To ensure a pleasant, safe, and hassle-free stay in Riga and across Latvia, visitors are asked to observe several important public order rules. Respecting local laws, cultural norms, and shared spaces helps maintain a safe and comfortable environment for both residents and guests.
Follow these public order rules
- To start off, violating generally accepted norms of behavior, disturbing the peace or the work of an institution, as well as endangering one's own or others' safety, may result in a warning or a fine of up to €500.
- It is also important to note that smoking (including e-cigarettes) is prohibited in public transport shelters, in parks, squares, cafes, restaurants, and other public catering establishments, except for outdoor cafes (terraces). It is also prohibited to smoke in the presence of a child, pregnant woman, or other person if that person objects to it.
- Graffiti, damage to vehicles and shop windows, and other types of deliberate damage to property are punishable by imprisonment for up to two years.
- Before using pyrotechnic products, permission must be obtained from the Riga municipal authorities. The use of pyrotechnics without permission is punishable by a fine of up to €350.
Respect Latvian national symbols – the Freedom Monument and the Latvian flag
The Freedom Monument is one of Latvia’s most important national symbols, protected by the state and holding deep historical and emotional significance for the Latvian people. Both residents and visitors are expected to treat this site with the utmost respect, as any inappropriate behavior – even if unintentional – may lead to substantial consequences.
Such behavior includes, for example, climbing on the monument, urinating on it or nearby, or parking vehicles within its designated protection zone to take pictures of the monument. These actions are strictly prohibited.
Disrespecting the Freedom Monument is punishable by a fine of between €1,000 and €2,000. It is also prohibited to damage or otherwise show disrespect to the Latvian flag.
Special legal restrictions
- It is prohibited to use or display symbols glorifying military aggression and war crimes in public places.
- It is prohibited to use or display in public places:
- the flags of totalitarian regimes
- symbols identifying the armed forces and repressive institutions of regimes (coats of arms, anthems, uniforms, identification marks)
- as well as Nazi swastikas, SS symbols, and symbols of the USSR.
Restrictions on the use of alcohol or intoxicating substances
- Consumption of alcohol in public places (city streets, parks) outside cafes and bars is prohibited. The consumption of alcoholic beverages or other intoxicating substances in public places or being in a state of intoxication, thereby disturbing public order or safety, is punishable by a fine of up to €350.
- The use or possession of marijuana is prohibited in Latvia.
Main prohibitions for minors
- Minors are prohibited from purchasing and consuming alcoholic beverages in any public place or event. Involvement of minor into consumption may result in a fine of up to €700.
- Minors and persons under the age of 20 are prohibited from purchasing and using tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.
- After 10 p.m., minors are prohibited from being in public places without adult supervision.
- Minors may be restricted from attending events where alcohol and tobacco products are sold or consumed.
Complete Electronic Travel Declaration
- Electronic Travel Declaration is an online form that must be submitted by foreign citizens starting from September 1, 2025, for planned entry and stay in the Republic of Latvia.
- Declaration must to be filled out by a person - a citizen of any country, except a member state of the European Union, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, a country of the European Economic Area, the Swiss Confederation or the Federative Republic of Brazil, who does not have a visa or residence permit issued by the Republic of Latvia (hereafter referred to as a Foreign national).
- The Declaration must be submitted by a Foreign national at least 48 hours before entering the Republic of Latvia.
- Declaration is not considered an entry permit.
Safety tips and where to find help
- Visit entertainment venues marked with the LIVE RIGA "Tourist friendly" sign.
- Be wary of pickpockets on public transport, in tunnels, and other crowded places.
- When using taxi services, always check the price of the service before the trip.
- Don't leave your drink unattended to avoid the risk of waking up without your wallet.
- Safety hotline for foreign residents: +371 67181818
- When in need of help, call emergency number 112!