It is possible that very soon Latvians will have to go themselves to pick up their ordered food. The Saeima intends to include a number of amendments in the new immigration law and other regulations that will significantly limit the ability of food delivery platforms to use courier services from citizens of third countries.
On March 23, the parliamentary investigative commission on identifying problems in the immigration sector summoned the leaders of the companies "Bolt" and "Wolt". Deputies received signals that citizens of third countries, hiding under the identities of other people, are working on these platforms, individuals who do not have legal grounds to stay or work in Latvia, and that there is no accounting for working hours, leading to issues with compliance with the requirements of the Food and Veterinary Service.
"Essentially, 'Bolt' and 'Wolt' facilitate the circumvention of restrictions and employment rules for immigrants. Various legal requirements are being bypassed, including through the services you provide," stated the chairman of the investigative commission, Janis Dombrava (National Alliance).
During the meeting, representatives of both companies attempted to refute these accusations, stating that they have implemented a number of requirements for couriers and monitor their compliance.
"It is clear that these companies operate in a gray area," noted Dombrava. A number of amendments are being prepared in the Saeima to close this loophole, including a ban on citizens of third countries working in Latvia as self-employed.
The concerns of entrepreneurs regarding the impact of these changes on the food delivery market were not taken into account during the parliamentary commission meeting.
