In the name of public safety, on Thursday, 26 March, the Saeima adopted in the final reading stricter rules for residence permit holders who have violated the law. It will be possible to revoke temporary residence permits issued to foreigners if they have systematically committed administrative violations within one year.

A temporary residence permit issued to a foreign national will be revoked if the individual poses a threat to public order and safety, including through systematic violations—three or more times within a 12-month period – by committing administrative offences in the domains of public administration, public order, road traffic, or the protection of children’s rights.

The changes apply to administrative offences that endanger public order and safety, undermine respect for the individual and respect for the State of Latvia. Such offences include, for example, if a person has been administratively punished for aggressive behaviour, causing minor bodily harm, displaying symbols of totalitarian regimes in public places, sexual harassment or traffic violations.

This proposal is a step toward strengthening immigration control and promoting public safety. Long-term residence in Latvia is a privilege reserved only for those who comply with Latvian legislation, act responsibly, and respect the rules of society, note the members of the Saeima who authored the amendments.

Saeima Press Service