Riga, Latvia is implementing new restrictions on the employment of Russian and Belarusian citizens, resulting in recent dismissals from municipal companies and the state-owned railway company. These actions stem from amendments to the National Security Law adopted in June of last year.
Dismissals Across Sectors
Several municipal companies owned by the Riga City Council have dismissed employees. Rīgas ūdens Ltd terminated the employment of five Russian citizens, including a plumber and four operators at the Daugavgrīva Biological Treatment Plant. Rīgas siltums Ltd has also identified employees affected by the new law, with consultations underway regarding highly qualified engineering specialists.
Latvian Railways (LDz) has already terminated the employment of 13 Russian and Belarusian citizens and plans to terminate another 13 currently on long-term leave. Notably, in these cases, the company states that severance pay will not be provided in accordance with Latvian Labour Law.
Exceptions and Pending Decisions
LDz has requested individual permits from the State Security Service (VDD) for five employees possessing specialized skills currently unavailable in the Latvian labor market. These employees are also reportedly undergoing the naturalization process to obtain Latvian citizenship. They will continue their duties while awaiting a response from the VDD.
The Riga Maternity Hospital currently does not employ citizens of Russia or Belarus. Riga 2nd Hospital is still compiling relevant information, while Riga 1st Hospital, classified as an outpatient facility, is not subject to these requirements. Similarly, Rīgas satiksme and Rīgas meži are not considered critical infrastructure and are therefore unaffected.
The National Security Law stipulates that employment of Russian and Belarusian citizens in critical infrastructure is permitted only on an exceptional basis with authorization from a state security institution. The law came into effect on June 28th, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What constitutes critical infrastructure in Latvia?
Critical infrastructure refers to facilities, systems, or parts thereof located in Latvia that are essential for the performance of important public functions and for ensuring public health, safety, economic, or social welfare.
Are there exceptions to the employment restrictions?
Yes, Russian and Belarusian citizens may work in critical infrastructure on an exceptional basis with a separate authorisation from a state security institution.
What happens to employees terminated under this law?
In the case of Latvian Railways, the company explained that, in accordance with the Labour Law, severance pay is not applied.
As these regulations are implemented, it remains to be seen how Latvia will address potential workforce gaps in critical sectors and whether the State Security Service will grant exemptions for specialized personnel.
