Please note
Emergency assistance contacts:
- In an emergency, call 112.
You will be connected to the relevant emergency service: fire-department, police or ambulance.
In order to protect yourself:
- Exercise extreme caution if you are approached by strangers.
- Do not become involved in suspicious deals or transactions.
- Before ordering something when in recreation and/or entertainment venues, always check the price list. Be very clear about what you are ordering and make sure you know the exact price before placing the order.
- It is advisable to pay in cash with Latvian currency when in entertainment venues, and to make your payment after each order, rather than paying for everything at the end of the night.
- When making a payment by credit card, check the total amount. It is in your interests to request a receipt (čeku) or document confirming payment.
- Use a marked taxi with a recognizable colour and identification signs.
- Watch your personal belongings and beware of pickpockets.
- The Tourist 24-hour hot-line number is – 22033000.
The following activities are not permitted in Latvia and may result in an arrest and/or fine, and in some instances may constitute a criminal offence:
- Smoking in public places is not permitted.
- The possession of opened containers of alcoholic beverages in public places in Rīga (including on the street or in parks), is prohibited. Violators are subject to a fine of up to LVL 100.
- Public intoxication is prohibited and subject to fine or arrest.
- Harassment, disturbing the peace, swearing in public and other forms of petty hooliganism is prohibited and subject to fine or arrest.
- Driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol (above 50 mg. for 100 ml.) is prohibited.
- Non-compliance with a police officer's legitimate request may result in a fine or arrest. Resisting arrest or assaulting a representative of a public authority constitutes a criminal offence.
- The use of narcotic substances is prohibited. The acquisition and possession of narcotic substances constitutes a criminal offence.
- While in the territory of the Republic of Latvia foreign citizens may be held liable for any violation of the law, the same as Latvian citizens and residents.
- Ignorance of the law does not release an individual from personal responsibility and potential criminal liability.