Childbirth benefits in Latvia 2026: state pays €600, municipalities vary up to €1,500
From 2026, Latvia's state childbirth benefits have risen sharply, while municipal top-up payments still range widely from €100 to €1,500 depending on the local government. Jurmala offers one of the country's highest municipal payments since March.
Latvia has significantly increased state support for families following the birth of a child in 2026, though total benefits still vary considerably depending on the municipality of residence, according to information compiled by Delfi.
Changes to state benefits
The one-time state childbirth benefit has been raised this year from €421.17 to €600. The childcare benefit, paid until a child turns one and a half years old, has increased from €171 to €298 per month. Authorities have promised the benefit amount will be reviewed every two years going forward. Until the end of 2025, a lower monthly rate applied, and parents received just under €43 per month for children aged between one and a half and two years.
Differences between municipalities
In addition to the state benefit, municipalities also pay their own childbirth benefits, where differences are even more pronounced — ranging from €100 to as much as €1,500 depending on the specific municipality and its eligibility conditions. In Riga, the municipal benefit has been increased this year from €150 to €450. In Jurmala, since March 2026, new parents receive €1,500 — one of the highest amounts in the country. Many municipalities also offer other forms of support for young families beyond cash payments.
Context
The changes come amid a deepening demographic crisis: in 2025, 11,637 children were born in Latvia, almost 10% fewer than the previous year. The situation is further compounded by geopolitical tensions in the region. Most benefits can be arranged through the State Social Insurance Agency or the relevant municipality.
