Latvia

Latvia

Latvia, officially the Republic of Latvia, is a country located in Northern Europe on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea. It shares borders with Estonia to the north, Russia to the east, Belarus to the southeast, and Lithuania to the south. Latvia is known for its rich history, medieval architecture, and vast natural landscapes including forests, lakes, and beaches.

The country covers an area of approximately 64,589 square kilometres and has a population of around 1.8 million people. Latvia is a modern EU member state with a growing economy and strong regional ties.

Key Country Information

  • Capital City: Riga
  • Head of State (President): Edgars Rinkēvičs
  • Head of Government (Prime Minister): Evika Siliņa
  • Official Language: Latvian
  • Currency: Euro (EUR)
  • International Dialing Code: +371

Population and Economy

As of 2024, Latvia’s population is approximately 1.8 million. The country has a small but open-market economy, with major sectors including information technology, manufacturing, logistics, finance, and services.

Latvia has become an attractive destination for technology startups and foreign investment, benefiting from EU integration, skilled labor, and a modern business environment.

European Union and Schengen Status

Latvia is fully integrated into European frameworks:

  • EU Member State since: 2004
  • Euro Area Member since: 2014
  • Schengen Area Member since: 2007

Latvia uses the euro as its official currency and participates in the Schengen Area, allowing passport-free travel to most European countries.

Living and Working in Latvia

Latvia is an attractive destination for foreign workers due to:

  • Growing demand for IT specialists, engineers, and service professionals
  • Moderate cost of living compared to Western Europe
  • Strong EU labor protections and social benefits
  • Rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes

EU/EEA citizens can live and work in Latvia without a permit. Non-EU citizens generally require a residence and work permit, which is tied to a specific employer or type of work.

Summary

Latvia is a Northern European country with a modern economy, EU and Eurozone membership, and Schengen integration. Its strategic location, growing tech sector, and high quality of life make it an appealing destination for work, business, and long-term residence.