From airport pickup to opening a bank account — an honest, week-by-week picture of settling into Riga as a first-time expat.
<p>Latvia is small, safe and surprisingly affordable — but the first 90 days require preparation. Here is what to expect.</p><h2>Week 1</h2><p>Airport pickup by employer, temporary accommodation, SIM card, and residence-registration paperwork at the OCMA office.</p><h2>Weeks 2–4</h2><p>Bank account opening (usually Swedbank or SEB), medical insurance registration, and your first pay cycle.</p><h2>Months 2–3</h2><p>Long-term rental, local language classes (employers often sponsor A1 level), and a settled routine.</p><p>Winters are cold but well-heated. Public transport in Riga is excellent, and the Indian community is small but tightly-knit.</p>