In recent years, Latvia has become home to a growing number of people from abroad — including war refugees, employees, students, and families starting a new life here. Anyone who has ever relocated to a new country knows how challenging it can be to navigate an unfamiliar system — dealing with documents, accessing services, understanding education opportunities, the job market, learning the language, getting healthcare, and finding housing. Often, the information is scattered across various institutions, languages, and platforms. This is exactly why Latvia needs a one-stop agency.

The One-Stop Principle – A Human-Centered Approach

A One-Stop Agency is a model that brings together essential services and support in a single location. This means that people don’t have to search for information and help in multiple places — they receive it all in one accessible point. It significantly eases the integration process and reduces the risk of missing crucial support due to confusion or lack of clarity.

The One-Stop Agency operated by the Society Integration Foundation (SIF) ensures that newcomers to Latvia receive personalized assistance tailored to their situation: support with documentation, guidance toward education or employment opportunities, explanations of how to access healthcare and the social system, opportunities to learn Latvian, and understanding the local community.

A Benefit for Newcomers and Society as a Whole

A well-organized support mechanism enables faster and more effective integration of newcomers into public life, the labor market, and education. This, in turn, fosters a more inclusive society. It also eases pressure on state and municipal service providers, as questions are resolved in a coordinated and targeted manner.

Introducing a unified approach aligns with Latvia’s long-term integration policy and reflects international best practices. Similar One-Stop Agency systems already operate in many EU countries, contributing to higher satisfaction among newcomers and greater social cohesion.

SIF as a Support Point on the Path to Inclusion

Since January 2, 2023, the Society Integration Foundation has launched a One-Stop Agency service for foreigners living in Latvia. It is a place where everyone can receive answers, guidance, and direction for their journey in Latvia.

We believe that a human-centered, clear, and inclusive system is the path to a safe and cohesive society. The One-Stop Agency is a step in that direction.

Services of the Integration and Inclusion Agency are provided by the Society Integration Foundation within the framework of the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund’s project (Agreement No. PMIF/13.1./2022/1/01). The funding has been allocated by the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (75%) and Latvian State budget (25%).