A new trend has emerged in Latvia - banks are gradually returning in-person service centers to the regions, particularly noticeable in Latgale.
In 2026, 21 new customer service points were opened in 12 cities across the country, some of which directly improve access to financial services for local residents.
This process is occurring after a long period of branch reductions. While there were 319 banking points in the country in 2013, today there are only 83 left. For the residents of Latgale, this meant limited opportunities to receive consultations and services in person.
The situation began to change following the initiative of the Bank of Latvia, which introduced new requirements for the presence of credit institutions in the regions to maintain a balance between digital services and the availability of in-person service.
These changes are particularly important for Latgale. New alternative service points have appeared in Preili, Kraslava, and Balvi. This allows residents to receive consultations closer to home without traveling to larger cities.
The largest banks in the country are participating in the project. They offer both permanent branches and alternative formats - mobile consultations or service by appointment.
According to surveys, about one-third of residents in Latvia still need in-person banking services. This is especially relevant for older people who value personal contact with a specialist.
