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Restrictions and prohibitions on the export of artworks

From Latvia, it is prohibited to export items of significant cultural, historical, or artistic value without a permit from the National Heritage Board.

Cultural objects requiring export permit regardless of their place of origin:

  • Archaeological antiquities dated up to and including the 17th century, that have been:
    • obtained through excavations, or found in the ground, on the surface, or in water;
    • discovered at archaeological sites;
    • retrieved from archaeological excavations.
  • Detached fragments over 100 years old that are an integral part of an artistic, historical, or religious monument; 
  • Incunabula and manuscripts over 100 years old, including geographical maps and musical scores (whether individually or as part of a collection);
  • Various types of archives containing items over 100 years old (regardless of material);
  • Books over 100 years old (either individually or as part of a collection);
  • Collections of historical, paleontological, ethnographic or numismatic value.
  • More than 100-year-old artworks and antiques.