Latvia stops issuing residence permits to Russian citizens

02.10.2014

The Bill on amending the law “On Immigration” was approved at the meeting of the Latvian Seimas. The Bill allows for the temporary suspension of providing services for issuance of residence permits on the ground of investments especially to the citizens of Russian Federation.

Amendments are being made to the article 23 of the Law, which states that issuance of residence permit is possible to the person, who is a holder of the Latvian real estate amounting to more than 250 000 euro.

In the covering note for the Bill this decision is justified by the fact that the person, who has such economic impact in Latvia, can also affect political processes inside the country.

Source: http://titania.saeima.lv/LIVS11/saeimalivs11.nsf/0/9349A443518250B2C2257D5E002E30F9?OpenDocument

Expert’s opinion

Latvia is an EU member. Its reaction to everything connected with Russia is typically in the line with the spirit of nowadays relationships between Russian Federation and Western World.

Well, those who desire just to get the document which allows them to travel abroad in the form of foreign passport or residence permit, now will go throw the more strict procedure. But if you are really planning to move or to emigrate to EU there are countries which still welcome foreigners including Russians.

It is a decision which will change you life and the life of your family as well. So, you shall decide something like that having maximum of information and understanding all details.

Our experts are ready to consult you on this matter

Yaroslav Lomakin ( Managing Partner, Honest & Bright Company)