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INTERNATIONAL VAT GUIDE

Last Updated: December 6, 2024

VAT Guide for Businesses with Customers in Latvia

This guide provides an overview of VAT (Value Added Tax) in Latvia, covering applicable rates, registration requirements, invoicing rules, compliance obligations, and filing deadlines. It is intended for businesses engaging in transactions within Latvia or with Latvian customers.

Overview

Latvia’s VAT system is governed by the Latvian VAT Act and aligns with the EU VAT Directive. VAT applies to most goods and services within Latvia, as well as on imports.

Currency

Euro (€)

VAT Number Format

LV followed by 11 digits (e.g., LV12345678901)

Fiscal Representation

For non-EU businesses it is no longer compulsory to appoint a fiscal representative to register for VAT purposes – they can register in their own names.

Voluntary Registration

Yes, available for businesses below the threshold.

VAT Rates in Latvia

Rate Rate Type Description
21% Standard Rate Applies to most goods and services
12% Reduced Rate Applies to specific items, including medical supplies, specialized baby products, transport and accommodation for tourists, and heating
5% Reduced Rate Applies to certain printed publications, mass media and subscriptions thereto

VAT Registration in Latvia

Business Type VAT Registration Threshold
Resident Businesses EUR 50,000 per annum
Non-Resident Businesses No threshold; registration required for any taxable activity in Latvia

VAT Filing and Payment Deadlines

Frequency Filing Deadline Payment Deadline
Monthly 23rd day of the following month 23rd day of the following month

Digital Services VAT Information

VAT on Cross-Border Electronically Supplied Services Yes
VAT Rate on Digital Services 21%
Threshold for Registration EUR 10,000 per calendar year for EU-based businesses; no threshold for non-EU businesses
VAT on B2B Sales Reverse charge mechanism applies

Note:

Latvia applies VAT on digital services based on the consumer’s location, generally utilizing the OSS system for EU cross-border services.

Digital Services in Scope

  • Website supply, web-hosting, and maintenance
  • Supply of software and updates
  • Streaming or downloading of music, films and games

Exemption

Access to electronic newspapers and periodicals may be exempt under specific conditions, typically for educational or public interest purposes.

E-invoicing Requirements

Latvian tax authorities have expressed an intention to implement mandatory electronic invoicing for B2B and B2G sup­plies as of 1 January 2025; requiring invoices to comply with EU standards.

Digital Reporting Requirements

Latvia requires digital reporting of VAT-related transactions, with submissions made through the Latvian tax authority’s electronic system.

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and may not cover all aspects of Latvian VAT. Consult one of our tax professionals for specific guidance regarding your business.

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