Since September 1, 2023, new requirements have been in effect in Latvia for foreigners applying for a permanent residence permit (PRP). These changes are primarily related to a mandatory Latvian language proficiency test, which is particularly relevant for citizens of Russia and Belarus.
In this article, we will explain what the new regulations apply to, how to pass the exam, who can receive a deferral, and what the consequences are for those who do not meet the conditions on time.

Who needs to take the exam?
Starting from September 2023, all foreigners who wish to:
* Extend their existing PRP
* Apply for a PRP for the first time must confirm their Latvian language proficiency at least at A2 level.

These requirements primarily apply to:
* Citizens of the Russian Federation
* Citizens of Belarus
* citizens of other non-European countries where simplified residency conditions previously applied

What is A2 level?
A2 level is a basic language proficiency level according to CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). This means that a person:
* Understands simple phrases and sentences
* Can talk about themselves, their family, purchases, and place of residence
* Understands the gist of simple dialogues on everyday topics
* Can read short texts and fill out simple forms
The exam consists of three parts:
* Listening
* Reading
* Speaking

What are the deadlines and exceptions? Although the rule came into effect on September 1, 2023, for some categories of Russian citizens, the deadline for extending permanent residency permits was extended until September 1, 2025.
The deferral applies to:
* Russian citizens who already held a permanent residency permit but did not have time to take the exam in 2023
* Individuals who officially registered as residents of Latvia before September 1, 2023
* Individuals with documented circumstances preventing them from taking the exam (e.g., illness, disability, age 75+)
Important: After September 1, 2025, further deferrals will not be possible — without the exam, permanent residency permits will be revoked.

What happens if you don't pass the exam? If a citizen of Russia or another country fails to pass the Latvian language exam and does not submit the documents on time, then:
A previously issued permanent residency permit may be revoked

The individual loses the right to permanent residency in Latvia

They are obliged to either leave the country or apply for a temporary residency permit

What to do in exceptional cases?
If an individual fails the exam due to valid reasons, it is possible to obtain a temporary residency permit for a period of up to 1 year. Such a permit is issued only in exceptional cases:

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✅ Participation in scientific projects

✅ Studies at Latvian educational institutions

✅ Severe illness

✅ Caring for family members with disabilities

✅ Other valid and documented reasons

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A temporary residence permit is issued once, and during this time, the foreigner is obliged to:
* Either pass the exam
* Or leave the country

Where and how to take the exam?
The exam can be taken at the Latvian State Education Content Centre (VISC) by submitting an application in advance.
How to register:
1. Fill out the form on the VISC website or contact the centre in person
2. Select the earliest available date
3. Prepare using the materials on the official portal
4. Bring your passport and payment receipt (if required)
The exam can be retaken – there is no limit to the number of attempts, but at least 30 days must pass between attempts.

What about pensioners and elderly people?
Elderly residents (especially those over 75 years old), people with disabilities, and those with chronic illnesses may be eligible for concessions:
* Exemption from the exam due to medical reasons
* Confirmation of status must be obtained from a doctor and submitted to the PMLP (Migration Service)

How to retain permanent residency?
If you wish to retain permanent residency in Latvia, you need to:
1. Apply for the exam in advance — especially if your permanent residence permit expires in 2025
2. Take Latvian language courses (A2 level) — this can be done in person or online
3. Pass the exam and receive a certificate
4. Submit documents to PMLP before the specified deadline

In 2025, knowledge of the Latvian language is no longer a wish, but a necessary condition for living in Latvia. The new regulations emphasize Latvia's desire to preserve its cultural and linguistic space.

For those who genuinely plan to reside permanently in the country, knowledge of the Latvian language will not only help maintain their status but also feel more confident in daily life.

Do you need help preparing for the exam, registering for the test, or with document consultations? Contact us — we will tell you where to study, how to apply, and how not to lose your permanent residency due to bureaucracy.

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