Residents of Latvia planning to move abroad and acquire another citizenship should consider that the procedure for renouncing Latvian citizenship depends on the country whose citizenship is being acquired. In some cases, renunciation is a right, while in others, it is a legal requirement.
If a citizen of Latvia acquires the citizenship of a country that Latvian legislation allows for dual citizenship, or if citizenship of such a country is guaranteed to them, they have the right to renounce Latvian citizenship.
If the new citizenship pertains to a country that does not allow dual citizenship, an application for renunciation of Latvian citizenship must be submitted within 30 days after its acquisition.
Exceptions are provided for individuals whom the Cabinet of Ministers has allowed to retain Latvian citizenship in the interest of the state, as well as for those who automatically acquired another citizenship as a result of marriage or adoption.
Currently, Latvia allows dual citizenship with countries of the European Union, countries of the European Free Trade Association, NATO member states, as well as with Australia, Brazil, and New Zealand.
Special Rules for Children
More flexible rules apply to minors. A child can have dual citizenship even with a country that is not on the list of states with which Latvia recognizes dual citizenship.
Upon reaching the age of 18, such a citizen must decide which citizenship to retain by the age of 25. If they choose Latvian citizenship, they must provide a document confirming the renunciation of the second citizenship. If foreign citizenship is retained, an application for renunciation of Latvian citizenship should be submitted.
How Long Does the Procedure Take
The procedure for loss and restoration of citizenship is regulated by the Cabinet of Ministers' rules No. 975. After submitting a complete set of documents, a decision is usually made within one month.
Before submitting the application, it is important to ensure that there are no debts to the state. Unfulfilled tax or other financial obligations may be a reason for refusal to terminate citizenship.
Additional information can be obtained from the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (PMLP): email: [email protected], phone: +371 67209400.
Leave a comment