Latvia Expels Over 800 Russian Citizens by Mid-October Deadline
Latvia is intensifying its measures towards Russian citizens amid escalating tensions with Moscow. By a mid-October deadline, the country has mandated the expulsion of over 800 Russians due to non-compliance with residence permit regulations.
Overview of the Expulsion Policy
Approximately 30,000 Russian citizens were impacted by recent legal changes concerning residency. While many have adapted to meet the new requirements, around 2,600 opted to leave Latvia voluntarily. However, 841 individuals failed to submit the necessary documentation before the deadline.
Deadline and Consequences
The expulsion deadline is set for October 13. Madara Puķe, the head of public relations at Latvia’s Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA), emphasized the urgency of this matter. Those who do not comply will find their stay “unlawful,” leading to the withdrawal of social services.
Maira Roze, the OCMA head, noted the lack of awareness among some Russian citizens. Many only realize their status when they stop receiving pension payments. Inquiries about these payments subsequently reveal their lack of a valid residence permit.
Legal Implications for Non-Compliant Citizens
- Non-compliance after the deadline may result in forced deportation.
- Access to social services will be removed for those who remain unlawfully.
Security Concerns Driving Policy Changes
The Latvian government has taken these steps in light of heightened national security concerns. In May, Foreign Minister Baiba Braže urged other EU nations to cease visa issuance to Russian citizens. The parliament also enacted a ban in June on Russian and Belarusian citizens working in critical infrastructure or purchasing real estate.
These policies reflect Latvia’s commitment to ensuring national security amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The situation remains dynamic as the government prepares to enforce new regulations and manage compliance among the Russian population in the country.
