Genvisec advises that all travel can continue to Latvia.

 

Crime

 

There have been reports of petty theft and robbery. Beware of pickpockets, avoid unlit streets and parks at night, and be extra vigilant if walking alone.

 

Reports of foreign tourists being charged extortionate prices for drinks or having fraudulent transactions debited against credit/debit cards have fallen considerably. You should, however, remain vigilant. Seek recommendations for bars and clubs from trustworthy sources like your hotel or other holidaymakers. When paying by credit or debit card make sure the transaction is completed in your presence and be wary of attempts to make you re-enter your pin number.  Don’t leave drinks unattended.  

 

If you feel that you have been a victim call the Riga tourism police on +371 67181818 or the national police on 110.

 

Winter Travel

 

Be prepared for extremely cold and possibly hazardous weather if you travel to Latvia in the winter (October to March). There is likely to be snow on the ground and temperatures may drop to -25 degrees Celsius or below.

 

Road travel

 

Drivers should carry original vehicle registration documents when crossing the border into Latvia (including motorcycles). If you do not have these documents, you will not be allowed to take your vehicle back out of Latvia.

 

Take care when driving. In 2013 there were 179 road deaths in Latvia (source: Department for Transport). This equates to 8.8 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the EU average of 2.8 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2013.

 

There is a system called a Co-ordinated Accident Statement for use in case of road accidents when only two vehicles are involved in the accident, both vehicles are fit to continue the journey, there are no injuries and no other property has been damaged. Details of this are available from insurance companies. If you are not familiar with this protocol, or if the situation does not conform to the rules, then you should not attempt to move a vehicle that has been involved in an accident, even if it is blocking the road, until the police give permission.

 

Don’t drink and drive. The legal limit is 0.05% (0.02% for drivers with less than two years of experience). Those found over the limit face a large fine, licence endorsement and probable imprisonment.

 

Using a mobile phone whilst driving is prohibited unless using a hands-free device.

 

Winter tyres are required between 1 December and 1 March.

 

Local law states that drivers must use their headlights at all times, including during daylight hours.   

 

Car theft occurs. Wherever possible use guarded car parks and keep valuables out of sight.

 

See the European Commission,AA and RAC guides on driving in Latvia.

 

Taxis

 

You should use a major taxi company such as Baltic Taxi (+371 2000 8500) or Red Cab (+371 8000 13 13). They are generally able to tell you the type, colour and number of the car in advance. If you do pick up a taxi on the street or at the airport make sure you only use official registered vehicles. These display yellow license plates. Even when using official taxis agree the approximate price of the journey before setting off as reports have been received of some taxis using meters which have been adapted to clock up higher rates. Some taxis operating from Riga airport can charge highly inflated prices.

 

Local laws and customs

Don’t become involved with drugs. Possession of even very small quantities can lead to lengthy pre-trial detention and possible custodial sentences.

 

Drinking alcohol in public is prohibited and may lead to detention and a financial penalty.

 

For identification purposes, you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times. If possible, leave your passport and other important documents in hotel safes.

 

There are on the spot fines for those found travelling on public transport without a ticket or with a ticket which has not been validated. Tickets can be bought from the driver or from shops/kiosks but must be validated by using machines sited within the bus/tram. Additional tickets should be purchased from drivers for large pieces of luggage and/or pets.

 

Money

 

Since 1 January 2014 the currency in Latvia is the Euro.

 

All major credit cards are accepted and there are plenty of ATM machines for withdrawing local currency using Cirrus and credit cards.

 

Health

If you’re visiting Latvia you should get a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving your home country (EU nationals only). The EHIC isn’t a substitute for medical and travel insurance, but it entitles you to state provided medical treatment that may become necessary during your trip. Any treatment provided is on the same terms as Latvian nationals.  The EHIC won’t cover medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment or non-urgent treatment, so you should make sure you have adequate travel insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment and repatriation.

 

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 113. If you are referred to a medical facility for treatment you should contact your insurance/medical assistance company immediately.

 

Passport validity

 

Your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay; you don’t need any additional period of validity on your passport beyond this.

 

The Latvian authorities have confirmed they will accept British passports extended by 12 months by British Embassies and Consulates under additional measure put in place in mid-2014.

 

Visas

 

EU passport holders don’t need a visa for stays of up to 3 months. If you have a different type of British nationality, contact the Latvian Embassy to check whether you need a visa.

 

Emergency Travel Document

 

Emergency Travel Documents are accepted for entry, airside transit and exit from Latvia.

 

Health insurance

 

You are required to have health insurance when you enter Latvia. This must include repatriation costs. Those who require visas for Latvia (other than EU family members) will need to show their policies upon arrival in Latvia.