Residence Permit in Lithuania

Basic Information About a Temporary Residence Permit: Lithuania

In most cases, authorities issue residence permits to migrants for 1–2 years. However, in some situations, the period may be longer. For example, if a foreigner has the right to restore Lithuanian citizenship, their permit will be valid for 5 years. In all cases, residence permits can be extended, but the total term cannot exceed 5 years.

To apply, you must first submit the application electronically via Lithuania’s migration information system — MIGRIS. After that, the foreigner has 4 months to appear in person at the Migration Department. To obtain the permit, they must provide biometric data and a set of required documents.

When applying for a residence permit, the migrant must legally reside in Lithuania. The same applies at the time the ready permit is issued. Legal residence means holding a visa, or in some cases, using the visa-free regime if applicable. Migrants may also request a national visa from the Migration Department, valid for no more than 5 months.

Grounds for Obtaining a Residence Permit in Lithuania

If you are interested in Lithuania, you can obtain a residence permit based on specific grounds. The most common are:

• Family reunification (only close relatives — spouses, parents, children).
• Official employment with a Lithuanian company.
• Enrollment in an educational institution in Lithuania.
• Engagement in legal activities in the country.
• Restoration of Lithuanian citizenship.

Lithuania also grants residence permits to persons of Lithuanian origin, meaning applicants whose parents or grandparents were Lithuanians. In addition, the applicant must identify as Lithuanian and submit a written statement. Such foreigners may apply for a residence permit even if they never held Lithuanian citizenship before.

Ways to Obtain a Residence Permit in Lithuania

Requirements and validity periods depend on the grounds for residence. Below are the most popular options for legalization available to applicants.

Employment

To legally stay in Lithuania, a migrant must have a signed employment contract with a Lithuanian employer. The agreement must specify the employee’s salary and be valid for at least 1 year.

Residence permits may also be granted if the foreigner has a work permit or if their skills match the needs of Lithuania’s labor market.

Employers must also take certain steps, such as registering the vacancy with the Employment Service at the firm’s registered legal address.

Once approved, the residence permit will be valid for:

• 2 years — for regular employees.
• 3 years — for highly qualified specialists.

The permit can be extended, but the total term cannot exceed 5 years.

Family Reunification

If the migrant’s spouse or close relatives are Lithuanian citizens residing in the country, the migrant may apply for a residence permit. Proof must be submitted, such as:

• A marriage certificate, if the spouse is a Lithuanian citizen.
• A birth certificate, if one parent is a Lithuanian citizen.

This type of permit is usually issued for 1 year and can be extended once for another 2 years.

Education

Foreigners admitted to Lithuanian universities or colleges may apply for a residence permit. They must sign an enrollment agreement with the institution. If the applicant is under 18, parental consent is also required.

The permit is issued for 1 year and can be extended while studies continue. After graduation, the foreigner may apply again based on employment or internship.

Business and Investment

Lithuania offers favorable conditions for migrants seeking residence permits through investment. Business owners must establish a new company or acquire an existing one that has been operating for at least 6 months.

To qualify quickly, the required investment is €26,000 in company share capital. Additionally, the following conditions must be met:

• The company operates commercially for at least 6 months.
• At least 3 full-time jobs are created.
• All taxes and fees are paid on time.

Residence Permit in Lithuania: Cost

If you need help obtaining a residence permit, our experts are ready to assist. We will answer your questions, prepare documents, and submit the application on your behalf.

The cost depends on the grounds for residence and varies widely. Factors include:

• The list of required documents.
• Conditions for legalization.
• The number of interactions with the migration authorities.

For example, the cost may depend on whether the applicant engages in journalism, religious, sports, or creative activities.

Regardless of the grounds, we will help you legally obtain a residence permit in Lithuania. The exact cost of services will be provided during a personal consultation. Contact us via the Incluence website or message us on Instagram, Facebook, Telegram, Messenger, or WhatsApp.