Obtaining a licence to open a pharmacy in Latvia
This service guidance outlines the essential steps and requirements involved in obtaining a licence to open a pharmacy in Latvia. The framework ensures that applicants meet legal and operational standards, thereby supporting high-quality pharmaceutical care and public safety.
Types of hharmacies
In Latvia, pharmacies are classified into distinct types based on the scope of services provided. Each classification addresses specific market needs and has defined operational permissions.
General (open) type pharmacies
These pharmacies are authorized to pack medicinal products and issue medications upon receipt of a medical or veterinary prescription. They distribute products to both individuals and institutions. Branches that engage in packing are required to have qualified pharmacists on staff.
Closed type pharmacies (pharmacies of medical treatment institutions)
These establishments focus on serving medical treatment institutions by packing, preparing, and distributing medicinal products exclusively for institutional use. They are restricted from supplying medications directly to natural persons.
Veterinary pharmacies:
Veterinary pharmacies specialize in dispensing both prescription and non-prescription veterinary medicinal products, as well as other goods relevant to animal care. Their operations are restricted to ensure that preparation and packing are exclusively managed by qualified pharmacists.
Main licensing and establishment requirements
The regulatory requirements focus on three main aspects to ensure compliance and a high standard of service delivery. Each aspect plays a crucial role in the establishment of a pharmacy.
Premises, equipment, and personnel
Applicants must secure facilities that meet legal standards and are equipped with the necessary technology and resources. In addition, there must be a commitment to staffing the pharmacy with certified and qualified personnel. For pharmacies (with the exception of veterinary types), management is required to be in the hands of a certified pharmacist who is registered with the Pharmacists’ Society of Latvia.
Business structure options
Pharmacies can be established under various business structures, including individual pharmacist practices, joint practices, or capital companies. When forming a capital company, it is mandatory that at least 50% of the shares or an equivalent proportion of board members are held by certified pharmacists. Pharmacist’s assistants can also operate in specific rural areas under strict conditions, primarily in regions with limited access to pharmaceutical services.
Licensing process
The licensing process is administered by the State Agency of Medicines under the oversight of the Cabinet of Ministers. This process includes an evaluation of the premises and personnel, along with the submission of a detailed application. Once all criteria are met, a licence is typically issued for an indefinite period, except in the case of certain pharmacist’s assistant operations, where a licence is granted for a period of five years.
Licence acqusition process
The process for obtaining a pharmacy licence in Latvia involves several key steps:
Choosing the appropriate pharmacy type
The first step is to select the pharmacy classification that best aligns with your intended scope of services—general, closed (institutional), or veterinary.
Meeting regulatory requirements
Next, ensure that your proposed pharmacy meets all regulatory standards concerning the physical premises, equipment, and the availability of certified, qualified personnel.
Selecting the suitable business structure
Finally, choose a business structure that complies with current Latvian legislation. This includes setting up the management and operational protocols according to the requirements established by the State Agency of Medicines and the Pharmacists’ Society of Latvia.
This streamlined service guidance provides an essential framework for those looking to enter the Latvian pharmaceutical market, ensuring compliance with legal standards and delivering the highest levels of public health and safety.
Contact us
If you’re prepared to take the next step in establishing your pharmacy in Latvia or need further guidance on the licensing process, we’re here to help. Contact us today for expert support and tailored advice.