Key facts about Latvia

jelgava palace

Latvia - a country in the Baltic region of Northern Europe, is the second greenest country in the world (according to research conducted by Yale and Columbia universitiy (EPI index)).

Official name
Republic of Latvia

Capital
Riga

Money
Monetary unit: Euro (1EUR = 100cents). Most shops, restaurants and hotels accept credit and debit cards. ATMs are common in Latvia and are available 24/7. Banks are open on working days from 9:00 to 17:00.

Living expenses ...
... in Latvia will vary according to your personal requirements and standarts of living, but on average you will spend around 300 - 350 EUR per month on living costs that include:

  • accommodation: 83 - 135EUR (LBTU accommodation)
  • food: 200EUR
  • leisure/other: 30EUR

Weather
Latvia is located in the temperate climate zone and therefore has four pronounced seasons. During summers the average temperature is around +20C degrees, but on some days it may rise to +30C degrees.
Make sure you are prepared for some chilly days in winter as the average temperature is 0C…-5C degrees, but can also drop to -20C! Proper winter boots and a warm jacket are must-haves and will allow you to enjoy this season!

Telephoning 
The country code for Latvia is (00371) + number. The best option for making and receiving mobile telephone calls and messages is to buy a pre-paid sim card and later just recharge it.
Emergency call: in case of any accident call 112

Electricity
Electric supply is dependable: 220 volts AC, 50 Hz; European two pin

Touring (transport) 
In Latvia the speed limit in built-up areas is 50 km/h, outside - 90 km/h. Use of dipped headlights is compulsory day and night.
You can also travel around by using public transport services. More information about the routes and prices can be found here.

Postal Service in Jelgava
The main post office is located at 2b Katolu street. It is open 07.00-19.00 Monday to Friday and 07.00-16.00 on Saturdays. The prices of stamps on a letter differ according to the destination.

If you expect to receive a letter during your stay at the university, use the following address:
Your name
International Cooperation Centre
Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies
2 Lielā Street, Jelgava, LV-3001
Latvia

Student Card
All international students are required to obtain the international student identity card (ISIC). This card is very useful during your stay in Latvia and can provide you with various discounts in theatres, cinemas, etc. The card also gives a discount when a student travels by bus or train within the country and towns. The card is also necessary for accessing the university library and the sports centre. To get the ISIC card, the student must fill in an application form after arriving in Latvia. For more information concerning obtaining the card, contact the International Cooperation Centre.

Official Latvia portal: www.latvia.eu