Diaspora

With less than 2 million people living in Latvia itself, the nearly 400,000-person-strong diaspora community is a key component of the Latvian identity, keeping the language and culture alive, and a powerful lever for strengthening global ties. We are a nation rooted on the coasts of the Baltic Sea, but ready to sail any ocean, take up any mission.

We invite all Latvians abroad to enjoy their Latvian heritage to the fullest, and to use their unique experience to the benefit of Latvia and global Latvian communities worldwide.

Latvians – world explorers

Latvians are everywhere, a remarkable feat considering how few of them there are. Sometimes they can be recognized by their language, their jewelry, their uniquely Latvian name, or the crafts in their homes. By their creativity, perseverance and work ethics, Latvians are widely known for their talent, skills and hard work, putting their heart in everything they do.

The largest Latvian communities can be found in the UK, Canada, the United States, Germany, Australia, as well as smaller communities around Europe, Asia, and even Brasil. This often has to do with historical events, but also with the ambition to learn, grow, overcome and achieve – personally and professionally.

Latvians are restless, long for the mountains that cannot be found in their country, and even have gone on to become acclaimed explorers, such as Aleksandrs Laime, a famous explorer who is the first human to reach Angel Falls, the tallest waterfall in the world. He was the one to name the river that feeds the record-breaking falls, which he named after the longest river in Latvia – the Gauja.

Connected globally

The global Latvian community is strong, independent, and thriving. No matter where you are, there are opportunities for you to get involved, and maintain or build ties with Latvia – in terms of its culture and heritage, but also with regard to business, research and tourism while not in the country itself.

Put your professional skills to work

Each Latvian living abroad has the opportunity to open doors for Latvia’s further economic development. Take your personal experience and put it to good use by participating in one of the several business-oriented events.

Make it official – establish your ties

Every Latvian and their families are eagerly welcome back. There are several programs available for members of the diaspora to establish their ties with Latvia. Here are several options.