Latvia is proposing stricter regulations for foreign students, including potential deportation for those expelled from universities and increased language requirements. The Ministry of Education and Science (MES) is seeking amendments to the Immigration Law and the Higher Education Law to enhance oversight of the international student process.
Strengthened Admission and Study Oversight
Proposed changes would require foreign students expelled from Latvian higher education institutions to return to their home country before reapplying to study in Latvia. A minimum average grade of 60 percent in profiling subjects will also be mandated. Universities could be restricted from inviting new students if more than 30 percent of previously invited applicants are denied visas.
The Cabinet of Ministers’ regulations will specify internationally recognized certificates for English language proficiency and require foreign students to demonstrate Latvian language skills at least at the A2 level.
Internationalization Strategy and University Responses
The ministry is developing a strategy for the internationalization of higher education, focusing on identifying target countries for student recruitment and utilizing data to assess the quality of education and track the employment outcomes of foreign graduates.
Riga Technical University (RTU) is also adjusting its internationalization policy, prioritizing quality, safety, and targeted recruitment. RTU is gradually decreasing the number of students from non-EU countries while increasing enrollment from the European Union, the European Economic Area, and countries with established economic ties. The university is also raising entrance exam standards and aiming to increase the proportion of Masters and PhD students.
RTU Rector Talis Juhna stated the university is focused on attracting talent and aspires to rank among the top 500 universities internationally. Currently, students from 106 countries attend RTU, comprising approximately one-fifth of the student body.
Current International Student Numbers
Approximately 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, according to the Central Statistical Office. A total of 11,900 students currently studying in Latvia received their prior education abroad, with the majority pursuing master’s and bachelor’s degrees in fields like social sciences, business, healthcare, and natural sciences.
The largest numbers of students originate from India, Uzbekistan, Sweden, Ukraine, and Germany. Roughly half of all mobility students are enrolled at RTU and Riga Stradins University.
Increased Oversight of Student Attendance
The Ministry of the Interior has also proposed amendments to the Immigration Law, requiring universities to notify the State Border Guard if third-country students unjustifiably miss lectures for at least three consecutive days, reduced from the current threshold of 14 days. These proposals, complementing an existing action plan for strengthening control over third-country nationals, have been submitted to the Saeima for a third reading.
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