Latvia has extended the deadline for applying for a residence permit for Ukrainian refugees

Since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, Latvia has become one of the important centers of support for Ukrainian refugees. The country’s authorities provide humanitarian aid, access to the labor market, education and medical services. An important component of this support is legal support, which guarantees the possibility of legal residence in the country.

Current situation with residence permits

On March 4, 2025, the residence permits issued to 15,000 Ukrainian refugees expired. However, Latvia, realizing the importance of the situation, decided not to limit the opportunities of Ukrainians to continue their legal stay in the country.

The Directorate of Citizenship and Migration Affairs of Latvia (PMLP) has officially announced that the acceptance of documents for the extension of a residence permit (PR) continues even after the official deadline. Information about this decision published on the official Facebook page of the Latvian Citizenship and Migration Board (PMLP). It is an important gesture of solidarity and support for Ukrainians who have found refuge in Latvia.

How to submit documents for the extension of the GNP

To avoid problems with legalization, PMLP urges Ukrainian refugees to urgently check the validity of their residence permit or visa and apply for its extension as soon as possible. There are several convenient ways to submit documents:

1. Electronically – with a digital signature to the e-mail address: pasts@pmlp.gov.lv.
2. By mail — to the address of the territorial office of the PMLP.
3. In person — at service centers of state bodies and municipalities.

It is important to note that submitting an application after the deadline will not result in an immediate loss of the right to residence. However, delaying this process can make it difficult to access social services and the right to work, so PMLP strongly recommends not delaying the registration process.

What are the benefits of extending GNP?

Extending a residence permit allows Ukrainian refugees to maintain access to:

• Labor market — Ukrainians can officially work in Latvia without additional permits.
• Social support — including benefits, access to medical services and housing programs.
• Education – children have the opportunity to study in local schools, and adults – to undergo professional retraining.
• Housing programs – legal stay opens opportunities to receive assistance in providing housing.

Tips for avoiding difficulties

• Update your documents early: Keep an eye on the expiration date of your documents to avoid administrative hassles.
• Consultation with specialists: if necessary, contact PMLP specialists or human rights organizations.
• Prepare all the necessary documents: this will speed up the process and avoid additional checks.

Latvia’s decision to extend the deadline for submission of documents for Ukrainian refugees is a vivid example of humanity and understanding. In difficult times for Ukraine, Latvia not only opened its borders, but also continues to actively support Ukrainians, helping them integrate into the new environment. This reaffirms that true European solidarity lies in action to support those who need it most.

Let every Ukrainian citizen in Latvia feel this support and find confidence in the future. After all, behind every document is not just a legal status, but the fate of a person who seeks security, a decent life and a future for his family.