Baltic Institute of Social Studies: Immigrants in Latvia

All in all, Latvia' s immigration policies do not facilitate immigration. There are relatively few immigrants in Latvia, but they do face many different obstacles which hinder their ability tointegrate into the country's society. According to the summary MIPEX index, Latvia is in last place among EU/EEC countries in terms of integration of immigrants. When we look at the main problems faced by immigrants in Latvia, we must find that a series of them apply not just to foreigners, but to all of Latvia's residents. Still, we must keep in mind the fact that because of their status and their lack of information, immigrants face a situation in which there are far fewer protections for them. It is necessary to make sure that the rights of immigrants are ensured at least at the minimal level, even if the situation is one in which the state's immigration policies do not facilitate immigration. The study shows that when it comes to procedures related to residence permits and to the accessibility of the labour market, third-country nationals face different experiences and opportunities. This depends on their status in Latvia. Those foreigners who have temporary residence permits which relate to jobs which they have been offered have fewer social protections vis-à-vis their employers...The one thing that brings all third-country nationals together, however, is the fact that their status is insecure, they have a lack of social guarantees, and because of a lack of information and language skills, they are unprotected in relation with various institutions. Accordingly, many are afraid of bureaucrats from the office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, as well as the Border Guard. Unfriendly attitudes on the part of these institutions simply increase the fears...Read more