Latvia Reduces Assistance to Ukrainian Refugees: What Exactly Changes.

According to ТСН: The Saeima of Latvia has approved amendments to the law regarding the support of citizens of Ukraine, reducing a number of assistance measures for refugees and displaced persons.

Changes in Support for Ukrainian Refugees

The Latvian government has made important adjustments related to the support of Ukrainians who are in the country under temporary protection.

Financial assistance for employment is being canceled. The Ministry of the Interior no longer considers it appropriate to pay a one-time assistance of the minimum monthly wage for new employees and self-employed persons from Ukraine. This decision is due to the successful integration of refugees into the labor market and the existence of general mechanisms to support employment. However, the services of the State Employment Agency remain available to Ukrainians on par with Latvian citizens.

Reduction of transportation benefits. Free travel and baggage transportation on regional routes have been canceled. Now Ukrainians can receive benefits and discounts that are available to other relevant categories of passengers with state subsidies.

Changes in medical care. Citizens of Ukraine will no longer be exempt from co-payments for medical services. However, they continue to receive state medical services under the same conditions as other insured residents of Latvia.

Additionally, costs for registration and mandatory veterinary requirements for the pets of Ukrainian refugees will not be covered.

The flow of new registrations of Ukrainians remains stable — about 500-600 people per month. As of October 1, 2025, a total of 31,152 residents of Ukraine are officially registered in Latvia.

Recall that earlier the Latvian government approved amendments to the law that foresee the reduction of certain financial aids for the civilian population of Ukraine.

These changes in legislation indicate a shift in approach to social support for Ukrainian refugees amid the stabilization of their living conditions in Latvia. The country's authorities, observing the processes of integration, decided to optimize the services provided, leaving Ukrainians access to certain resources alongside Latvian citizens. Thus, further steps by the government may focus on ensuring stability for those who continue to remain in Latvia.