Lithuania is a European country that is becoming increasingly popular among expats. Foreigners are attracted here by the booming economy and employment prospects. Find out what types of work visas are issued in Lithuania, the requirements and the procedure for obtaining them

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Lithuania is a Baltic country that has shown fantastic economic development in recent years and as a result attracts an increasing number of expats. A favorable business environment attracts professionals who want to build their careers here, and the high quality of life makes Lithuania an ideal place to relocate.

Advantages of moving to Lithuania

More and more expats are choosing to move to Lithuania due to the following advantages:

- Lithuania's economy is developing rapidly, especially in the fields of technology, manufacturing and renewable energy sources. This trend creates a great demand for qualified specialists.

- The education system of Lithuania produces highly qualified specialists in the field of engineering, IT and business, providing a reserve of personnel for employers.

- The cost of living here is much lower than in Western Europe, it provides comfortable conditions and the opportunity to save money.

- Rich history and culture make Lithuania an attractive place to live and work.

Which foreigners need to issue a visa to work in Lithuania?

Visa requirements for employment in Lithuania depend on the citizenship of a foreigner:

- EU/EEA citizens can work freely in Lithuania, but they must register their stay after three months.

- Non-EU/EEA nationals will need to apply for a work visa, work permit or residence permit to start working in Lithuania.

What types of work permits can be issued in Lithuania?

Depending on the specifics of work, foreigners in Lithuania can issue one of the following work permits:

1. EU Blue Card

A special visa designed for highly qualified professionals who are citizens of third countries. In order to obtain this permit, a foreigner must meet the following requirements:

- Have a higher education.

- Confirm the availability of at least five years of professional experience equivalent to a higher education.

- Have a valid job offer or contract with a Lithuanian employer.

- The salary level under the contract should be at least 1.5 times the average monthly salary in Lithuania.

- Your profession belongs to the list of professions that require high qualifications.

This temporary residence permit is valid for two years. The application must be submitted to MIGRIS (Lithuanian Migration Information System). In addition, the employer will have to contact the territorial division of the employment service to check whether your work meets the requirements of the labor department.

2. Intra-corporate transfer work visa

This is an intra-company transfer (ICT) permit. It is intended for employees of multinational companies who are transferred to a Lithuanian branch, subsidiary or branch of their current employer. Expat requirements:

- An employment contract with the company's head office, which was signed at least six months before the transfer.

- A valid job offer from a Lithuanian branch or branch.

- Confirmation that the position requires special knowledge or management skills.

An employee may be transferred exclusively to a managerial position or must have special skills that are crucial to the company's operations.

3. Lithuania work permit

One of the most common work visas you can get in Lithuania. The permit applies to a wide range of professions, but it requires the sponsoring of an employer and the approval of the Lithuanian authorities.

Requirements for obtaining a work visa to Lithuania:

- Job offer from a Lithuanian employer.

- Confirmation that the employer has conducted a labor market check and is convinced that there is no suitable candidate on the local market.

- Health insurance policy for the entire period of work.

- Confirmation of the availability of sufficient financial means to support oneself during the move.

4. Seasonal work permit

Temporary employment visa for sectors with seasonal demand such as agriculture, tourism and hospitality. This visa is ideal for individuals looking for short-term work opportunities in Lithuania, often for a few months. To obtain a permit, you must:

- Have a seasonal job offer from a Lithuanian employer.

- Confirm the availability of a place to live in Lithuania.

- Health insurance policy for the entire period of work.

- Confirmation of the availability of sufficient financial means to support oneself during the move.

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.

Step-by-step application procedure for a Lithuanian work visa

Step 1 – Get a work permit

The employer must apply for a work permit on your behalf.

Step 2 – Find the nearest Lithuanian embassy or consulate

Depending on your place of stay, find the nearest Lithuanian diplomatic mission where you will apply for a visa.

Step 3 – Fill out the visa application form

Provide all necessary information about your planned stay and work in Lithuania.

Step 4 – Come to the visa appointment

Attend an appointment at the Lithuanian embassy or consulate. Be prepared for an interview where you may be asked about your work and qualifications.

Step 5 – Collect the package of documents

Prepare all necessary documents, including your passport, work permit, proof of employment, and others.

Step 6 – Wait for the decision

Approximate list of documents for obtaining a work visa to Lithuania

The package of documents that must be submitted to obtain a work visa may differ depending on the type of expat citizenship permit, but the general requirements are as follows:

- Valid passport.

- Work permit issued by the Lithuanian authorities.

- Employment certificate (job offer or contract).

- Confirmation of the availability of a sufficient amount of funds for the move.

- Medical insurance.

- Completed visa application form.

How long does it take to issue a work visa to Lithuania?

It usually takes about two weeks to issue a work visa to Lithuania. However, you can start the application process six months before your planned trip to Lithuania. The sooner you apply for a work visa to Lithuania, the sooner you will receive a response to your application.

The cost of issuing a work visa to Lithuania

The cost of applying for a work visa to Lithuania is usually around 120 euros. Additional fees may apply for services such as document translation or expedited processing.

After moving to Lithuania

After entering Lithuania, you must apply for a temporary residence permit. For this, contact the Department of Migration in Lithuania.

You need to fill out an application for a temporary residence permit through MIGRIS (Lithuanian Migration Information System), as well as register your place of residence with the migration service, which will then send the data to the Registration Center.

Extension of Lithuanian work visa

A Lithuanian work visa is usually valid for one year with the possibility of extension. To extend your visa, you must reapply before your current visa expires and provide evidence of continued employment. After five years, you can get a permanent residence permit and Lithuanian citizenship.

Is it possible to move with the family?

Expats who have a valid work permit in Lithuania can move to the country with their family. For your family member to join you, they must apply for a family reunification visa. This visa will allow them to stay with you for the duration of your permit.

Lithuania is an attractive destination for job seekers from all over the world. By understanding the visa requirements and following the application process carefully, you will be able to successfully obtain a work visa to Lithuania and start your career here.

We will remind you! Lithuania continues to struggle with excessive migration and has recently adopted new rules for the employment of foreigners, including changes to the requirements for temporary residence permits and new obligations for employers. The new rules came into effect on July 1, 2024.

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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