a rest day on another day of the week.

Breaks

Every employee has the right to breaks if their working day is longer than 6 hours. A break must be granted after no more than 4 hours after the start of work. The length of breaks is determined by the employer after consulting employee representatives, but they cannot be shorter than 30 minutes. If it is not possible to grant the entire rest break all at once, it may be broken up into parts which may not be shorter than 15 minutes each. Breaks are not included in the working time.

Work on public holidays

Employees shall not be required to work on public holidays. If it is necessary to ensure uninterrupted operation, an employee may be required to work on a holiday, but they must be granted another day off in lieu or be paid appropriate compensation.

Additional information on employment rights can be found on the homepage of the State Labour Inspectorate: https://www.vdi.gov.lv/lv

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Paid annual leave

Every employee is entitled to paid annual leave. This leave may not be shorter than 4 calendar weeks, not including public holidays.

By agreement between the employer and employee, paid annual leave for the current year may be granted in instalments; however, one instalment of annual leave in a given year may not be shorter than 2 uninterrupted calendar weeks.

Cash compensation for annual leave is prohibited, except in cases where an employment relationship is terminated and an employee has not used their paid annual leave.

Procedures for granting paid annual leave

Paid annual leave is granted every year at a specific time in accordance with an agreement between the employer and employee or a leave timetable. When granting paid annual leave, the employer is obliged to take the employee’s wishes into account as far as possible.

An employee may ask for paid annual leave for the first year of employment if they have been continuously employed by the employer for no less than 6 months. The employer is obliged to grant such leave in full.

 Additional leave may be granted to employees if:

• They have three or more children under 16 years of age or a disabled child under 18 years of age.  The duration of such additional leave is 3 working days.
• Their work involves a specific risk. In this case, the additional leave may not amount to less than 3 working days.
• They care for one or two children up to 14 years of age. In this case, the additional leave may not amount to less than 1 working day.

The collective agreement or employment contract may stipulate other cases when additional leave may be granted (for night work, shift work, long-term work, etc.).

An employer may grant an employee unpaid leave at the employee’s request.

Work on public holidays

Employees must not work on official public holidays.

Official public holidays are:

New Year’s Day — 1 January

Good Friday — Friday (March/April)

Easter Sunday — Sunday (March/April)

Easter Monday — Monday (March/April)

Constitutional Assembly of the Republic of Latvia Convocation Day. Labour Day — 1 May

Declaration of Independence of the Republic of Latvia — 4 May

Mother’s Day — second Sunday of May

Whitsun — Sunday (June)

Midsummer’s Eve — 23 June

Janis Day — 24 June

Closing day of Latvian Song and Dance Festival

Proclamation of the Republic of Latvia — 18 November

Christmas — 24, 25, 26 December

New Year’s Eve — 31 December

Maternity and childbirth leave

Women are entitled to maternity leave of 56 calendar days (70 days if the expectant mother has registered for medical screening before the 12th week of pregnancy) and childbirth leave of 56 calendar days (70 days if the mother had health issues during pregnancy, delivery or post-natal period or if she gave birth to two or more babies).

When the maternity leave is over (sickness form B is closed), the employer grants the mother childcare leave.

Leave granted due to pregnancy and childbirth is not included in the paid annual leave.

In principle, a woman taking maternity and childbirth leave retains her position. If this is not possible, the employer must provide a similar or equivalent job for the woman with equivalent working conditions and terms of employment.

Paternity leave

The father of a child is entitled to 10 calendar days of leave. Paternity leave may be granted immediately after the child’s birth and no later than 2 months after the birth.

Childcare leave

Every employee has the right to childcare leave due to the birth or adoption of a child. Childcare leave lasts 18 months, and may be requested at any time until the child reaches the age of 8.

The period spent by an employee on childcare leave is included in their total service time.

An employee taking childcare leave retains their previous job. If this is not possible, the employer must provide a similar or equivalent job for the employee with equivalent working conditions and terms of employment.

Study leave

An employee who is studying at any educational institution while continuing to work may, in accordance with the collective agreement or employment contract, be granted paid or unpaid study leave.

Employees sitting state exams or writing and defending theses are granted paid study leave of no less than 20 working days per year. If an employee receives lump sum remuneration, they are granted study leave during which average remuneration is/is not paid.

Additional information on employment rights can be found on the homepage of the State Labour Inspectorate: https://www.vdi.gov.lv/lv

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An employment relationship may only be terminated in the cases provided for in the Labour Law.

By mutual agreement of the parties

The employee and employer may terminate an employment relationship if they arrive at a mutual agreement. Such agreement should be concluded in writing.

Upon expiry of the employment contract, if the contract has been concluded for a fixed term

The employment relationship ends on the day the employment contract expires. If such deadline is not specified, the employer is obliged to notify the employee in writing about the expected termination of employment no later than 2 weeks in advance.

Termination of employment upon request by third parties

For employees who are under 18, parents, guardians or the State Labour Inspectorate may request termination of employment if such person performs work that endangers their health, safety, or morals or undermines their development or education.

Upon notice by either party (employee or employer)

An employee has the right to terminate the employment contract by giving prior written notice of 1 calendar month, unless a shorter notice period is stipulated in a collective agreement or employment contract. At the request of the employee, periods of temporary incapacity may be excluded from the notice period.

An employment contract may be terminated before the end of the notice period if the employer and employee agree accordingly.

An employee has the right to give immediate written notice of termination of the employment contract to the employer if the employee has a substantial reason which prevents them from continuing the employment relationship on the basis of morality and fairness.

During the probationary period, the employer and employee have the right to terminate the employment contract by giving a 3-day written notice.

An employee can give notice to the employer both when at work, on a sick or regular leave and on childcare leave. This applies to employment contracts signed for both a definite or indefinite period of time.

An employer has the right to terminate the employment contract in writing only on the grounds related to an employee’s behaviour or abilities, or on the grounds of organisational, technological or similar measures being undertaken in the company, for example, if the employee has seriously violated the employment contract or employment terms without a good reason, or if the employee is unable to perform the contracted work due to health reasons, etc.

Depending on the reason for dismissal, the notice period may be zero or 10 days, or 1 month.

An employment contract may be terminated if the number of employees in a company has to be reduced or in case of collective dismissal.

An employer may not give a notice of termination of an employment contract to an employee who is a member of a trade union without the approval of the trade union.

An employer may not give a notice of termination of an employment contract to a pregnant woman; women in the post-natal period may not be given a notice of termination for up to 1 year. If a woman is breastfeeding, termination is forbidden for the entire breastfeeding period. It is also prohibited to terminate an employee who is designated as disabled, except in specific cases provided by the law. Termination of an employment contract is permitted in the following exceptional cases: liquidation of a company or termination on grounds related to an employee’s behaviour.

In cases where employees consider the termination of their employment to be illegal, they have the right, within 1 month from the date of receipt of the notice of termination, to appeal to the court to find the notice of termination of employment invalid. In case of a dispute, the employer, not the employee, is responsible for proving the legitimacy of the termination of the employment contract and its compliance with the prescribed procedure for the termination of employment contracts.

In Latvia, employment may also be terminated upon retirement.

To be eligible for a retirement pension, an individual must reach the pension age and have a minimum of 15 years of insurance contributions. The pension age in 2024 is 64 years old and 9 months.

Additional information on employment rights can be found on the homepage of the State Labour Inspectorate: https://www.vdi.gov.lv/lv

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Employees further their social, economic and professional rights and interests either directly or via employee representatives.

Employee representatives are:

• an employees’ trade union, represented by a union body or an official authorised in the union’s Articles of Association;
• authorised representatives elected by employees.

Anyone has a right to establish a trade union freely and without any discrimination and to join a trade union in accordance with its statutes, as well as a right not to join a trade union.

The fact that the individual belongs to a trade union or wishes or does not wish to join a trade union cannot be used as grounds to infringe their rights.

In Latvia, a trade union is registered if it unites no less than 50 members or no less than one quarter of the number of employees working at a company, institution or organisation, or in a profession or a sector.

Authorised employee representatives may be elected if a company has five or more employees. The rights and duties of employee representatives are set out in the Latvian Labour Law.

Pursuant to the Labour Law, an employer may not terminate an employment contract with an employee who is a member of a trade union without the prior agreement of the respective union, except in cases set out in the law.

In Latvia, trade unions are popular in state institutions. If a union has been established in a particular sector, any employee can become a member. Usually, union members have to make a monthly contribution from their wages.

State Labour Inspectorate

The function of the State Labour Inspectorate is to implement state supervision and control in the area of employment relations and worker protection. The State Labour Inspectorate controls how employers and employees mutually fulfil the obligations specified in employment contracts and collective agreements. Anyone who has questions relating to employment relations or worker protection may turn to this body for free advice about their rights and other related issues.

The State Labour Inspectorate also acts as the Latvian National Focal Point of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work. The purpose of the Agency is to provide the public with information on occupational health and safety.

Additional information on employment rights can be found on the homepage of the State Labour Inspectorate: https://www.vdi.gov.lv/lv

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Employees of companies, institutions, organisations or sectors have the right to strike to protect their economic or professional interests.

Under the Latvian Strikes Act, judges, public prosecutors, police officers, fire-fighters, border guards, employees of state security institutions, prison officers and military servicemen in the National Armed Forces of Latvia may not strike.

Strikes in Latvia have mostly affected the public sector, education and healthcare; they have had little impact on manufacturing and the private sector.

The right to strike may be used as a last resort if no agreement or conciliation has been reached during collective pre-strike dispute meetings. Initiation and announcement of a strike and participation in it is not deemed a violation of the employment law or the employment contract; therefore, such activities cannot be the basis for dismissal. If an employee participates in a strike, the employer:

• is obliged to retain their workplace and position;
• is prohibited from imposing disciplinary penalties on them;
• does not have to pay their wages or make social insurance payments for them unless the parties to an industrial dispute have agreed otherwise.

Additional information on employment rights can be found on the homepage of the State Labour Inspectorate: https://www.vdi.gov.lv/lv

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The term Vocational Education and Training refers to practical activities and courses related to a specific occupation or vocation, aimed at preparing participants for their future careers. Vocational training is an essential means to achieve professional recognition and improve chances to get a job. It is therefore vital that vocational training systems in Europe respond to the needs of citizens and the labour market in order to facilitate access to employment.

Vocational education and training has been an essential part of EU policy since the very establishment of the European Community. It is also a crucial element of the so-called EU Lisbon Strategy, which aims at transforming Europe into the world’s most competitive and dynamic knowledge-based society. In 2002 the European Council reaffirmed this vital role, and established yet another ambitious goal – to make European education and training renowned globally by the year 2010 – by championing a number of world-class initiatives, and in particular by strengthening cooperation in the area of vocational training.

On 24 November 2020, the Council of the European Union adopted a Recommendation on vocational education and training for sustainable competitiveness, social fairness and resilience.

The Recommendation defines key principles for ensuring that vocational education and training is agile in that it adapts swiftly to labour market needs and provides quality learning opportunities for young people and adults alike.

It places a strong focus on the increased flexibility of vocational education and training, reinforced opportunities for work-based learning, apprenticeships and improved quality assurance.

The Recommendation also replaces the EQAVET – European Quality Assurance in Vocational Education and Training – Recommendation and includes an updated EQAVET Framework with quality indicators and descriptors. It repeals the former ECVET Recommendation.

To promote these reforms, the Commission supports Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) which bring together local partners to develop ‘skills ecosystems'. Skills ecosystems will contribute to regional, economic and social development, innovation and smart specialisation strategies.

Erasmus+

Erasmus+ is the EU's programme to support education, training, youth and sport in Europe.

It has an estimated budget of €26.2 billion. This is nearly double the funding compared to its predecessor programme (2014-2020).

The 2021-2027 programme places a strong focus on social inclusion, the green and digital transitions, and promoting young people’s participation in democratic life.

It supports priorities and activities set out in the European Education Area, Digital Education Action Plan and the European Skills Agenda. The programme also

• supports the European Pillar of Social Rights
• implements the EU Youth Strategy 2019-2027
• develops the European dimension in sport

Who can take part? Find out here.

Adult Education and Lifelong Learning in Europe

Lifelong learning is a process that involves all forms of education – formal, informal and non-formal – and lasts from the pre-school period until after retirement. It is meant to enable people to develop and maintain key competencies throughout their life as well as to empower citizens to move freely between jobs, regions and countries. Lifelong learning is also a core element of the previously mentioned Lisbon Strategy, as it is crucial for self-development and the raising of competitiveness and employability. The EU has adopted several instruments for the promotion of adult education in Europe.

A European area of lifelong learning

In order to make lifelong learning a reality in Europe, the European Commission has set itself the objective of creating a European Area of Lifelong Learning. In this context, the Commission focuses on identifying the needs of both learners and the labour market in order to make education more accessible and subsequently create partnerships between public administrations, suppliers of educational services and civil society.

This EU initiative is based on the objective of providing basic skills – by strengthening counselling and information services at a European level, and by recognising all forms of learning, including formal education and informal and non-formal training.

EU organisations promoting vocational education in Europe

With the objective of facilitating cooperation and exchange in the field of vocational training, the EU has set up specialised bodies working in the field of VOCATIONAL TRAINING.

The European Centre for Vocational Training (CEDEFOP / Centre Européen pour le Développement de la Formation Professionnelle) was created in 1975 as a specialised EU agency for the promotion and development of vocational education and training in Europe. Based in Thessaloniki, Greece, it carries out research and analysis on vocational training and disseminates its expertise to various European partners, such as related research institutions, universities or training facilities.

The European Training Foundation was established in 1995 and works in close collaboration with CEDEFOP. Its mission is to support partner countries (from outside the EU) to modernise and develop their systems for vocational training.

Quality of life – on top of the EU social policy agenda

Favourable living conditions depend on a wide range of factors, such as quality healthcare services, education and training opportunities or good transport facilities, just to name a few aspects affecting citizens’ everyday life and work. The European Union has set for itself the aim to constantly improve the quality of life in all its Member States, and to take into account the new challenges of contemporary Europe, such as socially exclude people or an aging population.

Employment in Europe

Improving employment opportunities in Europe is a key priority for the European Commission. With the prospect of tackling the problem of unemployment and increasing the mobility between jobs and regions, a wide variety of initiatives at EU level are being developed and implemented to support the European Employment strategy. These include the European Employment Services network (EURES) and the EU Skills Panorama.

Health and healthcare in the European Union

Health is a cherished value, influencing people’s daily lives and therefore an important priority for all Europeans. A healthy environment is crucial for our individual and professional development, and EU citizens are ever more demanding about health and safety at work and the provision of high quality healthcare services. They require quick and easy access to medical treatment when travelling across the European Union. EU health policies are aimed at responding to these needs.

The European Commission has developed a coordinated approach to health policy, putting into practice a series of initiatives that complement the actions of national public authorities. The Union’s common actions and objectives are included in EU health programmes and strategies.

The current EU4Health Programme (2021-2027) is the EU’s ambitious response to COVID-19. The pandemic has a major impact on patients, medical and healthcare staff, and health systems in Europe. The new EU4Health programme will go beyond crisis response to address healthcare systems’ resilience. 

EU4Health, established by Regulation (EU) 2021/522, will provide funding to eligible entities, health organisations and NGOs from EU countries, or non-EU countries associated to the programme.

With EU4Health, the EU will invest €5.3 billion in current prices in actions with an EU added value, complementing EU countries’ policies and pursuing one or several of EU4Health´s objectives:

1. To improve and foster health in the Union
   • disease prevention & health promotion
   • international health initiatives & cooperation
2. To tackle cross-border health threats
   • prevention, preparedness & response to cross-border health threats
   • complementing national stockpiling of essential crisis-relevant products
   • establishing a reserve of medical, healthcare & support staff 
3. To improve medicinal products, medical devices and crisis-relevant products
   • making medicinal products, medical devices and crisis-relevant products available and affordable
4. To strengthen health systems, their resilience and resource efficiency
   • strengthening health data, digital tools & services, digital transformation of healthcare
   • improving access to healthcare
   • developing and implementing EU health legislation and evidence-based decision making 
   • integrated work among national health systems

Education in the EU

Education in Europe has both deep roots and great diversity. Already in 1976, education ministers decided to set up an information network to better understand educational policies and systems in the then nine-nation European Community. This reflected the principle that the particular character of an educational system in any one Member State ought to be fully respected, while coordinated interaction between education, training and employment systems should be improved. Eurydice, the information network on education in Europe, was formally launched in 1980.

In 1986, attention turned from information exchanges to student exchanges with the launch of the Erasmus programme, now grown into the Erasmus+programme, often cited as one of the most successful initiatives of the EU.

Transport in the EU

Transport was one of the first common policies of the then European Community. Since 1958, when the Treaty of Rome entered into force, the EU’s transport policy has focused on removing border obstacles between Member States, thereby enabling people and goods to move quickly, efficiently and cheaply.

This principle is closely connected to the EU’s central goal of a dynamic economy and cohesive society. The transport sector generates 10% of EU wealth measured by gross domestic product (GDP), equivalent to about one trillion Euros a year. It also provides more than ten million jobs.

The Schengen area

The Schengen Convention, in effect since March 1995, abolished border controls within the area of the signatory States and created a single external frontier, where checks have to be carried out in accordance with a common set of rules.

Today, the Schengen Area encompasses most EU countries, except for Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland and Romania. However, Bulgaria, Croatia and Romania are currently in the process of joining the Schengen Area and already applying the Schengen acquis to a large extent. Additionally, also the non-EU States Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein have joined the Schengen Area.

Air transport

The creation of a single European market in air transport has meant lower fares and a wider choice of carriers and services for passengers. The EU has also created a set of rights to ensure air passengers are treated fairly.

Air passenger rights

As an air passenger, you have certain rights when it comes to information about flights and reservations, damage to baggage, delays and cancellations, denied boarding, compensation in the case of accident or difficulties with package holidays. These rights apply to scheduled and chartered flights, both domestic and international, from an EU airport or to an EU airport from one outside the EU, when operated by an EU airline.

Rail transport

Over the last 25 years the Commission has been very active in proposing restructuring the European rail transport market and in order to strengthen the position of railways vis-à-vis other transport modes. The Commission's efforts have concentrated on three major areas which are all crucial for developing a strong and competitive rail transport industry:

1. opening the rail transport market to competition,
2. improving the interoperability and safety of national networks and
3. developing rail transport infrastructure.

In Latvia, the structure of the state, the extent of its powers and human rights are governed by the Constitution of the Republic of Latvia. Latvia is a democratic parliamentary republic. Sovereign power rests with the people of Latvia. Legislative power resides with the parliament, the Saeima, which consists of 100 members. Elections for the Saeima are held every 4 years and are general, equal, direct, secret and proportional. Citizens of Latvia who are at least 18 on the election day have the right to vote in Saeima elections. Latvia has a multi-party system, and parties are represented in the Saeima according to the principle of proportionality.

The head of state is the President, who is elected by the Saeima for a 4-year term. The President represents the country internationally, appoints Latvian diplomats and receives representatives of other countries, and has the right to sign laws, send them back to the Saeima for a second review, and initiate laws.

Executive power rests with the Prime Minister and the Cabinet of Ministers. The Cabinet of Ministers is selected by the person invited to do so by the President. The Prime Minister and the Cabinet of Ministers require a confidence vote of the Saeima to perform their duties, and are answerable to it.

Judicial authority in Latvia is held by district (city) courts, regional courts and the Supreme Court. Judges are independent and governed only by the law. There is a Constitutional Court in Latvia, which mainly hears cases about the compliance of laws with the Constitution.

The police in Latvia are an armed, militarised force; there is a state and local police.

The main labour market authority in Latvia is the State Employment Agency whose mission is to promote employment opportunities for jobseekers and help employers find necessary employees.

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The average gross monthly wage in Latvia in 2023 was EUR 1 537.

Employee remuneration usually depends on their profession and skills, as well as the company’s business area. The highest remuneration is paid in ICT and finance, as well as to specialists and managers of manufacturing companies.

The average hourly remuneration (gross) per profession is:

• Engineers: EUR 10–25
• IT specialists: EUR 15–30
• Welders: EUR 10–13
• Sales representatives: EUR 9–13
• Warehouse workers: EUR 7–8

Wages differ from one region to another: they are the highest in Riga and the surrounding area, and the lowest in Latgale in the eastern part of the country.

The minimum monthly wage in Latvia is EUR 700.

Latvian taxpayer income is subject to a progressive personal income tax (IIN). IIN rates in 2024:

• 20% for total annual income of up to EUR 20 004
• 23% for the share of annual income above EUR 20 004, but below EUR 78 100
• 31% for the share of annual income above EUR 78 100

Income is subject to the non-taxable minimum and tax allowances for dependent persons. The non-taxable minimum is different for each person and is calculated according to a special formula that takes into account the taxable annual income of the respective individual. As of 2024, the maximum non-taxable minimum personal income is EUR 500 per month.

In 2024, the tax allowance for each dependent person is EUR 250 per month or EUR 3 000 per year.

The annual tax-free income and allowances for dependent persons are also applied to residents of EU Member States or EEA Member States if they earn more than 75% of their total income in Latvia.

All income received from paid work on which personal income tax must be withheld is subject to social insurance contributions. The current rate of social insurance contributions is 34.09% of the employee’s income (if the employee is covered by all forms of social insurance), of which 23.59% is paid by the employer and 10.5% by the employee.

The standard rate of the value added tax is 21%, and the reduced rates levied on certain categories of goods and services are 12% and 0%.

The rate of property tax is:

• 1.5% of the land register value of land, buildings and engineering structures;
• on residential houses — 0.2% of the land register value, if the land register value does not exceed EUR 56 915; 0.4% of the part of the land register value that is above EUR 56 915, but does not exceed EUR 106 715; 0.6% of the part of the land register value that exceeds EUR 106 715.

Excise duty is charged on alcoholic drinks, tobacco products, oil products, non-alcoholic drinks, coffee, natural gas and fluids for use in electronic cigarettes.

Customs duty is levied on goods that are imported from third countries. The applicable tax rate depends on the type and value of the goods.

Annual motor vehicle duty must be paid by all legal entities and individuals who own vehicles registered in their name in Latvia. This tax must be paid in full before a vehicle can undergo a roadworthiness test. Car and motorcycle taxes must be paid to the state via the Road Traffic Safety Directorate before registration.

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The average gross monthly wage in Latvia in 2023 was EUR 1 537.

30–40% of the monthly wage is spent on rent and utility payments. The average consumer prices in Latvia do not significantly differ from average prices in other European countries. However, for certain product groups, e.g. local vegetables, fuel, cigarettes, etc., the prices are comparatively lower.

The Russian invasion in Ukraine has caused price hikes not just in Latvia, but around the globe. The average food prices for non-sale products at the beginning of 2024 were as follows: pork EUR 5.99/kg; sausages, frankfurters EUR 5.50-14.50/kg, chicken fillet EUR 7.50/kg, cheese EUR 11.80/kg, milk EUR 1.25/litre, 1 kg of bread EUR 1.90-3.10, potatoes EUR 0.75/kg, beer (in shops) EUR 3.60/litre. An average restaurant meal costs between EUR 20 and EUR 40.

The average price per litre of 95 grade fuel is EUR 1.72; the price per litre of diesel fuel is EUR 1.68. A cup of coffee in a café or a restaurant – EUR 2.50. A cinema ticket – EUR 5-9. One visit to a swimming pool – EUR 10.00.

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In cities, people mostly live in large apartment blocks. The rural population mostly lives in private houses.

A peculiarity of the apartment market in Latvia is the considerable difference in price between Riga, certain towns and parishes near Riga, and those in the rest of the country.

If you wish to rent a flat or a house, check advertisements in the press, online or with estate agencies. Various advertisements can also be found in social media, including about rental or sales of homes, etc.

You may also contact a local authority to check if housing owned by the local authority is available for rent; however, housing of local authorities is mainly available only in small towns and villages.

The rental agreement should be signed in writing and should cover all key aspects: price, duration, terms of use, repair costs, pets, etc. The rental agreement may be signed for up to 10 years as indefinite agreements are not allowed according to the law.

On the average, apartment rental in the capital usually costs EUR 250–650 per month, and this amount usually does not include utilities (water, electricity, gas, internet, phone, etc.). The price depends on the size, condition, and location of the apartment; the proprietor may also request an advance.

The cost of renting an apartment in other cities of Latvia is normally lower than in Riga, but will usually be no less than EUR 100 a month. Remember that owners may ask to pay the rent in advance (1–3 months). Sale or purchase of apartments is one of the most common transactions with immovable property. The process of acquiring a property is strictly regulated by the law, thus, when any rights to a property are transferred, the seller and the buyer must meet all formal requirements for the transaction to have legal effect, e.g. the right to property must be registered in the Land Register when the required documents (sales agreement, request to register, proof of payment of the state duty and stamp duty) are submitted.

Mortgage is available to purchase housing. Check conditions with banks. It is worth asking several banks for an offer and choose the most suitable.

Furthermore, the state offers support to buying or renovating a home to persons who are eligible for this programme. For conditions, see ALTUM homepage, section Services > For citizens www.altum.lv, or ask the banks that support implementation of this programme together with ALTUM.

Please note that it is possible in Latvia to sell a flat or a house separately from the land on which it is located. Thus, please check before you enter into the transaction.

As to buying an apartment, please make sure that you know if you purchase ‘undivided shares’ or a separate property. It will affect the sales procedure, income tax and other aspects.

To receive advice on purchase of an immovable property, please ask a sworn notary www.latvijasnotars.lv

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Healthcare services are provided by state, municipal and private medical institutions. State-funded healthcare services are only available at medical facilities that have signed contracts with the National Health Service.

In Latvia, state-funded medical assistance is available to nationals and non-nationals of Latvia, as well as citizens of European Union Member States, European Economic Area countries and the Swiss Confederation, who reside in Latvia due to their employment or as self-employed persons, and their family. It is also available to non-nationals with a permanent residence permit in Latvia, to refugees and persons granted subsidiary protection, as well as to detainees and convicted prisoners. Other residents must pay for medical services in accordance with the healthcare facility or specialist’s price list.

Medical examinations are mandatory for people whose work is associated with possible risks to the health of others (e.g. in the catering sector), employees whose health may be affected by harmful environmental factors at work and employees who work in special conditions. The cost of a mandatory medical examination before commencement of work (commencement of employment) are borne either by the person concerned or the potential employer depending on the mutual agreement. The costs of further medical examinations are borne by the employer.

Emergency medical assistance

For emergency medical assistance in Latvia (NMP), dial the NMP service number (113) or the emergency rescue service number (112). These numbers are accessible both from mobile phones and land lines.

In situations where emergency medical assistance is not required, you can contact your general practitioner or call the GP consultation helpline at +371 66016001 (weekdays from 5pm until 8am, 24 hours a day on weekends and holidays, advice possible in Latvian, Russian and English), or go to the nearest accident and emergency ward or hospital admission department.

Primary healthcare

In Latvia, primary healthcare is provided by general practitioners. The general practitioner along with a certified nurse or certified physician’s assistant provides healthcare services to patients at the general practitioner’s practice or the patient’s home.

Every resident has the right to choose a family doctor, confirming the selection by registering with their preferred doctor. Registration is free of charge. For information about general practitioners working in your municipality or city, see the homepage of the National Health Service (www.vmnvd.gov.lv). You can book an appointment with a doctor in his/her practice or electronically on the national e-health portal www.eveseliba.gov.lv The national e-health portal can also be used to e.g. check information about your incapacity certificates, apply for the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), view the received e-prescriptions, receive information about e-referrals and their results, etc.

Each resident may only be registered with one general practitioner.

If you would like to receive state-funded medical treatment and pay only a patient’s contribution, you should find out the following before visiting a doctor:

• whether the doctor or medical institution of your choice provides treatment funded from the state budget;
• whether the treatment you need is funded from the state budget.

A visit to a general practitioner normally has to be scheduled in advance, and patients will be given an appointment within 5 working days of requesting one. However, each general practitioner is available at least 1 hour per working day to see patients with serious illnesses who do not have a prior appointment.

Inpatient and outpatient medical care

Residents may visit outpatient treatment centres to consult with specialists, undergo examinations, or receive other outpatient healthcare services. To receive hospital services as an inpatient, residents may visit treatment centres, which provide healthcare services covered by the state. When a patient receives state-funded healthcare services, they must pay a patient’s contribution.

For an exhaustive list of patient contributions, see the homepage of the National Health Service, section Healthcare Services www.vmnvd.gov.lv .

To receive a state-funded consultation by a specialist, have a diagnostic examination, or be treated in a hospital by paying just a patient’s contribution, a referral from a general practitioner or another doctor is usually required.

Dentistry

In Latvia, dental services, including visits to a dental hygienist, are funded from the state budget only for children under 18 and if the treatment is provided by a dentist or medical institution which has a contract with the National Health Service. Children aged between 2 and 18 can also receive state-funded dental hygiene services once a year. Children aged 7, 11 and 12 can receive dental hygiene services twice a year.

Medical establishments that provide state-funded dental care services: https://www.vmnvd.gov.lv/lv/zobarstniecibas-palidziba

Information about the waiting lists for state-funded dentistry services is available at rindapiearsta.lv

Purchasing drugs

Drugs needed for outpatient treatment can be purchased in a regular pharmacy. Non-prescription drugs can be purchased by visiting a pharmacy in person or online (https://www.zva.gov.lv/lv/pacientiem-un-sabiedribai/zales/zalu-iegade/tiessaistes-aptiekas), whereas prescription drugs can only be bought in person with a prescription that meets regulatory requirements.

To purchase prescription drugs or unregistered drugs, patients must provide to the pharmacy a prescription issued by a medical professional; when buying drugs with an electronic prescription, patients must produce an identification document – a passport or ID-card (other documents, such as a driving licence, will not be accepted).

Prescriptions are issued free of charge, but you need to pay a patient’s contribution for the visit to the medical professional. No contribution needs to be paid if the doctor does not examine or consult the patient. To view information about prescriptions issued to you, you need to log in to the ‘E-veselība’ portal at www.eveseliba.gov.lv; the name of the prescribed drug, the dosage, the date of prescription and its expiry date are available in the ‘Prescriptions’ section of your E-veselība account. A list of drugs paid by the state can be found on the website of the National Health Service.

For information about healthcare options and patient’s contributions, contact the respective healthcare facility, the National Health Service (www.vmnvd.gov.lv) or regional health insurance funds, or call the free helpline 80001234.

If you have received an S form before you left your country (e.g. S1), please remember to register it with the National Health Service when you arrive to Latvia.

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The language of instruction at state and municipal educational institutions is Latvian. Education in other languages is available at private educational institutions and in ethnic minority education programmes. Anyone who receives primary or secondary education in a language other than Latvian should, at the same time, learn the national language and take the state language examination in accordance with the scope and procedure established by the state.

Improvement of professional skills or retraining must be carried out in the official language, if funded from the state or municipal budget.

Preschool, primary and secondary education at state or municipal schools is funded by the state or respective local authority. There are also several private schools in Latvia, which provide education from the preschool level. Private educational institutions may decide about their tuition fees.

If the secondary education certificate/diploma has been received in a foreign country, this document must be submitted for expert assessment to the Academic Information Centre (AIC) in accordance with the Law on Higher Education Institutions.

Nationals of EU Member States and their children receiving education in Latvia are charged the same amount and in line with the same procedures as nationals and permanent residents of Latvia.

Latvia uses a 10-point grading system, with 10 representing excellent performance. The grading scale is explained in greater detail on the AIC website.

The grading scale in Years 1 to 3 is based on acquisition levels (started to acquire, continues to acquire, has acquired, has acquired to an advanced degree) measured against specific results to be achieved in each academic subject. The different levels in the ‘E-klase’ system are marked with letters S, T, A, P.

The education system in Latvia consists of pre-school education, primary education, secondary education and higher education. The overall duration of general education is 12 years and consists of the mandatory 9-year primary education and 3-year secondary education. In addition, Latvia has mandatory pre-school education for children aged 5-6.

The primary education level comprises general primary education (Years 1 to 9) and vocational primary education. The secondary education level comprises general secondary education and vocational education. The higher education level comprises both academic and vocational study programmes.

The Latvian education system consists of 8 levels:

Preschool education (ISCED Level 0)

Children between the ages of 1.5 and 7 attend preschool educational institutions (nursery schools). Preparation for primary education is mandatory for children from the age of 5. Preschool education for children with special needs is provided in special preschool educational institutions.

Basic education (ISCED Level 1 and 2)

Primary education starts from age six or seven and lasts for nine years (from grade 1 to grade 9). Basic education is compulsory in Latvia. When graduating from primary school, pupils must take what are known as centralised examinations; their number and content is determined by the Ministry of Education and Science.

Secondary education (ISCED Level 3)

There are two types of curriculum at secondary education level:

• general secondary (3 years at a secondary school or a grammar school; or an evening or distance learning school);
• professional secondary (1 to 4 years at a vocational school or vocational secondary school). Vocational education institutions offer curricula for all sectors of the economy. Students may qualify for a state scholarship.

When graduating from secondary school, pupils must take centralised examinations.

Post-secondary education (ISCED Level 4)

After completing general secondary education or vocational education, it is possible to attend continuing professional education programmes (lasting 1 to 3 years) or professional development programmes (lasting no less than 160 lessons, which can count as credits towards a professional qualification).

Tertiary education (ISCED Level 5)

A college is an educational establishment that offers first-level professional tertiary education programmes. Colleges are independent educational institutions or study programmes in universities. Regardless of the name of an educational institution, college graduates have an equal status both in the labour market and as to further education, as the conditions for development and implementation of educational programmes are the same.

Bachelor or equivalent education (ISCED Level 6)

Tertiary education can be acquired in colleges and universities, higher education schools and academies.

A college is a higher educational establishment that offers first-level professional tertiary education programmes.

A higher education school, an academy or a university offers second-level professional tertiary education and academic tertiary education programmes.

Study programmes are classified as academic tertiary education programmes (bachelor’s degree 3-4 years, master’s degree 1-2 years) and professional tertiary education programmes (professional qualification 4 years, professional bachelor’s degree 4 years, professional master’s degree 1-2 years).

Tertiary education can be acquired by completing full-time or distance learning studies. There is a limited number of study positions funded by the state in every tertiary education establishment. Students may qualify for a state scholarship.

Postgraduate studies (ISCED Level 7 or 8)

A master’s degree grants the right to continue studies in a doctoral programme lasting 3-4 years. Doctoral study programmes in Latvia are offered in the following fields:

Social sciences

Natural sciences

Law

Technical sciences

Humanities

After master’s studies, it is possible to continue studying for a doctoral degree in a range of fields. Doctoral programmes last for 3-4 years.

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Latvians can be described as reserved, self-reliant, independent and tenacious. To others, Latvians might seem unsociable and uncommunicative individualists, though they need a bit of time to develop trust and friendship. A typical Latvian saying is ‘Runāšana — sudrabs, klusēšana — zelts’ (‘Speaking is silver, silence is gold’).

People love to give flowers as gifts, and this is one of the nicest ways to show your appreciation to someone. Name-day celebrations, comparable to birthday parties, are popular.

Latvia’s inhabitants have a special relationship with storks; for example, if a stork makes its nest near a house, it is believed that the residents of the house are blessed. Many people in Latvia still make home-made wine, beer and cheese. In summer, during the night from 23 to 24 June, you will certainly want to take part in celebrating the Midsummer’s Eve and the Janis Day when the whole night is spent with much revelry, including searching for the mystical ‘flowering fern’.

Latvia is a land of many faiths, with the leading one being Christianity, divided into Lutheran, Roman Catholic and Orthodox Churches, Baptists, Anglicans, Old Believers and other faiths. Apart from the major faiths, Judaism, Islam, Krishnaism, Mormon, Buddhist, and other world religions are present in Latvia. Latvia is also unique in having preserved a comparatively high number of Old Believer congregations.

Latvia is a small but beautiful country with many interesting tourist attractions (the Baltic Sea coast, with sandy beaches in some places and pebble beaches in others, the Gauja National Park, which is nicknamed ‘Little Switzerland’, interesting natural formations found in the entire country, ancient cultural monuments, etc.). In Latvia and particularly in Latgale, handicrafts and other forms of folk art, such as pottery, weaving, plaiting, etc. have deep roots.

Latvia has a rich theatre heritage, and people enjoy going to performances. The song and dance festivals usually held in summer attract participants and spectators from around the world.

Sports are very popular in Latvia, including ice hockey, basketball, biathlon and bobsleigh. You can visit ice rinks, sports clubs and family leisure centres.

Riga can be considered the cultural metropolis of Latvia, with an impressive concentration of scientific, cultural and entertainment facilities. Many museums have become important centres of cultural life, where various public events take place on a regular basis.

A directory of Latvia's museums can be found at: www.muzeji.lv

The new building of the National Library of Latvia, also called the ‘Gaismas pils’ (Castle of Light) (www.lnb.lv) is a unique European landmark of cultural heritage.

To find out more about recent developments and news in this area, visit the portal of the Ministry of Culture: www.km.gov.lv

You will find web pages with information about various cultural events here: http://www.rits.lv, http://www.satori.lv, etc.

More information on Latvia and tourism in Latvia is available on tourist information portals:  www.latvia.travel/lv;www.vietas.lv; www.tours.lv; www.travelnews.lv; www.travellatvia.lv

Details of cultural activities can also be found on local authority websites.

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In Latvia, civil unions are registered by Registry Offices, which are monitored by the Ministry of Justice.

Registry Offices register civil acts — marriages, births, deaths; changes of first names, surnames or nationality; additions, corrections or renewals of civil status certificates. They also issue documents affirming family status for marriages in foreign countries, copies of birth, death and marriage certificates, as well as archival information.

The birth of a child should be reported by the parents within a month of the birth by informing the local Registry Office and presenting a passport or an identification card (eID card), a certificate from the maternity ward confirming the birth of the child, and, if relevant, a marriage certificate. If the parents are married, only one of the parents needs to proceed with the registration; however, if the child’s parents are not married, both parents must be present. Children can be given no more than two names. Registration of a newborn is free of charge.

Find out more about whether the parents are entitled to any childbirth allowance / childcare allowance on the website of the State Social Insurance Agency: https://www.vsaa.gov.lv/lv, section ‘Benefits and complaints’.

For more information about the most important formalities after the birth of a child, see the single state and local government services portal https://www.latvija.lv, section Life events — Family — Pregnancy and birth.

The Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs may decide on granting the Latvian citizenship and a personal identity code, as well as on the registration of a child born abroad or in Latvia in the Population Register.

Dual citizenship is permitted. Children of citizens of the Republic of Latvia are permitted to have a dual citizenship (of any country). If you have any questions about citizenship, send an email to: pastspmlp [dot] gov [dot] lv (pasts[at]pmlp[dot]gov[dot]lv)

A marriage is concluded in the presence of two adult witnesses. An application must first be submitted to the Registry Office along with supporting documents for the wedding ceremony no later than 1 month before and no sooner than 6 months before the planned wedding. In urgent cases, this notice period may be shortened. Marriage registration is subject to a state duty (EUR 14). A wedding ceremony may be held outside the premises of the Registry Office. Detailed information about the procedure, the required documents and other relevant issues can be provided by the respective Registry Office. Latvian nationals and non-nationals may also submit a remote request to register a marriage by signing it with a secure electronic signature and a time stamp.

Non-nationals legally residing in Latvia at the time of their wedding may conclude a marriage in Latvia.

In Latvia, marriages may be concluded by Lutheran, Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Old Believer, Methodist, Baptist, Adventist or Jewish clergymen who have been duly authorised by the respective church. In such cases, the clergyman submits details of the marriage to the Registry Office. The data is then entered in the registry of marriages.

Marriage in Latvia is not permitted in the following cases:

• if the person is under 18 (an exception may be made for a person who is at least 16 and has the parents’ or guardians’ permission to marry, and when the other partner is of age);
• with a relative, next-of-kin, brother, sister, stepbrother or stepsister;
• between individuals of the same gender;
• between an adopted child and their adoptive parent, between a guardian and a child in their care while the status of guardian is still valid;
• if an individual is already married.

A marriage may be dissolved by a court or notary.

Please note that personal identification documents and, if applicable, residence permits must be renewed if, as a result of marriage, a person’s surname has changed (either to the partner’s surname or a combination of the two surnames). For additional information, please see the homepage of the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, or call the info line +371 67209400.

For more information about renewing a driver’s licence after a change of surname, please contact your local office of the Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD) (https://www.csdd.lv). 

A death should be reported to the Civil Registry no later than 6 working days after the deceased passed away or was found dead. Registration of a death is free of charge. A death certificate is issued, but it does not include the cause of death. The cause of death is only recorded in the register of deaths.

Diplomatic or consular representation offices of the Republic of Latvia may also register marriages, births and deaths of Latvian citizens abroad.

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Highways and buses

Latvia has a well-developed network of highways that are connected with neighbouring countries, allowing road transit in all directions.

There are regular bus routes between the largest cities in Latvia.

Buses also travel between Riga and many European cities. These routes are served by the transport companies Eurolines and Ecolines.

You can find information about buses on www.autoosta.lv and www.1188.lv

Riga international bus station information service: +371 90000009 (EUR 0.34/min).

Trains

There is regular train service between the largest cities of Latvia, as well as in the greater Riga.

For information about the railway traffic, see https://vivi.lv; www.1188.lv/satiksme

Air traffic

Latvia has several airports, of which Riga International Airport is the biggest and is located in the capital Riga, 10 km from the city centre. The airport can be reached by bus No. 22, or by taxi.

For a taxi ride from Riga Airport to the city centre, you can expect to pay around EUR 15-30.

There are smaller airports located in Liepāja and Ventspils.

The national airline AirBaltic offers flights to major European cities, as well as in cooperation with partner companies — to the Far East and the USA.

See information about AirBaltic flights on www.airbaltic.lv

Airport enquiries telephone number: 1817 (toll number); or for calls from abroad: +371 29311817.

Ferry transport

There is regular ferry traffic between the ports of Liepāja and Ventspils and several cities in Sweden and Germany.

For information about ferries to Ventspils, see www.stenaline.lv; to Liepāja www.terrabalt.lv

Urban public transport

There is a regular public transport service in the biggest cities in Latvia. City trip tickets can be purchased from newspaper stands or the driver.

An electronic payment system has been introduced for travel by tram, bus or trolleybus in Riga, namely, you can pay for a trip with an e-ticket which can be purchased at newsagent’s shops and, in the case of bus No. 22, also from the driver. It is also possible to buy tickets electronically on the Rīgas satiksme smartphone app.

Rīgas satiksme, the municipal limited liability company of Riga council, provides public transportation services in Riga. You can receive information and timetables for Riga public transportation routes, as well as information about ticket prices and discounts by calling the free hotline +371 20361862 or by visiting www.rigassatiksme.lv

See more information about bus, train, ferry and air traffic in the information portal: www.1188.lv

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