Latvia’s parliament, the Saeima, has adopted a new immigration law in its third and final reading. It significantly tightens the conditions for entry, stay, and work permits for citizens from countries outside the European Union. 65 deputies voted in favor, 17 against.
Authorities justify the reform with the goal of increasing security and making migration more transparent. The chairman of the parliamentary committee for defense, interior, and corruption prevention, Raimonds Bergmanis, called the new rules an “important step towards a safer and more transparent migration policy.”
The law provides for enhanced controls at the EU’s external borders, additional checks on third-country nationals, and new return procedures in line with EU standards. Latvia also plans to make greater use of biometric data and expand information exchange with European databases. Procedures for visas and residence permits are also being adjusted.
Source: 24tv.ua
