The Latvian Ministry is allowing additional enlistments in the national defense service for young people due to high demand after the initial application deadline has passed.
The Latvian Ministry of Defense has announced that due to significant interest from young people and their parents regarding the national defense service, additional applications for the July enlistment will be accepted. The initial application period for the summer 2026 enlistment ended on January 14, but the ministry continues to receive inquiries from citizens who missed this deadline and wish to participate this summer.
Young individuals now have the opportunity to enlist for an 11-month service in the 36th Combat Support Battalion in Lūznava and in the Zemessardze Battalion in Skrunda (Mežaine military base). Additionally, there is a five-year service option available in the Zemessardze across four brigades—Riga, Vidzeme, Kurzeme, and Latgale. It's emphasized that voluntary enlistment for this year's July call does not subject participants to random selection for future drafts; thus, they can secure their position through this opportunity.
Moreover, volunteers who enlist will receive a monthly compensation of €600, which serves as an incentive for participation. Upon successfully completing their service, they may also qualify for budget-funded places in Latvian universities and colleges, both for full-time and part-time studies, highlighting the benefits and support available to those who choose to serve in the national defense operations.
