The government on Tuesday approved amendments prepared by the Ministry of Defence to the Military Service Law and the Service Pensions for Military Personnel Law, which will gradually increase the maximum age for active military service for certain categories of soldiers.
The amendments, developed at the Cabinet’s request, are intended to extend the maximum age limit for active service, taking into account the specific duties and ranks of military personnel.
For privates and lieutenants, the maximum service age will remain unchanged. Likewise, senior officers will not see changes, as their age limit already aligns with the general retirement age of 65 years. For other ranks, the maximum age for active service will be raised by one to five years, depending on the soldier’s rank.
The amendments to the Service Pensions for Military Personnel Law also introduce several adjustments to the pension system. The new provisions will explicitly state that service pension payments will be suspended if a recipient returns to employment or service in any position that grants eligibility for a service pension.
These changes will not apply to personnel who have already acquired service pension rights
by the time the new law enters into force.
The amendments are scheduled to take effect on the 1st of January, 2027, pending approval by the Saeima.
Following the Cabinet meeting, Defence Minister Andris Sprūds (P) told journalists that national security remains the top priority, noting that defence spending must move toward 5% of GDP. At the same time, the government must find ways within the budget package to reform the service pension system.
“The service pension is very important in the defence sector — it is a social guarantee for soldiers who serve 24/7,” the minister said.
“Service pensions will remain, but there will be legal clarity and gradual implementation. The main changes will take effect from January 2027, primarily for those who begin service as new recruits. For current soldiers, the changes will be gradual and partial, while for existing pensioners, they will not apply,” Sprūds explained.
As reported earlier, the Cabinet of Ministers on Monday held an extraordinary meeting and endorsed draft laws prepared by sectoral institutions, implementing the State Chancellery’s proposal to reform the service pension system — a plan conceptually approved by the government on the 2nd of September.
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