Page "Demographics of Latvia" Paragraph 8

In 2005, there were even fewer Latvians than in 1989, though their share of the population was larger-1, 357, 099 ( 58. 8 % of the inhabitants ).

People who arrived in Latvia during the Soviet era, and their descendants born before 21 August 1991, have to pass a naturalisation process to receive Latvian citizenship.

Children born to residents after the restoration of independence in 1991 automatically receive citizenship.

However, if both parents are non-citizens then the parents must take the extra step of choosing Latvian citizenship for their child — who is automatically entitled, but for whom citizenship is not automatic ( neither granted nor imposed ).