End of the residence permit program in Latvia

The Latvian Seimas in the final reading approved amendments to the immigration law, which suspend the unhindered extension of a temporary residence permit (residence permit) in the republic for citizens of Russia and Belarus.

The amendments suspend the possibility of extending a temporary residence permit for citizens of Russia and Belarus who received it based on investments made or purchase of real estate in Latvia. Russian citizens will also no longer be able to obtain work visas. Nevertheless, exceptions were made to these restrictions, namely, the possibility of issuing a temporary residence permit based on family reunification, international protection, national interests or humanitarian considerations. The law provides that restrictions for Belarusian citizens will be less stringent.

At the same time, the permanent residence permit issued earlier to citizens of the Russian Federation will be valid only until 1 of September 2023. If a person wishes to obtain a permanent residence permit again, they will have to provide proof of Latvian language proficiency and a corresponding certificate.

Link to source: https://www.saeima.lv/lv/aktualitates/saeimas-zinas/31419-saeima-maina-terminuzturesanas-atlauju-pag...