Country Guides

Expat Medical Insurance in Latvia

If you're planning to relocate to Latvia, your top priorities will probably involve sorting out employment and arranging accommodation. Healthcare is often something that gets overlooked, but it's important to give thought to how you'll stay safe and well whilst living abroad. AGB, on behalf of American Express, can arrange full expatriate health insurance cover for your individual needs - and it makes a lot of sense to think about medical insurance before you're in a situation where you might need it.

Vaccinations

There are no obligatory vaccinations for travel to Latvia, though it's a good idea to make sure your tetanus/diphtheria and polio inoculations are up-to-date before travelling to any destination. There's a small risk of contracting tick-borne encephalitis between March and October, but only if you're spending time in forests and woodland areas. A vaccine is available: consult your physician for further advice.

Health Care

Any hospital, health centre (poliklinika) or surgery (ambulance) will provide emergency care, and all hospitals are open 24 hours. Call 03 from a payphone or 112 from your mobile (cellphone) for emergency medical assistance. For short term trips, EU citizens should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before travelling, which entitles them to the same basic level of free or reduced-cost state medical care as Latvian nationals.

Long-term residents with a full residence permit are covered by the Latvian state health care system which is well organised and high quality. State health services are available from medical institutions that are part of the Compulsory Health Insurance State Agency agreement. While it comes at a significantly reduced cost, this treatment is not completely free, so expatriate medical insurance is well worth considering.

Political Concerns

Latvia is a peaceful democratic country. It joined the European Union in 2004. There are no major political concerns or problems that foreigners are likely to encounter.

Other Risks

There has been a recent increase in incidents relating to muggings of foreign nationals. In built-up areas, be alert to the threat of pick-pocketing and other forms of theft. Avoid unlit streets and parks at night, and be vigilant if walking alone. If you plan to drive in Latvia, note that local law states that drivers must use their headlights at all times, including during daylight hours.