Creating a bank account

For the first time when you go to the bank, your data will be checked (as you' re a non-resident). Some days later you will be asked to come again and sign the contract.

If you are 16-24 years old, you can get a Visa Classic only for 1 Ls. It' s called "Open" card and you can get it in Swedbank.
More information:
http://www.swedbank.lv/eng/cenas/cenradis.php?nr=5-15 - about the card
http://www.swedbank.lv/eng/docs/filiales.php - where to find Swedbank

There is also an "ISIC" card, a Visa Classic for 3.50 Ls,
It  is an international student card which gives you different discounts and can be used as an ID to prove that you' re over 18 or 21, so you don' t have to take your passport with you. Unfortunately it' s not counted as an ID document in some clubs anymore. To get this card you will need a 3x4cm photo and a student ID to prove that you are a student at your University.
More information:
http://www.swedbank.lv/eng/cenas/cenradis.php?nr=5-14 - about the card
http://www.isic.lv/index.php?id=734 - about discounts in Latvia
http://www.isic.org/home.aspx - about ISIC in the world

A price for a usual Visa Classic is ~ 10 Ls.

Information updated on 12th July 2010.