Education and Science Ministry urges universities to strengthen their responsibility in admitting foreign students
Riga, Latvia – Latvian authorities are moving to tighten regulations surrounding international students, particularly those from outside the European Union. Proposed amendments to both the Immigration Law and the Higher Education Law aim to increase oversight of the admissions and study processes at Latvian universities.
Increased Scrutiny for International Students
The Ministry of Education and Science (MES) is proposing several key changes. A student expelled from a Latvian higher education institution would be required to return to their home country before reapplying to study in Latvia. A minimum average grade of 60 percent in relevant subject areas is being considered as a new requirement for admission.
Universities could face restrictions on future recruitment if more than 30 percent of their previously invited students are denied visas. New regulations from the Cabinet of Ministers will also mandate internationally recognised English language proficiency certificates and require students to demonstrate at least an A2 level of proficiency in Latvian.
University Responses and Strategic Shifts
Riga Technical University (RTU) has already begun to adjust its internationalization policy. The university is focusing on attracting higher-quality students and prioritizing safety, while also shifting towards recruiting more students from the EU, EEA, and countries with established economic ties. RTU is also increasing entrance exam requirements and aiming to increase the number of Masters and PhD students.
RTU Rector Talis Juhna stated the university’s goal is to rank among the top 500 universities internationally. The university is actively reducing its intake of students from outside of Europe.
Data from the Central Statistical Office shows around 4,000 mobility students began their studies at Latvian universities in the 2025/2026 academic year, a 2.4 percent increase from the previous year. Currently, approximately 11,900 students studying in Latvia received their prior education abroad, with the majority pursuing degrees in social sciences, business, healthcare, and STEM fields.
The largest groups of international students come from India, Uzbekistan, Sweden, Ukraine, and Germany. Almost half of all mobility students attend either RTU or Riga Stradins University.
The Ministry of the Interior is also proposing amendments to the Immigration Law, including a requirement for universities to notify the State Border Guard within three days – reduced from the current 14 – if a third-country student is absent from lectures without justification. These proposals are currently before the Saeima for a third reading.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of these proposed changes?
The proposals aim to strengthen the supervision of the study process for foreign students and increase the responsibility of Latvian universities in the admission and study process.
What will happen if a university invites too many students who are later refused visas?
The university could be prevented from inviting new students if more than 30 percent of those previously invited have been refused a visa.
From which countries do most international students come to study in Latvia?
Most students come to Latvia from India, Uzbekistan, Sweden, Ukraine and Germany.
As Latvia continues to refine its approach to international education, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact the diversity and growth of its student population. Will these stricter regulations lead to a more focused and successful international student experience?