Simplified Procedure for Changing Employers for Third-Country Nationals
Since July 10, third-country nationals in Latvia no longer need a new temporary residence permit when changing employers – only a new invitation from the employer is required. The amendments also clarify rules for Russian and Belarusian citizens after studies and on humanitarian grounds.
Changing Employers Without a New Residence Permit
Amendments to Cabinet Regulation No. 564 on Residence Permits, effective July 10, significantly simplify the process for third-country nationals changing employers. Previously, a new temporary residence permit was required. Now, only an invitation from the new employer is needed. After the invitation is approved or no later than 30 days after submission, the employer can start employing the foreigner. For holders of an EU Blue Card, employment may begin immediately after submitting the invitation application if the change occurs during unemployment or more than 12 months after the Blue Card was issued. If the foreigner is not a Blue Card holder and changes employers during unemployment, they may stay in Latvia until they can start the new job, even if the unemployment period has expired.
Content of Invitation Rejection and Cancellation Forms
The amendments introduce a new point 24.1, specifying the required content for the forms rejecting an invitation or canceling an approved invitation. The form must include information about the authority that made the decision, the decision date and number, details of the addressee, a statement of facts, the decision itself, applicable legal provisions, and appeal instructions. This ensures compliance with the Administrative Procedure Law.
Clarifications for Russian and Belarusian Citizens
The amendments also address Russian and Belarusian citizens. When applying for a temporary residence permit for nine months after completing a master's or doctoral program or a research project, they must now submit a copy of their diploma or confirmation of project completion. If the document is not yet available, they must provide proof of study progress, but the diploma copy must be submitted within two months of receiving the permit. Additionally, the procedure for the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (PMLP) to provide an opinion to the Minister of the Interior on applications based on humanitarian grounds has been clarified, including for Russian and Belarusian citizens.
