What is Return migration?
Return migration (also referred to in Latvia as remigration) is when a person comes back to live in their country of origin after spending time abroad. This may happen by choice (for example, due to family, work, or quality of life) or as a result of external circumstances. Simply put, it is the journey back home after living or working in another country. In Latvian legislation (the Diaspora Law), it is defined as follows:
- Return migration – the return or relocation of a member of the diaspora from permanent residence abroad to permanent residence in Latvia.
- Diaspora – Latvian citizens, Latvians, and others who reside permanently outside Latvia and have a connection with Latvia, as well as their family members.
Who is a return migrant?
Although Latvian legislation does not provide a specific definition of a return migrant, based on the definitions of diaspora and return migration above, a return migrant is a person from the Latvian diaspora who has lived abroad, has a connection with Latvia, and has returned or relocated back to live in Latvia. Simply put, this is a person who has come back home to Latvia after living abroad, as well as their family members.
Who is responsible for return migration in Latvia?
According to the Diaspora Law, diaspora-related matters in Latvia fall under the responsibility of several ministries, depending on their areas of competence. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs plays the leading role in cooperation with the diaspora. Other ministries are also involved in various ways; however, return migration issues are largely within the remit of the Ministry of Smart Administration and Regional Development.
The specific tasks assigned to responsible institutions regarding diaspora engagement and the promotion of return migration are set out in the planning document “Plan for Work with the Diaspora for 2024–2026”.
Network of Remigration Coordinators
To purposefully promote the return of Latvian nationals to their homeland, in 2018 the Ministry of Smart Administration and Regional Development, in cooperation with the planning regions, established a network of regional remigration coordinators. Each region in Latvia has its own coordinator, providing support to individuals who are considering or planning a return to Latvia.
Find out more about how remigration coordinators can support the return process.