On Europe’s Baltic shore, in a country with over two million residents, sits Latvia. The Latvian language is the nation’s official tongue. As far back as history can tell, the ancestors of the Latvian people have lived in Latvia. Amber, a priceless natural resource that was sold over trade routes as far as Africa, was the region’s first claim to fame. The original Balts who settled in what is now Latvia eventually split into several tribes, some of which engaged in commerce and fishing, like the Livonians; others engaged in farming, like the Semgallians and Semonians; and still others engaged in plundering and looting, like the Couronians.
Latvia is a little nation in Northern Europe’s Baltic area. Being a member of the EU gives its members the freedom to move around and find employment there. In addition to being a member of the Schengen region, Latvia is a member of the Council of Europe. It has diplomatic ties with 158 nations and operates 34 embassies and 9 permanent posts around the world. International organizations and embassies have offices in Riga, the nation’s capital.
Cost of living
Comparatively speaking, Latvia’s cost of living is lower than those of other, more advanced nations in the area. It is a popular choice for foreign students on a tight budget. Without taking into account income tax and social insurance contributions, the monthly minimum cost of living for an individual is €329.88. The minimum hourly pay is currently €1.933, or €320 per month. Young people and adults working in hazardous conditions are reimbursed at a rate of €2.209 per hour. All employees, both domestic and foreign, are subject to a flat-rate tax of 24%.
Expats in Latvia have access to practically all of the same rights as citizens. Expats with permanent residency status are given the same social protections as Latvian citizens and can relocate anywhere they choose while maintaining all of their rights and privileges from living in Latvia. Only the right to vote and the ability to occupy a post in the civil service that is related to national security are restricted to citizens.
Preparations
Finding a home and city to reside in when moving overseas is the first and most crucial thing for you to accomplish. By looking through Latvian real estate listings on websites, you can begin your search even before you move. Contacting local realtors is the simplest and most practical course of action for you once you’ve arrived in the nation. They can give you a greater selection of housing options because they know the neighborhoods better.
Most foreign rentals require you to pay for your utilities, including power, water, gas, and waste collection. The typical monthly cost for your necessary services in the major cities of Latvia is €200. A 10mbps internet connection costs about €2 per month, while local prepaid cellphone calls cost €0.10 per minute.
House and apartment hunting
In Latvia, foreigners are permitted to purchase real estate. It will be more sensible and less expensive for you to rent, though, because getting one is a lengthy process. The majority of flats are furnished and ready for occupancy, although a larger monthly wage is also an issue. You have the option to select between a short-term rental (0–6 months) or a long-term rental agreement depending on the length of your anticipated stay.
The majority of corporate offices, the commercial market, and the country’s economy are centered in Riga. Due to the malls, eateries, and supermarkets that cater to their daily requirements, it is also where you will find the majority of expats. In Riga, a one-bedroom flat costs €350 per month, while a three-bedroom home costs €600.
If you’re moving with your family, the Jurmala neighborhood, which is 25 kilometers west of Riga, is a wonderful option for you. It is renowned for its expansive outdoor areas and for being the location of the well-known Jurmala Beach. Additionally, there are some educational facilities in the area which your kids can attend. In Jurmala, a one-bedroom apartment normally costs €400, while a three-bedroom home costs €1200.
