Payroll and HR in Latvia

Bordered by Estonia, Russia, Belarus, and Lithuania, Latvia is in an excellent position in northern Europe. The country boasts more than 300 miles of Baltic Sea coastline, the majority of which is sandy. This has led to Latvia’s growing popularity as a tourist destination, especially among those from neighbouring countries. In addition to tourism, much of Latvia’s income derives from its prime exports, which include sawn wood, broadcasting equipment, liquor, and wheat.

Riga International Airport is just over eight miles from the centre of the capital, and the journey takes around 30 minutes. From the airport, there are flights to 82 destinations in over 30 countries in Europe and the Middle East. Within Latvia, public transport comes in the form of regular trams and buses, which are most prominent in the large cities. There is also a considerable rail network across the country.

Those considering expanding their business into Latvia must not only be acquainted with local industry, transport, and social considerations, but they must also be aware of Latvia’s employment law. This can be a difficult realm to navigate, however, the experts at IRIS FMP have experience in a wide range of international HR and payroll legislation. Learn more about what to expect when employing individuals in Latvia.

Details correct at time of publication. You should not rely on these details without first seeking professional international advice.

HR in Latvia

What are the regular working hours in Latvia?

Normal working hours in Latvia are 40 hours per week across five days, working out to eight hour days. Business hours are usually between 8.30am and 5pm, however many employees work late into the evening – including on weekends. Office hours can vary, and Fridays are generally shorter – ending at 4pm or earlier.

Shops in the bigger cities are usually open between 10am and 7pm, and banks are usually open 10am-2pm and 3pm-5pm. Banks are closed on weekends.

Vacation, maternity and sickness

Employees in Latvia are entitled to four weeks of paid annual leave, plus there are 13 public holidays on which employees are not expected to work in ordinary circumstances.

In Latvia, expectant mothers are entitled to a minimum of 56 and maximum of 70 days of paid leave prior to the birth of their child, and an additional 56-70 days of paid leave after the birth. The amount payable is 80% of the average insurance contribution wage. In addition to maternity leave, mothers in Latvia can share another 18 months of partially paid, parental leave.

Employers must pay their employees for up to ten days of sick leave. This is in the amount of 75% of their salary for days two and three, and 80% of their salary for days four to ten. From the 11^th day, the employee must provide a medical certificate in order to apply for social support in the form of sick pay, which will be in the amount of 80% of their salary from day 11 and up to 26 weeks.

Termination

Employment can be terminated by either party in Latvia, as long as appropriate notice is given. This is between ten and 30 days. Employers can terminate an employee’s contract with immediate effect if there has been unlawful activity. Employees should be paid a severance pay according to their length of service; this will be between one and four month’s salary.

• Employment contracts
• HR consultancy
• Payroll processing
• Processing tax and social security deductions

• Managing payslips
• Tax reporting
• Benefits administration
• Pension administration

• Accounting services
• Translation services
• Year End Tax Reconciliation
• Multiple currency payroll