We have previously written about the repatriation process and how to obtain Latvian citizenship. Below is a summary of the key points and recent changes.

I What is the Repatriation Program?

The repatriation program allows individuals to obtain Latvian citizenship without having to pass the language and knowledge exams, provided that one of their ancestors was a Latvian citizen and was born on the territory of Latvia.

The legal basis for this program is the principle of continuity of Latvian citizenship.
According to the Citizenship Law (Pilsonības likums), the relevant dates have been defined to determine eligibility — the ancestor must have been a citizen and/or resident of Latvia before June 17, 1940.

II What Has Changed?

Until July 1, 2023, individuals whose ancestors were ethnically Latvian or Liv could apply for Latvian citizenship based on ethnicity. In such cases, the applicant also had to pass a Latvian language test. Importantly, even if the applicant held citizenship of a country with which Latvia prohibits dual citizenship, they could retain both nationalities under this rule.

The list of countries with which dual citizenship is prohibited in Latvia can be found here:
https://www.pmlp.gov.lv/lv/media/8771/download?attachment
(the list is in Latvian).

However, as of July 2023, instead of Latvian citizenship, individuals and their family members can now only apply for a temporary residence permit valid for up to 5 years. These changes were introduced in response to a significant number of forged documents originating from CIS countries, which falsely claimed Latvian ethnicity or lineage.

III  Additional Grounds for Citizenship

An individual may still be eligible to retain their current citizenship (even if it is from a country with which Latvia prohibits dual citizenship) while acquiring Latvian citizenship, if all of the following conditions are met:

• Their ancestors were Latvian citizens or descendants of Latvian citizens before June 17, 1940;
• Between June 17, 1940 and May 4, 1990, they left Latvia to escape occupation by the USSR or Nazi Germany, or were deported (e.g., sent to a concentration camp);
• They did not return to Latvia for permanent residence before May 4, 1990, due to the reasons mentioned above.

In such cases, documentary evidence must be provided to prove that the ancestors were forced to leave Latvia for another country.

IV Processing Time

Each case is reviewed individually, so processing times may vary. The Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs typically reviews submitted applications within one month, but this period may be extended up to four months if additional information or documents are requested.

Additional time should also be factored in for:

• Collecting proof of ancestry,
• Sending and receiving official documents,
• Translation and legalization (if required).

On average, the process can take 3 to 6 months, depending on whether the applicant is located in Latvia or abroad. All documents must be submitted by mail or electronically (if the applicant has an electronic signature).

Need Assistance?

If you need legal consultation regarding obtaining Latvian citizenship through the repatriation program, or help preparing your documents, please contact us. We will be happy to assist you!

Contact Information:
Email: follaw@follaw.eu
Phone: +371 24662977
You can also send us a message through our website by scrolling down the page.

Other useful articles:

Residence Permit for Employment in Latvia II (FOR EMPLOYERS)
Residence Permit for Employment in Latvia