Work Permit/Visa in Lithuania

Before coming to Lithuania, a foreign national is obliged to obtain a work permit. This permit is issued and may be revoked by the Lithuanian Labour Exchange. An application for a work permit is processed within two months from the date of its submission.

A work permit is issued to foreigners in cases when it is not possible to find a suitable specialist with the necessary qualifications in Lithuania. The validity period of such a permit is limited to two years, the document specifies the employee’s speciality and the name of the organisation where he/she plans to work.

In the case of seasonal work, the work permit is granted for a period of up to six months.

Foreign trainees and interns may be granted work permits for up to one year, allowing them to gain professional experience in Lithuania.

Foreign nationals are exempted from the need to obtain a work permit in Lithuania if the following conditions are fulfilled:

An alien acquired or registered a company in Lithuania, becoming its owner and manager.
The foreigner holds a managerial position in a company with a share capital of at least 28,000 euros and his main purpose of arrival is managerial work in that company.
A foreign national stays in Lithuania for up to three months per year to participate in negotiations necessary for the conclusion and fulfilment of contracts.
An alien works for a foreign legal entity from a World Trade Organisation member country and is transferred to Lithuania to work in a subsidiary, branch or representative office.

Requirements for foreigners intending to work in Lithuania:

At least one year of work experience under an employment contract in a legal institution.
The position held must be a management position or the specialist must have specific knowledge required for the company’s operations.
The duration of employment of a foreigner in Lithuania is limited to three years, but this restriction does not apply to company executives.

A work permit may be cancelled in the following cases:

Obtaining a permit by deception.
Termination of employment contract.
Cancellation of residence permit.

All labour relations are regulated by the Labour Code, laws of the Republic of Lithuania and European Union regulations.

Temporary residence permit in Lithuania

A temporary residence permit in Lithuania is usually issued for a period of up to one year. On the basis of this permit, a foreigner can obtain a national visa type D in his/her country of origin. The peculiarities of the process of obtaining a temporary residence permit are as follows:

In cases where a foreigner has a work permit, as a rule, a temporary residence permit is not required.
A foreigner does not need to declare residence or wait for a decision on the issuance of a temporary residence permit, which is a faster option for processing documents.
It is important to obtain a work permit before coming to Lithuania. Otherwise, the Lithuanian Labour Exchange may refuse to issue it.
The national visa process takes approximately 15 days.

These conditions help to simplify and speed up the procedure of entry and stay in Lithuania for foreign nationals planning to work or stay in the country for a long period of time.

Procedure for issuing a work permit in Lithuania

The procedure for issuing a work permit in Lithuania includes the following steps:

Employer’s application: The employer must submit an application to the local branch of the labour exchange and register the vacancy. The open vacancy must be advertised for at least 14 calendar days to allow local candidates to respond to the job offer.
Labour exchange check: After receiving all the necessary documents from the employer, the labour exchange carries out a check to ensure that the employer meets all the requirements, including the legality of the employer’s activities, the absence of information about bankruptcy and other relevant aspects. This verification is necessary to confirm the reliability and legality of the business.
Decision-making: Territorial units of the Lithuanian Labour Exchange examine the application and attached documents within one month from the date of submission of the application. Depending on the results of the check and the availability of suitable candidates among the local population, the labour exchange makes a decision to issue or refuse to issue a work permit to a foreign citizen.

This procedure ensures transparency and compliance with the rules for hiring foreign specialists, facilitating compliance with Lithuanian labour legislation.

No need to assess labour market needs

In the context of Lithuanian migration policy, there are simplifications for foreign specialists whose professions are on the list of in-demand professions. These simplifications significantly facilitate the process of employment and residence in Lithuania:

Professions from the list of in-demand professions: Foreign nationals whose professions are included in the list of in-demand professions may enter Lithuania with only a national visa. Labour market needs assessment is not required in such a case, which speeds up the process of obtaining a work permit.
Paying a salary above the national average:
- If the employer undertakes to pay a foreigner a salary equal to or exceeding three average gross monthly salaries (before taxation) and employ him/her for a period of more than one year, the foreigner may apply for an EU Blue Card. This card confirms the right to reside and work in Lithuania.
- A residence permit in such cases is issued in one month in general or 15 days in urgent cases.
Highly trained professionals:
- Highly qualified foreigners who are promised a salary of at least 1.5 times the gross national average monthly salary are also eligible for a temporary residence permit.
- Applications for such authorisation shall be processed within two months under the general procedure or one month under the urgent procedure.

These provisions make it possible to attract qualified foreign specialists to the Lithuanian labour market by simplifying visa and residence permit procedures, which facilitates the integration of foreigners into the country’s economy.

Procedure for issuing a work permit in Lithuania

The process of issuing a work permit in Lithuania is structured to ensure compliance with the legislative and economic interests of the country and to attract qualified foreign specialists. Here is a detailed description of the issuance procedure:

Application and registration of the vacancy: The employer must apply to the local labour exchange and register the vacant job. The vacancy must be publicly advertised for at least 14 calendar days to ensure that the information is available to potential candidates.
Verification of documents and compliance with requirements: Before issuing a permit, the Labour Exchange carries out a thorough check of the documents provided by the employer and the compliance of its activities with Lithuanian legislation. This includes checking for bankruptcy and other aspects of the legality of the activity.
Issuance of the work permit: After checking and confirming that all requirements are met, the labour exchange and its regional offices issue the work permit. This process usually takes no more than one month.

No need for labour market needs assessment:

Foreign citizens who have a temporary residence permit and whose profession is on the list of in-demand professions are exempted from the requirement to assess labour market needs.
The same exemption is granted to foreigners who have graduated from higher or vocational education institutions in Lithuania, which facilitates their integration into the local labour market.

These measures are aimed at facilitating the recruitment of foreign specialists in sectors where there is a shortage of qualified personnel and encouraging foreign students to stay and work in Lithuania after graduation.

Who does not need to obtain a work permit in Lithuania?

There are certain categories of foreign nationals in Lithuania who do not need to obtain a work permit. This simplifies the process of their employment and integration into Lithuanian society. Such categories include:

Family members of Lithuanian and European Union citizens:
- Third-country nationals who are family members of citizens of the Republic of Lithuania and who have obtained a temporary residence permit or a residence permit within the framework of family reunification.
- Citizens who have received a family member card of a European Union citizen, confirming the right to temporary or permanent residence.
Citizens of the European Union and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA):
- These citizens are free to work in Lithuania without the need to obtain additional authorisations.
Highly trained professionals:
- Aliens working in professions included in the list of professions in demand in the Republic of Lithuania.
- Foreigners earning a salary of at least three average gross monthly salaries (currently €2,629.20).
- Aliens who have worked in Lithuania for two years as a highly qualified specialist and apply for the extension of a temporary residence permit.
Graduates of Lithuanian educational institutions:
- Foreigners who have graduated from a higher or vocational education institution in Lithuania and intend to work in accordance with the obtained qualification. They need to submit a diploma or other document confirming the qualification.
Specialists in certain fields:
- Professions such as drivers of vehicles for international transport of goods, assemblers of metal ship hulls, seamstresses, assemblers of metal structures, concrete workers, tilers, roofers, electricians, facade workers, bricklayers and plasterers are included in the list of in-demand professions and allow working without a special work permit.

These measures are aimed at stimulating the inflow of skilled foreign workers, as well as simplifying procedures for their entry and stay in the country.

Work in Lithuania

In recent years Lithuania has been attracting more and more foreign specialists due to its economic growth and open labour market. The employment process in this country differs significantly for EU citizens and third-country nationals.

For EU citizens: Citizens of the European Union and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) do not need a work permit to work in Lithuania. This is ensured due to the rules of free movement of labour within the EU, which makes the recruitment process easier and faster.

For third-country nationals: For citizens from countries outside the European Union, the employment process in Lithuania requires more thorough preparation. As a rule, it is necessary to obtain one of the following authorisations:

Work permit: This is a document issued by the labour exchange or other authorised body that confirms the right of a foreigner to take up a certain job in Lithuania. Obtaining a permit is often connected with checking that there are no suitable candidates from among Lithuanian or other EU citizens on the local labour market.
Decision on the relevance of the foreign job to the needs of the labour market: This is especially important for highly qualified specialists whose professions are on the list of in-demand professions. In such cases, the authorities assess whether the proposed work meets the current needs of the Lithuanian economy.

In addition, a temporary residence permit or a residence permit is required for long-term stay and work, which allows foreigners to stay and work legally in the country. Obtaining these documents also requires proof of a legal source of income sufficient for living in Lithuania and the absence of a criminal record.

These procedures ensure the legal and controlled stay of foreign workers, contributing to the sustainable development of the economy and the supply of labour for important sectors.

A work permit and a decision on the suitability of the foreign job to the needs of the Lithuanian labour market?

The differences between a work permit and a decision on the suitability of a foreign job for the needs of the Lithuanian labour market lie in the purpose of these documents, their validity periods and procedures for obtaining them.

Work Permit:

Purpose: This document allows foreigners to work in Lithuania and is the basis for obtaining a national work visa.
Validity Period: Usually issued for one year.
Application: The work permit allows you to apply for a national work visa, which is required for business travellers, seasonal workers and ship crew members.
Conditions of stay: With a work permit, a foreigner can work for up to three months on a Schengen visa or visa-free regime.

Decision on the relevance of the foreign job to the needs of the labour market:

Purpose: This document confirms that the work to be performed by the alien corresponds to the economic needs of Lithuania and cannot be performed by local resources.
Term of validity: Issued for a period of up to two years.
Application: On the basis of this document, the foreigner can apply for a residence permit, which is necessary to start working.
Working conditions: A foreigner can start working only after obtaining a residence permit.

Special conditions for highly qualified specialists:

Highly skilled professionals applying for an EU Blue Card do not need a decision on the suitability of the job for the labour market. The EU Blue Card is a document that allows highly skilled workers from third countries to work and reside in any EU country (except Denmark, Ireland, and the UK), and it includes a work permit and a residence permit in one document.

These differences highlight the different role of each document in regulating labour migration and integration of foreign workers into the Lithuanian economy.

Qualification requirements for aliens in Lithuania

In order to obtain a work permit or a decision to meet the needs of the Lithuanian labour market in Lithuania, aliens must meet one of the following qualification requirements:

Relevant qualifications: The foreigner must have professional or academic qualifications that are relevant to the requirements of the job to be performed. This means that the level of education and specialisation must be suitable for the tasks and duties to be performed.
Work experience: A minimum of one year of relevant work experience in the last three years is required. This shows that the candidate has relevant knowledge and skills that can be applied in a new job in Lithuania.
Salary level: The foreigner is expected to be paid at least the latest published average monthly gross salary in the national economy. This indicator reflects the general economic situation in the country and ensures that the foreign worker receives a decent wage comparable to that of local professionals.

These requirements help to ensure that foreigners invited to work in Lithuania make a positive contribution to the country’s economy and that they have the necessary knowledge and skills for their positions. They also contribute to fair working conditions and competition in the labour market.

The process of issuing a work permit or eligibility decision

The process of issuing a work permit or deciding whether to meet the needs of the Lithuanian labour market is a key element in the regulation of labour migration in Lithuania. Here are the steps to be taken by the employer and the foreign worker:

For the employer:

Registering a vacancy: An employer must register a vacant workplace with the Lithuanian Employment Service. This is the first step to start the process of searching for candidates both among locals and foreign workers.
Priority to local candidates: When registering a vacancy, priority is given to Lithuanian citizens, other EU citizens, as well as foreigners with a permanent residence permit in Lithuania. If no suitable local candidates are found, the employer may proceed to the next step.
Applying for a permit: The employer completes and submits an application to the Labour Office for the issuance of a work permit or a decision on eligibility for a specific foreign worker.
Consideration of the application: The TE Office considers the application and makes a decision within seven working days.

For the foreign worker:

Obtaining a permit: An alien must obtain a work permit before starting work or concluding an employment contract in Lithuania. This ensures that all procedural requirements are met and the alien’s work in Lithuania is legal.
Having permits at the same time: It is important to note that a foreigner can only have one valid work permit at a time.

This process helps to ensure compliance with Lithuanian and European laws on the employment of foreigners, promotes the protection of workers’ rights and maintains a balance in the labour market by preventing uncontrolled influx of foreign workers.

In Lithuania, there are certain cases when foreign nationals are not required to obtain a work permit or a decision on the suitability of the foreign job to the needs of the labour market. Here are the main categories that do not require it:

EU and EFTA citizens: Due to the European Union’s rules on freedom of movement, EU and EFTA citizens can work in Lithuania without additional permits.
Foreigners with permanent residence permit: These persons have already undergone the procedure of integration into Lithuanian society and economy, which entitles them to work without special permits.
Family members of Lithuanian citizens: If a foreigner is a family member of a Lithuanian citizen and has obtained a residence permit on the basis of family reunification, he/she does not need a separate work permit.
Students: Foreigners who have obtained a residence permit on the basis of their studies in Lithuania may work without authorisation within certain limits.
Specialists in scarce professions: If the alien’s profession is included in the list of professions for which there is a shortage of qualified workers in Lithuania and if the quota has not been exhausted, such an alien does not need a work permit.
Highly paid professionals: If the foreigner’s salary is at least three average monthly salaries before taxes.
Trainees: Foreigners who have come to Lithuania for an internship.
Remote workers: Foreigners working remotely for a company registered in Lithuania.
Candidates for the Blue Card: This document allows highly qualified specialists to work in Lithuania without a separate work permit.

Additional steps after obtaining authorisation

After obtaining the work permit or the relevant decision, the employer must enter the data into the MIGRIS system via an intermediary letter, which is the basis for the foreigner to apply for a national visa or residence permit. If the foreigner has several employers, the first employer submits the intermediary letter, but all employers must fulfil the conditions for granting a temporary residence permit.

National visa (D) in Lithuania

The national visa type D in Lithuania provides foreigners with the possibility to enter and stay in the country with certain restrictions and conditions. Here are the main aspects concerning this visa:

Validity Period: The visa is issued for a maximum period of one year. It allows foreigners to stay in Lithuania for a longer period of time for study, work or other reasons.
Stay in the Schengen area: The holder of a national D visa may stay in other Schengen countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This allows some freedom of movement within Europe, but with a limit on the length of stay.
Identification number: Aliens staying in Lithuania on a national visa D are not issued a personal identification number, which limits access to some public and commercial services.
Registration of residence: Holders of this visa cannot declare their place of residence in Lithuania, which may be a significant restriction for those planning a long-term stay.
Health insurance: Foreigners on a national D visa are not insured under the Lithuanian compulsory health insurance (CMI) system, which requires them to purchase private health insurance to cover possible medical expenses.
Self-employment: The National D visa does not grant the right to self-employment, limiting business opportunities.
Change of employer: Foreigners staying in Lithuania on a national visa D cannot change employers. This makes their situation dependent on one employer, which may limit their flexibility in the labour market.

These conditions make the national D visa a suitable choice for those who plan temporary but not permanent residence in Lithuania, while visa holders should be prepared for certain restrictions on their rights and opportunities in the country.

Residence permit in Lithuania

A residence permit in Lithuania is an important document that allows foreigners to legally reside and work in the country for a long period of time. Here are the key aspects related to obtaining and operating a residence permit:

Key Features:

Duration: A residence permit can be granted for a period of one to three years and depends on the reason for granting it, such as employment.
Place of application: An application for obtaining or cancelling a residence permit can be submitted either abroad through an external service provider or at a branch of the Migration Department in Lithuania.
Rights and obligations: A residence permit grants the right to reside permanently in Lithuania for the duration of its validity, including the right to work and the possibility to declare residence. In addition, the holder of a residence permit receives a personal identification number, which facilitates access to various public and commercial services.
Stay in the Schengen area: As with a national visa, the holder of a residence permit may stay in other Schengen countries for up to 90 days in each 180-day period.
Additional requirements: A residence permit requires the submission of additional documents, such as a criminal record certificate and an obligation to declare residence in Lithuania.
Extension possibility: A residence permit may be extended after its expiry, provided that the foreigner complies with the law and there are grounds for extension.
Insurance and self-employment: The holder of a residence permit is automatically insured under the Compulsory Health Insurance (CHI) system and has the right to self-employment, although self-employment alone is not a basis for the issuance of a residence permit.

Special Conditions:

If the residence permit is issued on the basis of employment, the employer is obliged to notify the Migration Department of the termination of the employment relationship with the alien within seven working days. In case of termination of the employment relationship, the residence permit may be cancelled and the alien will have to leave Lithuania, unless he/she finds another reason to extend his/her status.

If a foreigner is in Lithuania on a national visa type D issued on the basis of employment and plans to continue his/her activity in the country after the visa expires, he/she needs to apply for a residence permit in advance. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Application deadlines: The application for a residence permit should be submitted to the Lithuanian Migration Department 2-4 months before the expiry of the national visa. This is necessary to ensure continuity of the right to reside and work in Lithuania, taking into account the time required to process the application.
Required Documents: A number of documents will be required to apply, including but not limited to:
- A valid passport and copies of its pages.
- Proof of employment, including a contract of employment.
- Certificate of absence of a criminal record.
- Confirmation of financial solvency.
- Documents proving the place of residence in Lithuania.
- Health Insurance.
Application process: The application can be submitted in person at the Migration Department office or through accredited intermediaries. It is important to ensure that all documents are fully compliant to avoid delays or refusal of the residence permit.
Transition from visa to residence permit: National visa D allows preparing the basis for further obtaining a residence permit, which will provide greater rights and opportunities for long-term stay in Lithuania.

These steps will help a foreigner to smoothly transition from temporary visa to long-term residence on the basis of employment in Lithuania, ensuring compliance with all migration requirements and legislation of the country.

Company in Lithuania UAB offers comprehensive legal services for foreigners facing various migration situations in Lithuania. Here are the main areas of the company’s work:

Support for immigration to Lithuania:
- Assistance in obtaining a national D visa, which is intended for long-term stay in the country for the purpose of work, study or family reunification.
- Obtaining a temporary or permanent residence permit, which entitles you to long-term residence and access to the labour market.
- Preparation and submission of documents for obtaining a work permit, which is necessary to legalise the employment of foreigners in Lithuania.
Legal aid for illegal immigrants:
- Representing aliens staying in Lithuania illegally in cases where a decision to return has been taken against them. This may include appealing against such decisions, assisting in drawing up documents for legalisation of status or resolving problems with entry bans.
- Assistance with the paperwork and procedures that may enable irregular migrants to legalise their stay in the country.
Assistance to asylum seekers:
- Legal support of the asylum request process, including preparation of necessary documents and representation of interests in migration services.

Company in Lithuania UAB aims to provide legal support at all stages of the immigration process, from initial counselling to obtaining all necessary permits and formalising the relevant status in Lithuania. This includes both support for those who are planning their stay in the country and those who have encountered migration challenges and difficulties already on the territory of Lithuania.

If you are planning to come to Lithuania or are already here legally and want to stay for more than 90 days within 180 days, you need to apply for one of the following documents:

National visa (D): This visa is suitable for long stays and can be issued on various grounds:
- Family reunification: for spouses, children, partners in a registered partnership.
- Employment: on the basis of an employment contract with an employer registered in Lithuania.
- Education: for students, teachers, researchers.
- Activity in business: for managers, shareholders of companies.
Temporary residence permit (TRP): This status allows long-term residence and work in Lithuania and can be issued on the basis of:
- Business: for example, if you are a manager or shareholder of a company.
- Employment: including highly skilled professionals who may be issued a Blue Card.
- Education: for learners and researchers.
- The HUD is issued for a period of up to 2 years with the possibility of extension.
Work permit: Issued by the Employment Service and required for the employment of foreigners who do not fall under the category exempted from the obligation to obtain this permit.

Additional Services:

Counselling on migration issues: Especially relevant for citizens of Ukraine and other countries who need to prepare and submit documents for obtaining a HLP or national visa.
Assistance in preparing documents for obtaining or extending a HUD residence permit: This includes gathering necessary documents such as proof of sufficient income, housing, health insurance and other required paperwork.

If you are interested in legalising your status in Lithuania or need assistance in employing foreign specialists, professional legal services can significantly facilitate this process and speed up obtaining the necessary permits.

Requirements for obtaining residence permit in Lithuania on the basis of employment

In order to obtain a residence permit in Lithuania on the basis of work, the following requirements must be met and a certain process must be followed:

Applicant Requirements:

Availability of a job offer from a Lithuanian employer: It is necessary to have a confirmation that there is an employer in Lithuania who is ready to employ you.
Qualifications and work experience: Proof of professional qualifications (diploma, certificate) and at least one year of work experience in the last three years. Alternatively, a salary of at least a certain amount is required (e.g. € 2014 gross in 2024, the amount may change annually).
Criminal record certificate: This document must be provided in the original and is valid for six months from the date of issue.

Apostilisation and legalisation of documents:

Documents issued by state institutions must be apostilled or legalised, except for documents issued in Ukraine and Moldova.

The process of applying for a residence permit:

Document preparation: Takes one to three weeks.
Consideration of documents: The Migration Department reviews documents within 1.5 or 3 months.

Practical Aspects:

Submission of documents: To apply for a residence permit, it is necessary to appear in person at the Migration Office in Lithuania. Once the documents are submitted, the presence of the alien in Lithuania is not required and the final document can be received by the alien in person or through a proxy, e.g. an employer.
Preparation of documents: It is required to obtain the employer’s contacts, electronic copies of all necessary documents and information from the foreigner.
Process supervision: Includes registration of documents in electronic systems, registration of visits for document submission and card receipt, as well as correspondence with the Migration Department in case of questions arising in the course of document processing.

This process requires careful preparation and attention to detail to ensure that all requirements are met and that the process goes smoothly. Contacting professionals who specialise in migration issues can make this task much easier.

Employment of foreigners in Lithuania

The process of employment of foreigners in Lithuania requires a work permit, which is issued by the Lithuanian Labour Exchange. This process involves several steps and requirements aimed at convincing that a foreigner is actually needed to perform a job for which there are no qualified local or EU candidates.

Steps for obtaining a work permit in Lithuania:

Registering a job vacancy: The employer must register the job vacancy with the local labour exchange. This is the first step to enable local or EU citizens to respond to the job offer.
Applying: If local candidates do not respond, the employer may apply for a work permit for a foreigner. The application must include:
- A copy of the foreigner’s arrival document.
- A copy of a diploma or other document confirming qualification.
- A copy of a document of professional experience.
- For regulated occupations, a copy of the authorisation to recognise professional qualifications.
Documents from the employer:
- Confirmation of the need to use a foreign worker.
- List of dismissed employees for the last three months with reasons for dismissal.
- Certificate of employment of foreigners in the enterprise, indicating the functions, wages and taxes paid.
Consideration of the application: The territorial labour exchange analyses the labour market and, on the basis of the data obtained, decides whether to issue a work permit.

Permit validity period:

A work permit in Lithuania is issued for a period of up to 2 years and may be extended if the employment relationship between the employee and the employer continues.

This process ensures that foreign workers are recruited legally and that candidates from Lithuania and the EU are favoured whenever possible.

What professions are lacking in Lithuania in 2024?

The Employment Service of the Republic of Lithuania provides accurate information on the lack of occupations in Lithuania every six months.

According to the data of the first half of 2024, the following specialists were most lacking in Lithuania:

Computer scientist
Cook
Farm operator
Builder of buildings (using traditional materials)
A property developer with a broad profile
Concrete Worker
Concrete Worker
Installer of prefabricated building structures
Road repairman
Ship’s plumber
Installer of technological pipelines and devices
Plumber
Ventilation pipe fitter
Plumber
Ship’s hull painter
Metalwork painter
Spot welder
Manual electric welder
Gas welder
Electric welder
Gas electric welder
Welder
Metal ship hull assembler
Metalworker for assembling metal structures
Metalwork erector [erector]
Locksmith
Automatic line operator
General machinist
Metalworking machine operator
Metal grinder
Metal polisher
Automotive fitter
Repair mechanic, repair mechanic, repair mechanic
Electrical fitter
Blacksmith-welder
Sorter of products, semi-finished products and materials
Building electrician
Electrician
Electrician
Electronic equipment installer
Installer of electronic devices for signalling systems
Meat slicer
butcher
Preparer of fish semi-finished products
Pastry chef
Baker
Pastry chef
Packer {food industry}
Preparer of semi-finished products
Manufacturer of dairy products
Food sorter
Tailor
Tailor
Hairdresser
Shearer
Tailor (sew the individual parts together)
Shearer
Upholsterer of upholstered furniture
Machine operator for the production of plastic products
Machine operator for the production of plastic products
Operator of a polythene bag making machine
Carpet cleaning equipment operator
Meat processing plant operator
Food production line operator
Paper production shop operator
Paper sorter
Hot spot operator
Filling and packing machine operator
Packer operator
Packaging equipment operator
Electronic component assembler
Bus driver
Trolleybus driver
Driver of an international freight transport vehicle
Mechaniser
Lorry driver

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

In order to stay in the Republic of Lithuania for more than 90 days, foreign nationals need to obtain appropriate documents that allow long-term stay. Here are the main types of documents that grant such a right:

National visa (D): This is a type of visa that is issued for long-term stay in Lithuania. A national visa is usually issued for a period of up to one year and can be granted for various purposes, including work, study, family reunification or participation in cultural events. This visa can also be issued for the period of processing an application for a temporary residence permit.
Temporary residence permit (TPL): A temporary residence permit grants the right to reside in Lithuania for a period of one to five years and may be extended. A residence permit can be obtained on the basis of employment, business activities, studies, family reunification or other grounds established by the Lithuanian legislation.
National visa for the duration of the residence permit application: If a foreigner applies for a residence permit, he/she can be granted a national visa for a maximum period of up to 5 months while his/her application is being processed. This ensures legal stay in the country during the entire review process.

To apply for a national visa or residence permit, a number of documents must be submitted, including but not limited to:

Application and Questionnaire.
A valid passport.
Photos.
Documents confirming the purpose of stay (e.g. employment contract, invitation from an educational institution, documents confirming family ties).
Certificate of absence of a criminal record.
Proof of financial solvency and availability of housing in Lithuania.
Health Insurance.

Obtaining these documents requires careful preparation and compliance with all procedural requirements, so it is not uncommon for applicants to seek assistance from specialised legal or migration agencies.

A national visa in Lithuania, known as a D-type visa, is usually issued for a period of up to one year. This visa allows a foreigner to enter and stay in Lithuania for a specified period of time and to travel within the Schengen area for up to 90 days within each 180-day period.

Re-issuance of a national visa: If a foreigner has already used a multiple-entry national visa for a period of one year, a new multiple-entry national visa may be issued no earlier than 180 days after the expiry of the previous visa. This rule is intended to prevent continuous residence on consecutive national visas, thus ensuring compliance with Schengen policy, which is not intended for continuous residence on short-term visas.

These restrictions emphasise the importance of planning for persons wishing to spend a significant amount of time in Lithuania and may require switching to other types of permits, such as temporary or permanent residence permits, for long-term stays and work in the country.

To apply for a national visa to Lithuania, you should contact the Lithuanian visa authority abroad or through an accredited external visa service provider. Here are the main steps and guidelines for the application:

Find the nearest Lithuanian embassy or consulate: An application for a national visa is usually submitted to the Lithuanian diplomatic mission in the country of your current residence or citizenship. A list of embassies and consulates can be found on the official website of the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or through an internet search.
Check the legal status requirements: You can apply if you have documents proving your legal status in the country where you are applying. This may be a residence permit, a long-term visa or other forms of residence permit.
Document Preparation: You will need to prepare the necessary package of documents, including:
- Completed visa application.
- A valid passport.
- Photographs that meet the requirements for the visa.
- Documents proving the purpose of the trip (e.g. invitation from an employer, educational institution or documents proving family ties).
- Proof of residence in Lithuania.
- Insurance covering the entire period of stay.
- Proof of financial solvency.
Apply to a visa application centre: In some countries Lithuania may cooperate with external service providers who process visa applications. This may simplify the application process for residents of certain regions.
Applying in person: It is usually necessary to apply in person at a consulate or visa application centre. In some cases, pre-registration is possible.
Consular Fee: A consular fee must be paid at the time of application, the amount of which may vary depending on the type of visa and the purpose of travel.

Specific requirements and application procedure can be clarified directly with the Lithuanian diplomatic mission or on their official website, as well as with an external service provider, if available.

A temporary residence permit (TRC) in Lithuania is usually issued for a period of one to three years, depending on the grounds for obtaining it. The validity period of a TRC may vary and is determined according to the nature of your activity or the status on the basis of which the permit is issued. Here are some examples of the grounds for issuing a TRC and its validity period:

Employment: If a TRC is issued on the basis of employment, its term is usually the same as the term of the employment contract, but not more than three years.
Study: For students, TRC is usually issued for the period of study, usually for one academic year with the possibility of extension.
Family Reunification: In case of family reunification, TRC can be issued for two or three years, depending on the circumstances.
Business activities: For foreigners doing business in Lithuania, TRC can be issued for one or two years with the possibility of subsequent extension upon successful operation of the company.
Protection or other humanitarian grounds: In such cases, TRC can also be issued for one year with the possibility of extension depending on the circumstances.

A temporary residence permit may be issued for a shorter period of time if there are special circumstances that require temporary stay in Lithuania for a period of less than a year.

Upon expiry of the TRC, it can be extended if the conditions under which the permit was originally issued remain valid and if the applicant has complied with the legislation during his/her stay in Lithuania. The extension procedure includes submission of relevant documents and evidence that the grounds for extension remain valid.

To obtain or renew a temporary residence permit (TRC) in Lithuania, the following steps should be followed:

Step 1: Submitting an application through the MIGRIS system

Preparation of the application: The application for issuance of TRC is submitted electronically through the Lithuanian Migration Management System, MIGRIS.
Documents: You will need to upload all necessary documents into the system. This includes, for example, proof of your right of residence (e.g. employment contract, study invitation, documents proving family ties, and so on).

Step 2: Booking a time to visit

After submitting an electronic application via MIGRIS, you will need to book a time for a personal visit to one of the territorial offices of the Lithuanian Migration Department or, if you are abroad, to a Lithuanian embassy or consulate.

Step 3: Filing the documents in person

Visit to the migration office/embassy: At the appointed time, you will have to appear in person at the selected office of the Migration Department or embassy to submit original documents and biometric data.
Biometrics: This usually includes the surrender of fingerprints and a photograph.

Step 4: Waiting for a decision

After submitting all the required documents and data, your application will be processed by the Migration Department. The processing time may vary, but it usually takes from several weeks to several months.

Additional information:

Deadlines: You must submit your TRC application or renewal within four months of the date it is filed in the MIGRIS system.
Location: If you are in Lithuania, you visit your local migration office. If you are outside Lithuania, your point of contact will be the nearest Lithuanian diplomatic mission.

This process ensures that all documents and data are properly checked and your right to reside in Lithuania is formalised in accordance with local law.

In order to apply for a permanent residence permit in the Republic of Lithuania, it is necessary to fulfil certain requirements established by law.

Eligibility for an EU long-term resident’s residence permit:

Total period of residence: A person is entitled to apply for a permanent residence permit after continuous residence in the territory of the Republic of Lithuania for 5 years on the basis of a temporary residence permit.
Exclusions from the five-year period: The five-year period does not include periods of residence on the basis of:
- Visa-free regime;
- Any type of visa, including Schengen visa;
- A temporary residence permit issued by another EU or Schengen country.
Periods of residence for students and trainees: If a person has stayed in Lithuania on the basis of a temporary residence permit related to study or further education, only half of the period of stay is included in the five-year period, unless a study programme is completed and a higher education qualification is obtained in the Republic of Lithuania. After completion of a study programme and obtaining a higher education qualification in Lithuania, the entire period of study may be counted.
Persons granted subsidiary protection: For persons granted subsidiary protection, the period of stay includes half of the time elapsed between the date of submission of the asylum application and the date of issuance of the temporary residence permit, or the entire period if it exceeds 18 months.

Conditions for interruption of the term of residence:

A person may temporarily travel abroad, but the duration of the trips must not exceed 6 consecutive months and 10 months cumulatively within a five-year period.
The period of residence shall be interrupted for the period of serving the sentence imposed by the court.

Special cases for persons applying for a residence permit on the basis of family reunification:

If a person enters the Republic of Lithuania together with a citizen of the Republic of Lithuania as a member of his/her family, he/she may apply for a permanent residence permit. For this purpose, it is necessary to prove that the person lived with a citizen of the Republic of Lithuania in another state and moved to Lithuania together with him/her for permanent residence. At the same time, the entry must be from a non-EU/EFTA country.

Taking into account the above provisions, a person should carefully assess the periods of his/her stay in the Republic of Lithuania and their compliance with the statutory requirements before applying for a permanent residence permit.

To obtain a temporary residence permit (Temporary Residence Card, TRC) in the Republic of Lithuania, the applicant must submit the following package of documents:

A valid travel document:
- Passport or other document proving the applicant’s identity and citizenship.
Documents confirming financial solvency:
- Bank statement or employment contract proving sufficient funds for living in the Republic of Lithuania.
Document of residence in the Republic of Lithuania:
- Proof of residence in the territory of Lithuania. This document may be submitted after the decision to issue a temporary residence permit has been made.
Certificate of absence of a criminal record:
- A document confirming the absence of a criminal record, if the applicant is 14 years of age or older.
Health Insurance:
- A health insurance policy with a coverage of at least 6,000 euros, which is valid in the territory of the Republic of Lithuania.
Documents proving legal residence at the time of application:
- Visa, valid temporary residence permit or asylum seeker card if the application is submitted in Lithuania.
Documents confirming the grounds for issuing a temporary residence permit:
- These documents depend on the specific basis for TRC, e.g. labour contract for employment, study contract for training, etc.

It is important to note that the specific list of required documents may vary depending on the applicant’s individual situation and the basis for obtaining a temporary residence permit. For an accurate assessment and preparation of a complete set of documents, it is recommended to contact qualified lawyers who can provide a full list of documents and provide additional assistance in the application process.

In order to obtain a Lithuanian national visa (type D), the applicant must submit the following documents:

A completed visa application form:
- Application for a national visa filled out in accordance with the requirements of the consulate or embassy of the Republic of Lithuania.
Photo:
- One current colour photograph that meets the requirements for visa documents (usually 35×45 mm, face should occupy 70-80% of the frame).
A valid travel document:
- A passport valid for at least 3 months after the expected date of departure from Lithuania, containing at least two blank pages.
Documents confirming that you have sufficient funds to live on:
- Bank statement, employment contract or other document confirming that the applicant has sufficient financial means to reside in the territory of the Republic of Lithuania.
Health Insurance:
- A health insurance policy with a minimum cover of €30,000 valid in the Schengen area. The policy must cover emergency medical treatment and repatriation for medical reasons.
Documents confirming the basis for issuing a national visa:
- Depending on the purpose of the visit, different documents may be required, such as:
  - For employment: employment contract with an employer in Lithuania;
  - For studies: invitation or letter of enrolment to an educational institution;
  - For business: documents proving registration of business or investment in Lithuania;
  - For family reunification: documents proving family relations and legal status of a family member in Lithuania.

It is important to remember that the specific list of documents may vary depending on the purpose of the trip and the individual circumstances of the applicant. In order to determine the exact documents required and to successfully complete the national visa application procedure, it is recommended to contact lawyers specialising in migration issues for advice and assistance in preparing documents.

The most common grounds for issuing Lithuanian national visas (type D) are as follows:

Employment:

Work permit: The applicant must have a work permit issued by the Lithuanian Employment Service.
Intermediary letter: An invitation or intermediary letter from an employer confirming the intention to employ the applicant in Lithuania is required.
Objective: Long-term work in Lithuania.

Education:

Purpose: Studying in a Lithuanian educational institution (university, college, etc.), the duration of which usually does not exceed 1 year.
Mediation letter: The educational institution must submit an intermediary letter through the Lithuanian Migration Information System (MIGRIS).
Documents: Proof of enrolment in the study programme and sufficient funds to live in Lithuania are required.

legal activities:

Manager or shareholder of a company: A visa may be issued to the manager or shareholder of a company registered in the Lithuanian Register of Legal Entities.
Company requirements: The company must have been established at least one year prior to the visa application and its capital (or assets for non-public joint stock companies and private joint stock companies) must be at least €28,000.
Purpose: Business management or participation in the company’s activities in Lithuania.

Other legal grounds:

Family reunification: A visa may be issued on the basis of family reunification with a Lithuanian citizen or a person holding a residence permit in Lithuania.
Scientific or research activities: For persons engaged in scientific research or involved in projects within scientific or educational institutions.
Volunteering: Participation in volunteering programmes registered in relevant state registers.
Special programmes and events: Participation in cultural, sports and other events organised in Lithuania.

These grounds are the most common but not exhaustive. Depending on the specific circumstances and purpose of the visit, there may be other grounds for obtaining a national visa. It is recommended to consult with a lawyer specialising in migration issues to determine exactly which grounds are appropriate and to prepare the necessary documents.

The grounds for issuing a temporary residence permit in Lithuania (TRC) include:

Family Reunification:

Purpose: Living with close relatives who are Lithuanian citizens or permanently residing in Lithuania.
Examples: A residence permit may be issued to the spouse, minor child, parents of a Lithuanian citizen or a person with a permanent residence permit.

Employment:

Purpose: Work on the territory of Lithuania under a labour contract.
Requirements: The applicant must have a work permit issued by the Lithuanian Employment Service confirming that his/her work meets the needs of the Lithuanian labour market. It is necessary to submit a labour contract with the employer.

Education:

Purpose: Long-term study in a Lithuanian higher education institution.
Requirements: An intermediary letter submitted by the educational institution through the Lithuanian Migration Information System (MIGRIS) must be submitted. The study programme must last more than one year.

legal activities:

Purpose: To manage or participate in the activities of a company registered in Lithuania.
Requirements:
- The company must have been in operation for at least 6 months prior to the application for a residence permit and carry out its activities in accordance with its constituent documents.
- The company must employ on a permanent basis citizens of Lithuania, other EU or EFTA member states, or foreigners permanently residing in Lithuania, and their total salary must be at least two average monthly salaries in Lithuania for the last quarter, according to the data of the Department of Statistics.
- The company’s equity capital (or assets) must be at least €28,000, of which at least €14,000 must be invested by the director or constitute his assets.
- In the case of a joint stock company (AB or UAB), at least 1/3 of the company’s capital must be owned by the applicant.

These are the most common grounds, but there are also other grounds for issuing a temporary residence permit, such as participation in volunteering programmes, scientific research, participation in cultural and sporting events, and others. It is recommended to consult a lawyer specialising in migration issues to determine the exact grounds and to prepare the documents.

If an alien’s stay in the Republic of Lithuania is recognised as unlawful, measures aimed at his/her return to the country of origin or another foreign state are applied. Lithuanian legislation provides for two types of decisions that may be taken depending on the circumstances of the case:

Decision on the return of the alien to a foreign country:

The essence of the decision: The alien is given an opportunity to leave Lithuania voluntarily within a fixed period of time.
Time limit: The applicant has 7 to 30 days from the date of service of the decision to leave the Republic of Lithuania voluntarily.
Procedure: The alien is obliged to leave the country on his/her own within a specified period of time. Failure to do so may result in stricter measures such as forced expulsion.

Decision on expulsion of an alien from the Republic of Lithuania:

The essence of the decision: If the circumstances or behaviour of the alien require more severe measures, a decision may be taken to forcibly remove him or her.
Entry into force: The expulsion decision enters into force 14 days after it has been served on the alien, unless the alien appeals against it in due course.
Enforcement: After the decision enters into force, its enforcement is entrusted to the Lithuanian State Border Guard Service. Expulsion is enforced if the alien does not leave the country voluntarily.

Additional Implications:

Entry ban: Depending on the circumstances of the case and the seriousness of the offence, an alien may be banned from entering Lithuania and other Schengen countries for a certain period of time.
Fines and other sanctions: In addition to expulsion, administrative fines and other sanctions provided for by law may be applied.

It is important for an alien to realise that failure to comply with the requirements stipulated in the decision may significantly complicate further attempts to legally enter and stay in Lithuania and other EU countries. Therefore, if such a situation arises, it is recommended to immediately seek legal assistance to assess possible actions and appeal against the decision, if necessary.

Yes, the period within which an alien is obliged to leave the Republic of Lithuania may be extended, but only in exceptional circumstances. However, even if there are exceptional circumstances, the total extension period may not exceed 60 days from the date of the return decision.

Possible grounds for extension:

Medical reasons: If the foreigner cannot leave the country due to a health condition confirmed by medical documents.
Family circumstances: For example, the need to care for a close relative who is critically ill.
Force Majeure: Unforeseen events such as natural disasters, border closures, political conflicts and other circumstances that objectively prevent you from leaving the country.

Renewal Procedure:

Applying: The foreigner or his/her representative must apply for an extension of the deadline to the authorised body, explaining the reasons and providing relevant evidence.
Consideration: The Authorised Body shall consider the application and take a decision to extend or refuse to extend the deadline.
Notification: The applicant is notified of the decision and if the extension is approved, the new departure date is indicated in the decision.

It is important to note that the decision to extend the period is of an exceptional nature and is at the discretion of the competent authorities. At the end of the extended period, the alien is obliged to leave the Republic of Lithuania, unless otherwise provided by law.

The main differences between the decision to return an alien and the decision to expel an alien from Lithuania are the following aspects:

the grounds and nature of the decisions:

Decision on the return of the alien:
- Nature: This is a measure applied when an alien is given an opportunity to leave Lithuania voluntarily within a set period of time (from 7 to 30 days).
- Grounds: Applies in cases where the alien’s stay is recognised as illegal, but there are no grounds for coercive measures such as expulsion.
- Voluntary: The foreigner is obliged to leave the country on his/her own, without the use of coercive measures.
The decision to expel an alien:
- Nature: This is a coercive measure applied to an alien who must leave Lithuania but is unable to do so voluntarily or when his behaviour requires stricter measures.
- Grounds: Applicable in cases of gross violation of the law, repeated violation of the conditions of stay or if the foreigner poses a threat to public order and security.
- Compulsory: An alien may be forcibly removed from Lithuania if he/she fails to fulfil the requirements of voluntary departure.

Prohibition of entry:

Decision on the return of the alien:
- Entry ban: In most cases, if an alien leaves Lithuania voluntarily within the prescribed time limit, no entry ban is imposed to Lithuania and other Schengen countries.
- Consequences: This decision does not usually have serious legal consequences for future trips to Lithuania.
The decision to expel an alien:
- Entry ban: In case of expulsion, an alien may be banned from entering Lithuania and other Schengen countries for up to five years.
- Consequences: Forced expulsion significantly complicates subsequent attempts to obtain a visa or residence permit in Schengen countries.

Detention of an alien:

Decision on the return of the alien:
- Detention: It is not normally envisaged that an alien will be detained in special institutions.
The decision to expel an alien:
- Detention: In case of expulsion, an additional decision may be taken to detain the alien at the Alien Registration (Detention) Centre until the expulsion is finalised. This is necessary to ensure enforcement of the expulsion decision.

4 Enforcement of judgements:

Decision on the return of the alien:
- Enforcement: The foreigner must independently execute the decision by leaving the country within a specified period of time.
The decision to expel an alien:
- Enforcement: The enforcement of the decision is entrusted to the Lithuanian State Border Guard Service, which organises the alien’s departure from the country.

Thus, a decision on return implies a more lenient approach, allowing the alien to leave Lithuania voluntarily, while a decision on expulsion involves more severe measures, including possible detention and a ban on re-entry.

The period of prohibition to enter the Republic of Lithuania starts to run from the moment of actual execution of the expulsion decision, i.e. from the date when the alien leaves the territory of Lithuania. The ban is usually imposed for a period of up to five years, depending on the nature and gravity of the offence and other circumstances of the case.

Possibilities for reducing or cancelling the entry ban:

In some cases, it may be possible to reduce the period of the entry ban or to lift it altogether. This depends on a number of circumstances that may be considered sufficient to warrant a review of the earlier decision. Such circumstances include:

Marriage to a citizen of the Republic of Lithuania:
- Marriage to a Lithuanian citizen may serve as a ground for revision of the entry ban, as it may change the alien’s legal status and his/her connection with Lithuania.
Birth of a Lithuanian citizen child:
- If an alien gives birth to a child who is a citizen of the Republic of Lithuania, this may also be grounds for applying for reduction or cancellation of the entry ban.
Other Exceptional Circumstances:
- In exceptional cases, other circumstances may be taken into account, such as the health condition of the alien or his/her close relatives, the need to care for a family member staying in Lithuania or other humanitarian reasons.

Petition Procedure:

Assessment of the situation: The foreigner must gather evidence to prove the existence of circumstances that may serve as grounds for reconsideration of the entry ban.
Preparing the application: Based on the evidence gathered and an individual assessment of the situation, an application for a reduction or cancellation of the entry ban is prepared.
Submission of the application: The application shall be submitted to the relevant competent authority that issued the entry ban. This may be the Migration Department or other authorised body.
Examination of the application: The authority examining the application evaluates all the documents submitted and the circumstances of the case. If the application is granted, the period of prohibition may be reduced or cancelled altogether.

Recommendation:

In order to successfully consider an application for reduction of the entry ban or its cancellation, it is important to properly prepare the documents and competently argue your position. In this case, it is recommended to seek the assistance of lawyers specialising in migration law, who will be able to assess the individual situation and represent the interests of the applicant before the authorities.

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