Nestled in the Baltic region of Northern Europe, Latvia is a country filled with natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. Once part of the Soviet Union, Latvia gained independence in 1991 and has since transformed into a modern, prosperous nation. From the charming streets of Riga to the lush forests of the countryside, Latvia has something to offer every expat looking to call it home.
Expat destinations in Latvia
Demographics of Latvia:
Ethnic groups
Latvians 56.7%, Russians 26.9%, Belarusians 3.5%, Ukrainians 3.1%, Poles 2.5%, Lithuanians 2.1%, Jews 1.2%, other 5.1%
Languages
Latvian (official) 56.8%, Russian (official) 31.9%, other 11.3%
Religion Overview
Latvia is a secular country, but the majority of the population identifies as Christian.
Major Religions
Climate
Latvia has a humid continental climate, with cold, wet winters and mild summers.
Economy Overview
Latvia's economy is heavily focused on services, with a large financial sector and growing technology industry.
Key Industries
- Finance
- Technology and innovation
- Education and research
- Healthcare
- Agriculture
Major Companies
- Latvijas Gāze
- Windborne Technology
- Rietumu Banka
- R Jenbacher Latvija SIA
- DnB Banka
Culture and Language Overview
Latvia's culture is a mix of traditional Baltic and modern European influences. The country's folklore and traditional festivals are still celebrated with great enthusiasm.
Cultural Highlights
- Līgo Festival: Held on June 23rd, Līgo is a traditional Baltic festival that celebrates the summer solstice. The festival includes bonfires, singing, and traditional food.
- Riga Christmas Market: This vibrant market is held every winter in the heart of Riga, and features food, drink, music, and crafts from all over the world.
- Traditional Baltic Folklore: Latvia's folklore includes intricate embroidery, traditional dress, and vibrant folk music and dance.
- Contemporary Art: Latvia's modern art scene is dynamic and constantly evolving, with a focus on experimental and multidisciplinary works.
Geography and Landmarks Overview
Latvia's landscape is diverse, with rolling hills, dense forests, and beautiful coastline along the Baltic Sea.
Notable Landmarks
- Old Town of Riga: This beautiful historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is filled with stunning architecture and charming cobblestone streets.
- Gauja National Park: Latvia's largest national park, with lush forests, beautiful hiking trails, and stunning waterfalls.
- Burtnieki National Park: Another beautiful national park, featuring rolling hills, dense forests, and stunning views of the Baltic Sea.
- Sigulda: A charming town nestled in the rolling hills and lush forests of Latvia, featuring beautiful castles, churches, and vibrant markets.
National Holidays
- New Year's Day (January 1st)
- Fourth Sunday before Easter: This holiday, known as Latvian Independence Day, celebrates Latvia's independence from Soviet rule in 1991.
- Christmas Eve (December 24th)
- Winter Solstice: Held on December 21st, this holiday celebrates the winter solstice and features bonfires, singing, and traditional food.
- Russian Orthodox Christmas: Celebrated on January 7th, this holiday is recognized by the Russian Orthodox Church and is celebrated with traditional food and drink.
Political Stability
Latvia is a stable, democratic country with a parliamentary system of governance. The country ranks highly on international indices for press freedom, civil rights, and democracy.
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