Foreigners in Latvia can change employers without new residence permit

Changes to employer switching procedure

On Tuesday, July 7, 2026, the Latvian government adopted amendments to the "Regulations on Residence Permits" that significantly ease the ability of third-country nationals to change employers. The Ministry of the Interior explains that the aim is to clarify the national framework and ensure full compliance with the EU directive on a single application procedure for a combined residence and work permit.

How will employer switching work in the future?

Previously, foreign workers needed a new temporary residence permit when changing employers. Under the new rules, this requirement is eliminated – the employee can start working for a new employer as soon as the new employer submits a formal invitation. During the review of the invitation, the terms of the planned employment will be checked.

Special cases: Blue Card holders and unemployment periods

If the foreigner holds an EU Blue Card and has resided in Latvia for at least 12 months, or if the employer change occurs during an allowed unemployment period, the worker can start the new job immediately after the invitation is submitted. Other employees must wait until the invitation is approved, or if the review period is extended, no longer than 30 days from the date of submission.

Protection from forced departure due to procedure

The amendments also address situations where the allowed unemployment period expires while the new employer's invitation is being processed. In such cases, the person has the right to stay in Latvia until they are granted the right to start employment with the new employer. The Ministry notes that this prevents scenarios where individuals would have to leave the country solely due to administrative delays, even though new employment is already secured.