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- Visas. British nationals do not need visas for short term private and
official visits to Latvia. British nationals can stay in Latvia for a
cumulative total of 90 days in every 6 month period (January to June and
July to December. Do not overstay.
- Anyone caught abusing the system can be deported and banned from
returning for 5 years. Those wishing to come for employment must have the
relevant work visa or residence permit.
- Passport. Do keep your passport in a safe place, preferably a hotel
safety deposit box. Replacements can take time to issue and cost money. Do
keep a spare copy of the details (photo) page and a copy of your birth
certificate with a friend or relative in the UK. Do enter next of kin
details into the back of your passport.
- Driving. If arriving in Latvia by car do bring your original vehicle
registration documents. Without them you will not be allowed to leave
Latvia with your car.
- Bars. Do not leave drinks unattended in bars if drinking alone or with
strangers. The incidence of spiking drinks followed by, often violent,
muggings is on the increase.
- Health. Do ensure that you have adequate medical cover especially for
repatriation since mot local medical service are not up to UK standards.
Do ensure you consult your GP about inoculations before travelling.
- Dress. Do bring plenty of warm clothing in winter (October to March).
Temperatures can drop to minus 25 degrees with plenty of snow on the
ground.
- Registration. Do register your presence in Latvia with the British
Embassy if you intend to stay for an extended period.
- Funds. All major credit cards are accepted and there are plenty of
‘hole in the wall’ machines for withdrawing local currency using Cirrus
and credit cards. Do bring some US Dollars if you cannot get Lats as
airport taxis with take Dollars.
- General. Do check the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Travel advice
for Latvia before travelling.
- Drugs. Do not get involved in any way with drugs. Penalties can be severe.