Lithuania continues to struggle with excessive migration, which is why it recently adopted new rules for the employment of foreigners. Find out what has changed in the country for employers and expats since July 1

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The Lithuanian authorities are actively working on improving the procedure for employment of foreigners in the country, because they are trying to minimize the abuse of migration procedures. The state also wants to provide appropriate protection to expats and increase the responsibility of employers.

About new restrictions for foreign workers and employers in Lithuania, which were approved from July 1, 2024 onwards.

The requirements for temporary residence permits have been changed

- Foreigners staying in Lithuania on the basis of a visa-free regime, a national or Schengen visa or a residence permit issued by another country must now obtain a temporary residence permit in Lithuania if they want to work. Previously, this requirement was not required.

Importantly! The new policy does not apply to citizens of Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the United Kingdom and the United States.

- Foreigners who arrived in Lithuania before July 1, 2024 can continue to work without obtaining a temporary residence permit for the period of their legal stay.

More stringent education and work experience requirements to qualify for a lower minimum wage threshold

- Low-skilled foreign workers who do not have the appropriate educational qualifications for the position or at least one year of work experience in the last 3 years must now receive a salary equal to the average monthly salary in Lithuania.

- Employees who meet these criteria have the right to receive the minimum wage.

The category of low-skilled workers includes workers who are not holders of an EU Blue Card, holders of a residence permit for skilled activities, etc.

Changes to the number of employers

Foreign citizens can now work for no more than four employers at the same time; whereas previously they could work for an unlimited number of employers under a multi-employer contract.

To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.

The requirements for the procedure of changing the employer have been strengthened

- Low-skilled foreign workers can now change employers only six months after receiving a temporary residence permit; whereas previously they were not limited to the terms of the change of employer.

- Highly skilled foreign workers (eg EU Blue Card holders) can continue to change employers immediately after arrival.

Changes for Blue Card holders

EU Blue Card holders can now do additional work, separate from that for which they were originally hired.

New obligations to employers

- Licensing and reporting obligations: Employers must now have the appropriate licenses to employ foreign workers. In addition, they are required to report any changes in the employment status or personal details of their foreign workers.

- Mandatory full-time employment: to curb possible abuses, Lithuanian employers are required to offer full-time jobs to foreign workers. Thus, this regulation aims to ensure that employment is not fragmented and provides greater stability for foreign workers.

Lithuania's introduction of new employment rules for foreign workers will make its migration policy more stringent. Of course, employers and foreigners will need some time to adjust to the changes. However, the country continues to be an attractive place for foreigners to work.

We will remind you! Professions aimed at protecting and preserving the environment are becoming more and more popular every year. Read more about the best "green" careers to work abroad in 2024 in this article.

Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

To ensure a safe trip abroad, I advise you to contact a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations while traveling around the world.

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