Latvia to increase base salaries for soldiers starting in 2027

The Latvian Cabinet of Ministers has approved regulations to increase the base salaries of soldiers. Starting in 2027, the base salary is provisionally expected to increase by an average of 190 euros before taxes. A further average increase of 147 euros per month before taxes is planned for 2028.

Currently, the minimum monthly salary for a soldier is 835 euros before taxes. The actual increase for individual personnel will vary depending on rank and years of service. The Ministry of Defence stated that these changes aim to strengthen the motivation of National Armed Forces personnel, improve competitiveness in the labor market, and retain experienced specialists.

The planned salary increases will be funded through the reallocation of internal resources within the defense sector. This includes reviewing and reducing certain bonuses and evaluating maintenance expenditures to align with government goals of reforming the compensation systems for state and local government employees.