Erasmus in Latvia: Cities, Education, Study Requirements, Activities, Housing and Universities

Are you planning your Erasmus in Latvia? You’ve arrived at the right place! In this article, we tell you the most important information you need to know about the country, from the best cities to study in, to study requirements, what to do during your stay, information about accommodation alternatives and the best universities. From renowned universities to daily life in its charming cities, we’ll discover how Latvia provides a high-quality education and a unique cultural experience.

Popular Cities for students in Latvia

In Latvia, Riga stands out as one of the most popular destinations among Erasmus students. The capital of the country is not only home to some of the most prestigious universities, such as the University of Latvia, but also offers a rich cultural and social life. It boasts impressive medieval architecture, bustling markets and a lively nightlife scene. Jelgava is another attractive option. This city, located on the banks of the Lielupe River, is known for its university atmosphere and beautiful parks. You’ll also have the opportunity to experience the local culture in a smaller city.

RĪGA Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a sophisticated and quiet city. Many consider it as the jewel of the Baltic countries, as it is the largest metropolis in the area. It has a perfect combination of historical and modern traditions. Its old town retains its medieval style although it was rebuilt in the '90s. Riga is an ideal city to go on Erasmus if you want to

JELGAVA Are you looking for student accommodation in Jelgava? You should know that there are different options to choose from, which we talk about in this article so you can choose the one that meets all your preferred characteristics. We also tell you about some of the most popular neighbourhoods to live as a student and other facts about the city of Jelgava, so yo

DAUGAVPILS Daugavpils, the second largest city in Latvia, is a very interesting destination to consider for an exchange. Located in the southeast of the country, near the borders with Lithuania and Belarus, Daugavpils is known for its rich history, cultural diversity and natural beauty. A highlight of the city is its impressive 19th-century fortress, one of the few sur

Study in Latvia: a guide for international students

Basic requirements for international students in Latvia

If you are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen, you don’t have to apply for any visa or residence permit when the stay is less than 12 months. If the exchange lasts longer than 12 months, you have to register with the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA).
If you’re a citizen of a third country, you have to know that there are some countries from which a mandatory visa is not required as long as the duration of the exchange is less than 90 days. In case of a stay longer than 90 days, and if you come from a country from which a visa is required, you must apply for a type D student visa.
You must have valid medical insurance during your stay. If you’re an EU citizen, you can use the European Health Insurance Card. For students from third countries, you can choose to take out medical insurance with international coverage or a local one.
For the application to the Erasmus, you need documents such as a transcript of the last academic record, a letter of motivation and the Learning Agreement filled out. All of these must be in English.
Proof that you have a sufficient level of English to be able to follow classes during the exchange is usually required. The level that’s usually required, as a minimum, is a B1, although this tends to vary between universities and faculties.

Why study in Latvia?

First, the quality of education in the country is outstanding, with internationally recognized universities and a wide range of academic programs in English. This provides students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in a diverse and high-quality educational environment.

Latvia has a rich history and culture reflected in its medieval cities, stunning architecture and folklore. This allows students to explore this unique cultural heritage.

Another reason is that the cost of living in this country is usually affordable compared to other European destinations. Thanks to this, you can enjoy all that the country has to offer economically.

Finally, Latvia is known for its welcoming and safe atmosphere. Locals are often very friendly to foreigners, which makes it easy for students coming from other parts of the world to adapt.

Best things to do in Latvia as a student

Studying in Latvia is like taking a step back in time, especially in places like Riga. The old town of Riga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historical treasure trove of cobblestone streets, medieval churches and art nouveau architecture. In addition, Riga Castle and the Museum of the Occupation offer a poignant perspective on the country's recent history. You can immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the country by exploring historical sites and attending cultural events.

The gastronomic scene in Latvia is booming, offering culinary delights for foodies. In the capital, the Central Market is a food lover's paradise, where you can find fresh local produce, artisanal sausages and freshly baked bread. In the other cities, you're also going to find markets where you can enjoy all this. Exploring local flavours and sampling traditional dishes, such as “sklandrausis” or smoked herring, is a must-try culinary experience.

Latvia is a paradise for adventurers seeking outdoor experiences. From the Latgale region with its scenic lakes to the Gauja National Park with its hiking and biking opportunities, the country offers diverse options. In winter, Sigulda becomes a destination for adrenaline lovers, with opportunities for skiing and sledging. You can also explore the Kemeri National Park, with its swamps and hot springs for a unique natural experience.

Riga, with its vibrant urban life, offers a variety of activities for urbanites. From exploring contemporary art galleries to enjoying the local music scene in bars and clubs, the Latvian capital has something for everyone. Street Miera iela is especially known for its cosy cafes and independent design stores, creating a hip, cosmopolitan atmosphere for students seeking urban experiences.