Ukrainian citizens who have been forced to leave their country due to war can obtain temporary protection status in Latvia. The EU has extended it until 4 March 2028. Since 31 July 2026, first-time applicants must prove they have met their military service obligations in Ukraine or are exempt; if service has been deferred, protection is granted only until the date in the deferral document (Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, 12 August 2026). Protection is lost after a visit to Russia or the occupied territories of Ukraine. The status provides several important benefits:
✅ Legal residence status – the right to legally reside in Latvia for a specific period.
✅ Right to work – the ability to work officially without additional permits.
✅ Access to social support – benefits, medical assistance, and housing support.
✅ Education opportunities – access to schools, kindergartens, and universities on equal terms with local residents.
✅ Free movement – with a Latvian residence permit you may stay in other Schengen countries for no more than 90 days in total in any 180-day period.
What are the main steps to obtain temporary protection status in Latvia?
To successfully obtain this status, the following steps must be taken:
✅ Preparation of documents – a valid Ukrainian passport or another identity document; first-time applicants (since 31 July 2026) also need an exit stamp or an official document showing that they have met their military service obligations or are exempt.
✅ Submission of application – applying at the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA, PMLP in Latvian).
✅ Registration in Latvia – obtaining a residence permit with a temporary protection mark.
✅ Receiving social services – registering with relevant institutions for medical and financial assistance.
✅ Status renewal – monitoring legislative changes and renewing the status as necessary.
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