Latvian parliamentarians propose to tighten requirements for foreigners: in cases of repeated violations of traffic rules, aggressive behavior, or disrespect for the laws of the country, they may face the revocation of their residence permit.
According to the draft law, a residence permit may be revoked if a person has been administratively liable for violations of public order, management rules, or traffic regulations three times within one year.
The author of the initiative, Saeima deputy Ainars Latkovskis ("New Unity"), emphasized that the main duty of the state is to ensure the safety of citizens and protect public order:
"Everyone living in Latvia is obliged to comply with its laws. If a person systematically ignores them, it demonstrates disrespect for our country and society, and therefore, the state has the right to reconsider the issue of their stay here."
On Thursday, deputies submitted amendments to the Immigration Law for consideration by the parliamentary Committee on Defense, Internal Affairs, and Corruption Prevention.
The amendments concern administrative offenses that may threaten public safety or order, as well as actions that offend individuals or the state — for example, aggressive behavior, causing minor bodily harm, displaying totalitarian symbols in public places, sexual harassment, and traffic violations.
The authors of the draft law believe that these changes will help strengthen immigration control and increase the level of safety in society.
"Long-term residence in Latvia is not a right but a privilege that is deserved only by those who respect the laws of the country and behave responsibly," the annotation to the draft law states.
