On 15 September 2026, Latvia’s new Immigration Law enters into force, introducing wide-ranging reform of the residence permit and foreign-employment framework. The updated regulation strengthens security, increases transparency, and reshapes both investment-based migration and employment-based residence for third-country nationals.
Real Estate-Based Permits Abolished
One of the most notable changes is the complete abolition of temporary residence permits (TRPs) based on real estate acquisition. The long-standing option to obtain a TRP through purchasing property is no longer available, marking a decisive shift away from passive investment-based migration.
In its place, the law introduces a new investment-based TRP programme. Foreign nationals may obtain a TRP for up to five years by investing €150,000 in a state-established alternative investment fund manager and paying an additional €10,000 to the state budget. The permit remains valid for as long as the investment contract stays active and the investment does not fall below the required threshold.
Other lawful TRP routes remain available, including:
- investment in company share capital (€50,000 / €100,000 + €10,000 state fee);
- employment-based residence, including the EU Blue Card;
- management and startup activity for board members and innovative high-growth enterprises; and
- studies and family reunification under existing criteria.
Restrictions for Russian and Belarusian Citizens
The new Immigration Law maintains and clarifies strict limitations for nationals of Russia and Belarus. Russian citizens face the broadest prohibitions and cannot obtain a TRP based on investment, employment as athletes or coaches, representation of foreign airlines, or several other grounds. Belarusian citizens retain more options, including family reunification, studies, employment, company management with at least €25,000 in annual tax payments, and innovative startup activity. Citizens of both countries may apply for a one-year employment-based TRP if they have worked legally in Latvia for the previous three months and paid taxes during that period.
Key Changes Affecting Employment of Third-Country Nationals
Alongside the residence permit reforms, the new Immigration Law introduces substantial changes to the employment framework for foreign nationals. These amendments aim to reduce fictitious employment, strengthen labour-market oversight, and ensure compliance with national security priorities.
Enhanced employment oversight. The law introduces stricter criteria for employing foreign nationals, expands document and data verification, and improves information exchange with EU systems. This significantly increases scrutiny of employers and employment-based TRP applications.
Mandatory NVA approval. Employers wishing to hire a third-country national must now obtain an opinion from the State Employment Agency (NVA) confirming the necessity of employing a foreign specialist, that the vacancy has been properly registered, that no suitable local candidates are available, and that the employer has no tax debts or labour-law violations. This requirement is designed to prevent fictitious job offers and ensure genuine labour-market need.
Standardised employment rights in residence permits. Residence permits and visas now include uniform, clearly defined entries regarding employment rights, such as the right to work for a specific employer, the right to work without restrictions, a 20-hour weekly limit for students, or authorisation for commercial activity for board members and similar roles. This reduces ambiguity and ensures consistent interpretation across institutions.
Updated language requirements. Documents for repeated residence permits must be submitted in Latvian, affecting employers who prepare documentation for foreign employees.
Integration requirements. From late 2027, foreign nationals seeking long-term employment rights will be required to complete Latvian language and integration courses, strengthening social cohesion and long-term integration.
Shorter processing times. The maximum processing period for residence permits is now four months, improving predictability for employers and foreign specialists.
Latvia’s updated immigration framework strengthens security and transparency while maintaining several viable legal pathways for foreign nationals seeking residence or employment, with clear, enhanced restrictions for nationals of high-risk jurisdictions.
If you would like to review the new rules in more detail or need assistance with the residence permit or employment-based immigration process, TRINITI’s team is available to provide clear guidance and practical support.
