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The best ways to get mobile data in Latvia are to buy a local prepaid SIM card upon arrival or to set up a digital travel eSIM before flying. 

If you’re looking for a Latvia SIM card, there are three main local network operators — LMT, Tele2, and Bitė — though only LMT and Tele2 still sell prepaid cards to new customers. 

Alternatively, if you want access to mobile internet the second your plane touches down without waiting in lines to register your SIM, an eSIM for Latvia from Holafly provides unlimited data and smooth connectivity without swapping physical plastic cards.

Best Latvia SIM card options and where to buy them

Latvia has three mobile network operators: LMT, Tele2, and Bitė. LMT and Tele2 sell prepaid starter packs; Bitė withdrew from prepaid in October 2026. 

Disclaimer: The data in this article is accurate as of October 2, 2026, and is subject to change.

LMT SIM card for Latvia 

LMT Latvia offers prepaid packages for both eSIMs and SIM cards. You can choose between a variety of plans that offer different mobile internet, voice minutes, and text allowances. Each plan also includes varying durations from 24 hours to 120 days. 

Where to buy an LMT SIM card in Latvia

LMT sells eSIMs through its website, though you may be asked to verify your identity during sign-up. 

If you prefer an in-person SIM card purchase, you can head to one of LMT’s many customer centers all across the country. Some listed on the website are: 

  • SKIN ORANGE: Rigas gatve 5, Adazi, Adazi county, LV-2164, Latvia
  • IGA: Gaismas iela 35, Aizkraukle, Aizkraukles district, LV-5101, Latvia
  • ACROPOLIS: Latgales Street 257, Riga, LV-1019, Latvia

Finally, you can purchase an LMT SIM card at retail outlets in shopping centers, small shops, kiosks, and gas stations. Some outlet locations include Narvesen, Maxima, Rimi, Elves, and Citro.

Tele2 SIM card for Latvia

Tele2 is also a major operator in Latvia, and Zelta Zivtiņa is its official prepaid brand. According to Tele2 Latvia’s official website, existing customers can switch from a physical SIM card to an eSIM on the self-service portal. 

But if you’re a new customer, you can buy an eSIM with a tariff plan. Check out our detailed Tele2 eSIM/SIM card guide for more information on allowances and plan prices. 

Where to buy a Tele2 SIM card in Latvia 

You can visit these official Tele2 retail locations: 

  • Riga Plaza Shopping Center
  • Akropole Riga
  • Domina Shopping Center

Note: When purchasing in-store, tourists may face registration challenges. For postpaid plans, you’ll need local documentation to register successfully; without it, your eSIM activation could be delayed. For prepaid plans through Zelta Zivtina, a passport should be enough, but take it with you, since registration is tightening across the market. 

Bitė SIM card for Latvia

Bitė stopped selling prepaid SIM cards on 1 October 2026, citing their use in fraud. Existing prepaid customers can keep using their service, but new prepaid cards are no longer available, so Bitė isn’t an option if you’re arriving without a Latvian line. Its contract plans remain available to residents. 

Where to buy a Bitė SIM card in Latvia

It’s unclear whether tourists and visitors can place an order online and get a SIM card delivered. In this case, it’s best to visit an official Bitė store in Latvia in person and sign up for a SIM card with the help of a customer service agent. 

How to register for a Latvia SIM card

Latvia is phasing out anonymous prepaid SIMs. The government has approved mandatory registration for all prepaid users, and Bite stopped selling prepaid cards on 1 October 2026 ahead of the change. Take your passport and expect to register in line — the rules are still bedding in, so it’s worth checking with the operator before you travel. 

Important: Make sure your phone is unlocked from your carrier before you attempt to insert another network’s SIM card.

When you’ve purchased your local SIM card, follow these steps to set it up. 

  1. Insert the SIM card: Unclip the SIM chip (standard, micro, or nano) and insert it into your unlocked smartphone.
  2. Top up or activate a plan: Most starter packs come pre-loaded with a nominal balance or a few days of default data. To secure your purchased plan, send the required activation SMS code specified on the card packaging.
  3. Configure APN settings: In most cases, network settings populate automatically. If data does not start working immediately, restart your device or verify that Access Point Name (APN) settings match your network carrier’s specifications printed in the instruction leaflet.

If these steps seem complicated, it’s worth visiting an official carrier store to get help from store staff. You can also opt for a dedicated travel eSIM for Latvia instead to skip the SIM card swapping, retain access to your number, and set up your plan in minutes. 

Alternative ways to stay connected in Latvia for tourists

When planning your trip, you have three primary ways to access mobile data across Latvia:

  • Local physical prepaid SIM: Inexpensive and simple to buy once you arrive, but requires swapping out your primary home SIM card and storing your original chip safely.
  • International roaming: EU residents benefit from roaming rules that allow them to use domestic data allowances without extra fees. However, UK travelers should check with their home operator, as standard roaming charges or daily flat fees may apply post-Brexit.
  • Travel eSIM: A convenient digital option installed on eSIM-compatible phones. It lets you keep your home phone number active for incoming text messages or security verification codes while using local data.

Connect the moment you land with Holafly’s unlimited data eSIM for Latvia

For travelers who prefer to avoid visits to carrier stores or fiddling with tiny plastic SIM cards, setting up a travel eSIM before departure offers maximum convenience. Holafly’s eSIM for Latvia allows you to connect to local networks instantly as soon as your flight arrives at Riga Airport.

With a Holafly eSIM, you enjoy unlimited data, high-speed connection, 24/7 customer support, flexible plan durations, and a daily hotspot allowance. 

Furthermore, every plan includes Always On, providing 1 GB of monthly backup data at no added cost, so you never lose connection when navigating or staying in touch with family.

FAQs about Latvia SIM cards

Can I buy a prepaid SIM card at Riga International Airport?

Yes, you can purchase a prepaid SIM card for Latvia from Narvesen convenience kiosks in the arrivals hall at Riga International Airport (RIX).

Do I need a passport to buy a SIM card in Latvia?

Increasingly, yes. Latvia is phasing out anonymous prepaid SIMs under new registration rules, and operators are already adapting — Bite stopped selling prepaid cards in October 2026. Take your passport and expect to wait in line. 

Can I get unlimited data on a prepaid SIM in Latvia?

Some local providers, such as LMT and Tele2, may offer short-term prepaid data top-ups that provide unlimited data for fixed 7-day or 30-day periods.

Will my UK SIM card work in Latvia without fees?

It depends on your provider. While EU travelers roam free under EU regulations, UK citizens should check their home carrier’s policy, as some UK networks charge daily roaming fees when traveling in Latvia.

Heading to Latvia? Don’t miss these other SIM card choices in the Baltic region.

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Mahnoor Bangush

Mahnoor Bangush

SEO Content Writer

Born and raised in Queens, New York, I'm a Psychology graduate with a passion for writing that I've been nurturing since 2019. Over the years, I've enjoyed creating meaningful content across various niches, including sports, hospitality, and career development. At Holafly, I focus on crafting useful and inspiring pieces to make your adventures more effortless. One of the best perks of this role? Creating travel content always seems to inspire my next vacation destination!

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