Study in Latvia: The Ultimate Student Integration Roadmap

Welcome to studying in Latvia

Welcome to Latvia, one of Europe’s fastest-growing hubs for international higher education, renowned for its prestigious medical, engineering, and business programs. Emerging as a student in Riga or its regional university centers means entering a vibrant, culturally rich Baltic ecosystem. However, transitioning your life to a new country requires navigating a unique landscape of local administrative procedures, strict residency codes, and specific financial frameworks.

To shield you from bureaucratic pitfalls, high non-resident fees, and rental traps, HubStudentsEurope has built the definitive, data-driven integration roadmap. Based exclusively on verified institutional data and official government sources, this comprehensive guide breaks your relocation down into 6 manageable, sequential steps. From securing verified housing and setting up local banking to understanding your strict legal working rights, this roadmap is your strategic blueprint for a seamless academic journey in Latvia.

Road Map

STEP 1

Find your home & Security Deposits

Focus on Riga (where most universities are: LU, RSU, RTU).
-Latvian Warning: Understanding winter utility clauses (which can double the rent) and the requirement for landlord agreement to declare residency (Deklarēšana).

STEP 2

Mandatory Insurance & Healthcare Regulations

- Strict rules from OCMA (PMLP) for Non-EU students: local private insurance must have specific coverage (minimum €42,600) and include medical repatriation.

STEP 3

Mobile Data & Connectivity

- Analysis of large incumbent operators: LMT, Tele2 Latvia and Bite. How prepaid cards work (Zelta Zivtiņa, LMT Karte).

STEP 4

Open your Bank Account

- Critical Non-EU Warning: Traditional Latvian banks (Swedbank Latvia, SEB Latvia, Citadele) have extremely strict Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance rules. Examination fees for non-residents can reach €200 - €300. The strategic recommendation will also be Revolut or a temporary account before obtaining a physical ID.

STEP 5

Address Declaration & ISIC Card

- The official process of declaring the address in Latvia (Dzīvesvietas deklarešana) through the national government portal Latvija.lv and obtaining the ISIC card approved by universities.

STEP 6

Public Transport, Community & Working Rights

- Integration with the Rīgas Satiksme ticketing system (e-talons) for massive student discounts (up to 70%).
- ESN Latvia is the official national network that supports and integrates international students (both Erasmus+ and those enrolled in full-time bachelor's or master's programs) into the Latvian university environment.
- Latvia Work Rights: Unlike Estonia, Latvia has a fixed and strict legal limit of 20 hours per week during semesters for Non-EU students! Violating it leads to the cancellation of the visa.

STEP 1

Find your home & Security Deposits

Securing verified accommodation in Latvia—predominantly in Riga, the country's academic heart—is your very first logistical objective. A valid lease agreement is not just a roof over your head; it is the mandatory legal foundation required by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (PMLP) to process your residence permit or student visa.
- The Administrative Timeline Resolution (The Catch-22): You do NOT need a Latvian bank account, a local personal code, or a residence permit to sign your housing contract. Your International Passport and University Acceptance Letter are legally sufficient for all housing providers. You will pay your initial deposit via an international wire or a global fintech app (like Revolut). Once signed, this contract becomes your official Proof of Housing, which unlocks your visa and local registration.
- Critical Warning on Winter Utility Bills: In Latvia, rent prices listed on commercial portals are almost always exclusive of utilities. Due to regional district heating systems, monthly utility bills (heating, water, electricity, trash) can spike drastically during winter (October to March), sometimes doubling your baseline expenses. Always ask the housing operator for a sample winter utility bill (community bills) before signing.

Accommodation Options in Latvia (Riga Hub)

Direct University Accommodation (The safest option)

LU (University of Latvia): Provides official student hotels (e.g. Prima or Reznas), managed directly by the university, with affordable prices and 100% legal contracts.

University of Latvia (LU) Accommodation for their student hotels: Prima and Reznas.

These two options are popular with students because they offer maximum legal security, but they also come with a rather rigid administrative reality. Here are the technical details, prices and official operating rules:
Location and Connectivity
Both buildings are conveniently located for students, being located in the Latgale district of Riga (on Reznas / Mazā Lubānas iela).

- Distance from the Center: It is about a 20-minute walk by public transport from the old city center (Vecrīga) and the main building of LU.
- Main route: The main connecting line is Trolleybus 15, which has a stop right in the area and drops you off directly at Riga Central Station. Technical Differences between Prima and Reznas
The properties differ quite a bit in terms of structure and internal organization:

1. Student Hotel "Prima" (Mazā Lubānas iela 6):
- It is a 9-story building organized in a system of blocks (apartments).
- The rooms (single, double or triple) are grouped in pairs in a module. These two rooms share a common bathroom and shower. The bathroom is shared by 3 to 5 students, depending on the floor.
2. Student Hotel "Reznas" (Mazā Lubānas iela 11):
- It is a 5-story building organized in a classic hostel/corridor style.
- The rooms are generally double (shared with another student). The toilets, showers and large kitchens are shared in the corridor, being shared by all the residents on that floor.
- Historical Note: Reznas is often booked with priority for students arriving through short-term exchange programs such as Erasmus.

Rigid Contractual Conditions (Basic Conditions)
The University of Latvia strictly controls payments to avoid financial risks:

- Minimum Period: The standard legal long-term contract is signed for a minimum period of 2 months.
- Mandatory Advance Payment: In order to secure your room and receive the accommodation letter, the university requires an advance payment of the first 2 months of rent.
- Zero Cash: The university completely prohibits cash payments. All transactions are strictly made by direct bank transfer to the institution's account.

Ultimate Advantage: 100% Legal Contract
The biggest plus of these dormitories is that you automatically receive the official confirmation of accommodation. This paper is the basic document you submit to the PMLP for the long-stay D visa or the Residence Permit (TRP) and allows you to declare your address instantly, without asking any reluctant private landlord.

RTU (Riga Technical University) or RSU (Rīga Stradiņš University)

For a student at RTU (Riga Technical University) or RSU (Rīga Stradiņš University), accommodation in their own dormitories is the most stable administrative safety net.
Here is the technical analysis, prices and official logistics for both institutions:

1. RTU Dormitories: The Hub on Ķīpsala Island
RTU has an integrated campus on Ķīpsala Island. Their reference accommodation buildings are located on Āzenes iela (specifically blocks at numbers 22 and 22A) and Ķīpsalas iela.

- Interior Structure: Dormitories in Ķīpsala are renovated and organized in an apartment/block system. A standard apartment consists of two rooms (usually a double room and a single room, or two double rooms) that share a short corridor, a bathroom with shower and a toilet. Large kitchens are shared on each floor.
- Prices and Costs: Prices vary depending on the type of room and the degree of renovation:
- A place in a shared double room costs on average between €140 and €180/month.
- A single room (or single occupancy in a double room) ranges between €230 and €310/month.
- Security deposit: RTU requires a standard security deposit (drošības nauda) of €150 - €200, which must be paid by bank transfer before arrival to secure your place. Utilities (heating in winter, water, electricity) and high-speed Wi-Fi internet are included in the rent price, providing total financial predictability.

2. RSU Dormitories: Medical Standards in Āgenskalns and Dzirciems
Since RSU has a massive community of international medical and dental students, the standards of the dormitories are high. The most important locations are:

- Dormitory No. 3 (Mārupes iela 17A - Āgenskalns): Very popular, located in a green area, with excellent tram and bus connections to the clinical hospitals and the headquarters.
- Dormitory near the Headquarters (Dzirciema iela 3): Located right in the university courtyard, ideal for first-year students who have most of their courses and laboratories there.
- Interior Structure: The rooms are modern, equipped with ergonomic furniture adapted for intensive study. There are options of single or double rooms, most of them organized in studio-type modules (private bathroom included for the module).

The buildings have premium amenities: coin-operated laundromats, silent study rooms operated 24/7 and secure bicycle parking.

- All utilities are included in the price, fixed throughout the year (including the heavy winter months).

3. Direct Document Support (Legal Guarantee)
This is the main reason why the Hub recommends these dormitories over the private market in Riga for the first few months:

- Confirmation Document (Official Accommodation): Both RTU and RSU automatically issue an official Accommodation Guarantee Letter as soon as the deposit and first month's rent are processed via bank transfer.

- No Reluctant Landlords: This official document signed by the university replaces the classic contract with a private landlord and is 100% accepted by the PMLP (Citizenship and Migration Office) for issuing a D-Visa and for the mandatory legal declaration of address in Latvia (Deklarēšana). You do not risk being refused at immigration due to a missing clause.

Commercially Managed Coliving Spaces (All-Inclusive)

These spaces represent the most modern, digitalized and "clean" option on the Riga real estate market. Being operated by licensed companies, they completely exclude the risk of fraud, offering standard, 100% transparent commercial contracts.
Here is the complete technical and financial radiography of the two major operators in Riga

SHED Co-Living Riga (Jelgavas iela 8/12)

SHED Riga operates as a top residential complex dedicated to international youth, located in a quiet area on the left bank of the Daugava River (close to the RSU campuses and easily accessible to the center).

- Human Structure & Rooms: The building features over 240 fully furnished private studios (ranging in size from 16 m² to 20 m²). Each unit contains a fully equipped kitchenette, a dedicated office space and a private bathroom with shower.
- All-Inclusive Costs:
- What's included in the price? The rent includes absolutely everything: electricity, hot/cold water, winter heating, high-speed Wi-Fi and free access to the fitness room, co-working areas and large communal kitchen.
- Premium amenities: A rooftop terrace overlooking the Daugava River, a gaming area, a cinema screen for events and a self-service laundry operated via mobile app.

National and Certified Platforms

HousingAnywhere Latvia

- How the protection works: When you pay the first month of rent through the platform, the money does not reach the owner. It is transferred only 48 hours after you have actually moved in, confirming that the apartment exists and corresponds to the description.
- Visa document: The booking confirmation issued by the platform is officially accepted by the PMLP as proof of accommodation (Proof of Housing) for your initial visa application.

City24.lv

- Professional filtering: This site is mainly used by large real estate companies in Latvia (e.g. Latio, Arco Real Estate, Ober-Haus). Real estate agents are legally required to provide you with a standardized contract.
- Additional cost: Renting through an agency on City24.lv can sometimes include a commission fee (komisijas maksa), usually equivalent to 50% or 100% of a month's rent. It's an extra cost, but it guarantees a 100% legal contract.

Address Declaration Obligation (Deklarēšana)

According to the Latvian Law on Declaration of Residence (Dzīvesvietas deklarēšanas likums), address registration is a legally mandatory step:

- Synchronization with Permit (TRP): Just like in Estonia, the Latvian authorities (PMLP - Citizenship and Migration Board) will not issue you a physical residence permit if you do not have an address declared in the Latvian Population Register.

- Contract Trap: Many Latvian private landlords illegally refuse to allow this procedure in order to avoid paying taxes to the VID (Latvian Tax Office).

- Golden Rule: Before paying any money, your contract must contain the explicit written consent clause: "The landlord agrees that the tenant declares his/her residence at this address" (Īpašnieks dod piekrišanu īrniekam deklarēt dzīvesvietu).

Security Deposits (Drošības nauda)

- Value: The standard in Riga is 1 to 2 months of rent as a guarantee.
- Payment Protocol: Never cash. Money is sent only by direct bank transfer to the account specified in the contract, clearly mentioning the contract number in the details.
- Minutes (Pieņemšanas-nodošanas akts): When taking over the keys, a receipt with the meter index and attached photos of all defects in the apartment is mandatory, ensuring that the owner will not illegally retain your deposit upon departure.

STEP 2

Mandatory Insurance

- EU Students: European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) required.

- Non-EU Students: Private insurance with a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 (D Visa) or EUR 42,600 (Residence Permit) is mandatory, including repatriation.

- HubStudentsEurope Recommendation: Use the HelloSafe comparator to find offers tailored to Latvian requirements.

HelloSafe in Latvia Platform & Services: HelloSafe provides comparison tools and its B2B travel infrastructure, HelloSafe Atlas, allowing partners and travelers in Latvia to compare over 40 insurance providers.
Safety Rankings: HelloSafe's global safety indexes have evaluated Latvia's safety profile for international travelers, frequently placing it well within upper regional safety tiers in Europe.
Functionality: Users can access automated comparison tools for travel medical insurance, policy verification, and coverage requirements tailored to specific destinations.

Compare and buy insurance with HelloSafe Latvia

STEP 3

Mobile data and connectivity

To have internet as soon as you arrive in Latvia, the easiest option is a prepaid card (rechargeable). You don't need a contract or documents (passport/bulletin) to buy them; they can be found at any supermarket (Rimi, Maxima) or gas stations (Circle K).

How prepaid cards work (Prepaid Cards)
The Latvian system is extremely simple and completely digitalized:

- Initial purchase: A Starter Kit (Sākuma komplekts) costs between 1.50 EUR and 5.00 EUR and comes with credit included or an active internet package and minutes valid for 7 days.
- Validity: Unlike other EU countries, in Latvia it is not necessary to register the card with your passport. You buy it, insert it into your phone and it works instantly.
- Zelta Zivtiņa (Tele2): It is the most used brand by international students. They offer special packages called "ZZ Visi" or unlimited internet options for 1-7 days for a few euros. Their mobile app is very easy to use in English.
- LMT Karte: Comes with the option "Nedēļa internetam" (Internet for a week) or long-term plans. The main advantage is the stability of the connection in basements or old university buildings.
- Recharge (Top-up): Can be done online on their websites, via mobile apps (using a bank card/Revolut) or by buying a recharge code (čeks) at any Narvesen store or supermarket.

Zelta Zivtiņa (ZZ) by Tele2

Tele2's animated brand is designed specifically for young people, offering a completely digital experience, without hassle and without long-term contracts.
"ZZ Visi" Packages and Internet Options

- ZZ Visi (All-in-One): These are complete tariff plans that combine mobile internet, minutes and national SMS. They are extremely cheap (starting at around 5–8 EUR per month) and offer enough data traffic for everyday use, social media and browsing.
- Short-Term Unlimited Internet: If you need to download large courses, stream or use your phone as a hotspot in the first few days until you install your in-room Wi-Fi, ZZ offers unlimited internet options for 1, 3 or 7 days. Prices are just a few euros (e.g. under 3–4 EUR for a week of unlimited data).
- EU Roaming: Standard ZZ packages also include a data allowance that you can use when traveling for the weekend to Lithuania or Estonia, at no extra cost.

ZZ Mobile App (in English)

- No language barriers: Unlike other public services or utilities in Latvia that may only be in Latvian or Russian, the ZZ app has native and full English support.

- Full control on the screen: You can see in real time how many GB you have left, when your current package expires and activate new options with a single tap.
- Instant top-up: You can directly connect your home bank card or Revolut / Wise account to the app for automatic or manual top-ups in less than 30 seconds.

LMT Karte by Latvijas Mobilais Telefons

LMT is the incumbent operator (former state monopoly) and has the densest infrastructure of telecommunications towers in the country. Although their cards are slightly more expensive than those from ZZ, they offer unmatched stability.
“Nedēļa internetam” (Internet for a week) option

- Maximum flexibility: This is the most popular prepaid package from LMT. For a very low fixed cost (usually around 2.50 – 3 EUR per week), you get high-speed internet with no traffic limit or very generous thresholds.
- How to activate: The package can be activated instantly via a simple SMS with a specific code (for example, by sending the text I to 1688) or directly from their mobile application.
- Long-term plans: If you don't want to activate the weekly package, LMT Karte offers 30-day plans that also include unlimited minutes to all networks in Latvia and the EU.

Strategic Advantage: Signal in old buildings and basements

- Thick brick walls: Large universities in Riga (such as the University of Latvia - LU, Riga Technical University - RTU or Stradiņš University - RSU) hold their courses in historical buildings with massive stone or brick walls.
- Superior signal penetration: Due to the low frequencies used and the density of antennas, LMT has the best indoor penetration in Latvia. Where other networks lose signal (in large amphitheaters, laboratories or libraries located in the basement), LMT Karte maintains a stable 4G/5G connection.
- Laptop Hotspot: If the university or dormitory Wi-Fi drops or is overloaded during the session, an LMT card is a lifesaver, allowing you to create a stable hotspot on your laptop directly from the amphitheater.

STEP 4

Open your Bank Account & Digital ID

Latvia uses a digital identification system similar to the Nordic countries and the rest of Europe, called Smart-ID. However, unlike other countries where you are completely blocked without a local bank account, in Latvia you can also gain access to public services through other government methods once you have your residency documents.

Opening a bank account in Latvia depends entirely on your citizenship. The local anti-money laundering (AML) regulations are among the strictest in the European Union, making opening a traditional account a real challenge for students from outside the EU.
1. Critical Warning for Non-EU Students (Non-EU Warning)

- Huge examination fees: Traditional banks such as Swedbank Latvia, SEB Latvia or Citadele charge an examination fee for non-EU/non-EEA citizens. This fee ranges from EUR 200 to EUR 300.
- Rejection risk: Paying this fee does not guarantee the opening of the account. If the application is rejected for compliance reasons (AML), the fee is completely non-refundable.
- Slow bureaucratic process: Document analysis (letter of acceptance from the university, proof of funds, passport) can take from 2 weeks to a month.

2. Strategic Recommendation: Revolut or Wise

- Fintech alternative: To avoid fees and bureaucracy, open an account on Revolut or Wise before leaving your home country.
- Universal acceptance: Revolut accounts (with European IBAN) are legally accepted in Latvia for paying tuition fees, receiving scholarships, paying rent or receiving a salary (if you work part-time).
- Temporary solution: Use Revolut as your main account. If your university or an authority specifically asks you for a local bank, open a traditional account only after you have physically obtained your residence permit (TRP) and Latvian personal code (personas kods) – at that point, some banks may reduce or waive your examination fee.

3. How does Digital Login and Identification (Banking ID / Smart-ID) work

- Smart-ID system: Like Estonia and Lithuania, Latvia uses the Smart-ID application for secure login to banking applications and government portals (such as Latvija.lv).
- How do you get it without a local bank? Normally, Smart-ID is activated through your bank account (BankID). However, as an international student, if you do not have an account with a Latvian bank, you can activate an official Smart-ID account by physically going to a customer service center (e.g. at the branches of telephone companies or the Immigration Office - PMLP) with your passport and residence permit.
- eParaksts (Electronic Signature): The Latvian state also offers an official alternative called eParaksts mobile. You can apply for it online for free once you have received your physical residence permit (TRP card) which contains an electronic chip. With it, you can log in anywhere and sign legally binding rental contracts directly from your phone.

Opening a Revolut or Wise account outside of Europe (by non-EU/non-EEA citizens) depends entirely on your residential address and the documents you have at the time of application. The two platforms work differently in this scenario:

Wise

1. How it works with Wise (The simplest remote option)
Wise is much more flexible for students outside of Europe, as it allows opening accounts in most countries around the world.

- Step 1: Download the app or go to their website and create an account using your current home address (in the non-EU country) and your local phone number.
- Step 2: Go through the identity verification process (KYC) by uploading your national passport.
- Step 3: Once the account is approved with your home address, you can open a EUR balance inside the app. Wise will generate a real European IBAN for you.
- Usage: You can use this IBAN to receive money from your parents, transfer tuition fees to your Latvian university, or pay a deposit for accommodation before leaving your home country.
- Physical card: You can order it to your home address (if Wise delivers to your country) or you can generate a free virtual card directly in the app to add it to Apple Pay / Google Pay. Once you arrive in Latvia and have a stable address, you can change the address in your profile and order a physical European card.

Revolut

2. How it works with Revolut (Stricter rules)
Revolut only works in certain regions (EU/EEA, UK, USA, Australia, Japan, Singapore and a few other countries). If your home country is not on their operating list, you cannot open an account using your home details.
To open a Revolut account from outside Europe as a prospective student in Latvia, you have two strategies:

- Strategy A: If your home country is supported by Revolut
- You open your normal account using your phone number and home address. You verify yourself with your national passport.
- Once approved, your account will be governed by the rules of that country, but you can change the currency to EUR within the app.
- Strategy B: Applying with European documents (Only after you have a visa)
- Revolut only allows you to open a “European” account if you can prove that you have the right to reside in the EU.
- If you have already received a long-term D visa for Latvia (stamped in your passport), you can try to open the account by downloading the app, entering your phone number (or Latvian prepaid card if you already have one) and choosing Latvia as your country of residence.
- When verifying your identity, you will need to upload a photo of your D-Visa and proof of address in Latvia (e.g. letter from the university confirming that you have a place in the dormitory or rental agreement).
- Please note: If the automated system does not accept your visa as a residence document, you will have to wait until you physically arrive in Riga and obtain your Permanent Residence Card (TRP).

Swedbank Latvia

Is the largest and most popular bank in Latvia, controlling the largest network of ATMs and branches in the country. For international students in Riga, Swedbank is often the first choice due to its excellent digital ecosystem.
Deep Dive: Swedbank Latvia
Swedbank is the leader in the Latvian banking market, recognized for the best mobile app in the region and native integration with the Smart-ID system.
1. Onboarding and Fees by Citizenship

For EU Students: The process is completely free. Swedbank offers a special program for young people called the Youth Plan (for those up to 21 or 25 years old, depending on current promotions). This plan includes:
- 0 EUR account opening fee.
- 0 EUR monthly management fee.
- Free debit card (Mastercard).
- Free and instant SEPA (in euros) transfers.
For Non-EU Students: Swedbank applies strict compliance rules (AML).
- A non-resident document examination fee of EUR 200 is charged.
- The fee must be paid in advance and is not refundable if the bank refuses to open the account.
- Strategic tip: Swedbank recommends that non-EU students apply for account opening only after they have physically received the Latvian residence card (TRP) and personal code (personas kods), as this simplifies verification and may reduce the risk of rejection.

2. Swedbank Digital Ecosystem and Advantages

- Swedbank Latvija app: It is fully available in English and is extremely intuitive. It allows contactless payments with your phone (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Garmin Pay), management of card limits and instant blocking/unblocking.
- Smart-ID integration: Swedbank acts as an official digital identity provider (BankID). Once your account is opened in the branch, your Swedbank credentials are used to activate the Smart-ID app at the "Qualified" security level. This gives you instant access to all Latvian government platforms (Latvija.lv) and internal university systems.
- Contactless payments via QR code: In Latvia, Swedbank customers can instantly send money to other Swedbank users by simply scanning a QR code generated directly in the app, a method widely used by students to split restaurant bills or dormitory purchases.

3. Documents required at the branch
To open the account, you must schedule an online visit and physically appear at a Swedbank branch (the one at the Origo shopping center or the head office in Ķīpsala are the most accessible for students) with:

1. Passport or national ID (for EU citizens).

2. Study contract or official acceptance letter from the Latvian university.
3. TRP card and proof of personal code (if you are a non-EU student).

Citadele Bank

Is the third largest retail bank in Latvia and is recognized as the most innovative local fintech operator. Unlike Swedish giants Swedbank and SEB, Citadele is a bank headquartered directly in Riga and is extremely agile in attracting young people.
Deep Dive: Citadele Bank
Citadele positions itself as a local high-tech alternative to Swedish banks, offering advanced in-app functionalities that compete directly with Revolut.
1. Onboarding and Fees by Citizenship

- For EU Students: The process is completely free through their special X smart package (dedicated to young people between 18 and 21 or 24 years old). This plan includes:
- 0 EUR opening fee and 0 EUR monthly management fee.
- X smart MasterCard debit card with modern design included for free.
- Free cash withdrawals from any ATM in the world (up to a certain monthly limit, usually EUR 750).
- For Non-EU Students: While applying the same strict compliance checks (AML) required by the Latvian authorities, Citadele tends to be more flexible in processing digital documents.
- A non-resident file examination fee of EUR 200 is charged.
- Strategic tip: As with other banks, to avoid the risk of file rejection and loss of the fee, it is ideal to apply after having physically obtained your Latvian residence card (TRP) and personal code.

2. Citadele Digital Ecosystem and Advantages

- Citadele Mobile App: Completely in English. It is the only traditional banking app in Latvia that allows 100% digital onboarding via selfie (for EU citizens holding a biometric passport), without the need for a physical visit to the branch.
- Native Smart-ID & Biometrics Integration: Allows quick login via FaceID/TouchID and works as a recognized activation point for the Smart-ID system, giving you instant access to the Latvija.lv government portal.
- X REWARDS (Loyalty Program): Their debit cards are integrated into an extensive rewards program. Each payment with the card earns you points that you can convert into prizes or substantial discounts at local partners in Riga (cafes, cinemas, bookstores).
- Phone Number Payments and Payment Rings: Citadele is a pioneer in Latvia in the field of payment gadgets, offering accessories such as contactless payment rings or bracelets, in addition to the classic Apple Pay and Google Pay.

3. Documents required at the branch (if you are not applying via the app)
Their headquarters on the Daugava River (Republikas laukums 2.5) is a landmark in Riga, but they have branches in all major shopping malls (Alfa, Spice, Origo). You will need:

1. Passport or National Identity Card (EU).
2. Official acceptance letter from the Latvian university.
3. TRP card (for non-EU students).

STEP 5

Address Declaration & ISIC Card

Once you have arrived in Latvia and collected your Temporary Residence Permit (TRC), it is mandatory by law to officially register your address where you live. At the same time, issuing an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) will open up access to all university facilities and discounts in the country.

Address of residence

In Latvia, declaring your address of residence is a mandatory step within one month of settling in at your new address. Without this confirmation, you will not be able to open a local bank account and will not be able to access public services or local benefits.

How to register?
- Online via Latvija.gov.lv Portal: If you already have a Latvian eID card or have secure access via local Smart-ID / eSignature, you can complete the e-Government service online, completely free of charge.
- Physical (In person): If you do not yet have electronic authentication tools, you can go directly to the office of the municipality (Pašvaldība) in which you live or to the Office of Citizenship and Migration (PMLP). In this case, the physical processing fee is 4.27 EUR.
Required documents:
- Your valid passport or eID.
- Residence permit (TRC).
- Tenancy agreement: This is your legal basis.
Attention: The contract must include a clause by which the landlord expressly agrees that you declare your address there (discuss this before signing!).