As of March 1, 2026, all food delivery couriers in Latvia are required to register with the Food and Veterinary Service (PVD), according to a new regulation intended to increase transparency in the rapidly growing sector. The requirement, initially announced in November 2024, aims to address challenges in overseeing couriers who operate without fixed work locations or schedules.
The PVD will maintain a database of registered couriers, allowing authorities to verify their legal right to work in Latvia, including valid residency permits and registration with the State Revenue Service. According to Zemkopības ministrs (Minister of Agriculture) Armands Krauze, the database is a “first step” toward making the food delivery landscape more accountable to both consumers and regulatory bodies.
The move comes after a surge in demand for food delivery services, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although initial concerns focused on the safety of pre-packaged food, PVD Director General Māris Balodis stated that the agency has found that the “human factor” – the actions and accountability of the delivery personnel themselves – is a significant element in ensuring food safety. “In these situations, we as a supervisory agency must have the opportunity – at a minimum – to find the person involved in the delivery and, if necessary, hold them accountable,” Balodis said.
The registration process requires couriers to complete an application form available on the PVD website and submit it either in person or electronically. The PVD will then verify the submitted information. The regulation applies to all individuals engaged in delivering food products and meals directly to consumers.
The new rules were prompted by difficulties in inspecting couriers due to their mobile nature and the lack of readily available information from the companies they work with. The PVD aims to determine the total number of food delivery couriers operating in Latvia and maintain comprehensive contact information for each registered individual.
LV portāls reported in February 2025 that the registration requirement was scheduled to take effect on March 1, 2026 and would likewise involve ensuring couriers are compliant with tax obligations.