Saeima endorses stricter requirements for residence permit holders

RIGA - Latvian lawmakers on Thursday approved in the first reading draft amendments to the Immigration Law, setting stricter requirements for foreigners staying in Latvia and providing for the possibility to cancel a temporary residence permit for persons who repeatedly violate the law.

The draft law provides that a temporary residence permit issued to a foreigner may be revoked if, within one calendar year, the person commits three administrative offenses in the areas of public order, public administration, or road traffic.

MP Ainars Latkovskis (New Unity), who initiated the amendments, emphasizes that Latvia is obliged to protect the security of its citizens and public order.

"Everyone who stays in our country must respect our laws and regulations. If a person repeatedly violates them, this shows disrespect for Latvia and its people, in which case the state has the right to assess whether it is justified to maintain such a residence permit," Latkovskis argued.

The draft law has been co-signed by both coalition and opposition MPs - Raimonds Bergmanis (United List), Chairman of the Saeima Defense, Interior and Anti-Corruption Committee, Raivis Dzintars, Chairman of the National Alliance faction, Uldis Augulis (Greens/Farmers), and unaffiliated MP Skaidrite Abrama.

The draft law will apply to various types of administrative offenses that threaten public order and security, as well as respect for a person and the Latvian state. For example, if a person is administratively punished for aggressive behavior, causing minor bodily harm, using symbols of totalitarian regimes in a public place, as well as sexual harassment, and road traffic offenses.

This proposal is a step toward reinforcing immigration control and promoting public security, the authors argue. "It is a signal that long-term residence in Latvia is a privilege that belongs only to those who respect Latvian law, act responsibly, and respect the rules of society," the authors of the draft law explain.