The Seimas of Latvia approved a deferment for passing the language exam for Russian citizens

The Seimas (parliament) of Latvia has approved amendments that extend by two years the period during which they can take the Latvian language exam for Russian citizens living in the republic. transmits Delfi.

Now Russians who did not pass or did not appear for a valid reason before September 1 for the exam to obtain a residence permit will be able to apply for a temporary residence permit for two years. During this period, the applicant undertakes to learn the language and successfully pass the test. As noted, applicants will retain the right to employment without restrictions and to receive services provided by the state, including pensions and benefits.

Develop such amendments earlier in August instructed Latvian government at a closed meeting. The head of the country’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, Maris Kucinskis, said then that about 10,000 Russians either did not pass the exam or did not send any documents at all. After September 1, all of them could receive an order to leave the republic – the Latvian parliament adopted the corresponding amendments to the law back in September last year.

Russian Foreign Ministry called These amendments are discriminatory and violate fundamental international legal norms. The Foreign Ministry also emphasized that all cases of discrimination against Russians and representatives of the Russian diaspora in Latvia are recorded. The ministry also helps the voluntary return of Russians to their homeland.

On September 5, the media reported that 61% of the 25,316 Russian citizens who signed up for the Latvian language exam did not pass it the first time. Commissioner for Human Rights Tatyana Moskalkova, commenting on these data, spokethat will appeal to the UN and the Council of Europe (CoE) because of the situation around the exam.