RESIDENCE PERMIT IN LITHUANIA
The aspiration to move to one of the most developed countries of the European Union may forever remain an immigrant's pipe dream. Europe's internal problems, including the migration crisis, the UK's exit from the EU and a number of other issues, are forcing local governments to reconsider attitudes towards foreigners and tighten laws. However, you don't have to stop at successful countries like Germany, France or Belgium.
Yes, the standard of living and wages in Lithuania are not the highest in the EU. Nevertheless, the country is developing steadily, GDP is growing, and the government is making a lot of efforts to support a favourable investment climate. Obtaining a residence permit in Lithuania is a prerequisite for foreigners from third countries (from outside the EU) who expect to stay in Lithuania for a long period of time. Accordingly, there must be a specific reason to apply for the document.
About the ways of obtaining a residence permit in Lithuania in 2024, the list of documents and requirements for foreigners will be discussed further in the article.
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How to get a residence permit in Lithuania
Lithuania is a small country with a population of about 2.7 million people. However, the number of foreigners permanently residing on Lithuanian territory is not so high compared to other EU countries. The most numerous ethnic groups are Poles, Russians, Belarusians and Ukrainians. About 8 per cent of local residents are fluent in Russian.
In order to obtain a residence permit in Lithuania it is necessary to have a legal basis for it. Most often foreigners move for employment, education, business and family reunification. The presence of a foreigner's property in Lithuania does not give an automatic right to residence permit. Nevertheless, it will allow obtaining the so-called multi-visa with the right to stay in Lithuania for up to six months without interruption.
Basically, the process of obtaining a residence permit in Lithuania is carried out in the immigrant's country through the Lithuanian Consulate. The decision on granting a temporary residence permit is made by the Lithuanian Migration Department. The procedure may take from 3 to 6 months. Initially, the residence permit in Lithuania is issued for one year with the right to extend it up to 5 years. After that it is possible to obtain the status of permanent resident, and after continuous residence in the country for 10 years of Lithuanian citizenship.
Grounds for issuance of residence permit in Lithuania
Residence permit in Lithuania for the purpose of employment
Employment in Lithuania is one of the most popular ways for foreigners to obtain a residence permit. Similar to other EU countries, this requires finding an employer in advance, applying for a work permit and opening a Lithuanian work visa. The main difficulty is competing with locals and Europeans, for whom a work permit is not required.
Within a month a vacancy is posted at the local labour exchange and if there are no candidates, a foreigner can get a job. The decision to issue a work permit is made within 60 days at the latest. Mostly drivers, engineers, construction workers and agricultural labourers are required in Lithuania. The average salary is about 1,100-1,200 euros per month (after taxes).
Residence permit in Lithuania for the purpose of studying at a university
Obtaining a quality education in one of the Lithuanian universities opens the way to successful employment not only in this country, but also in other developed countries of Europe and the world as a whole. Upon entering a Lithuanian higher education institution, a foreigner is granted a residence permit. Many Lithuanian universities offer education in English.
Medical and technical specialities are the most popular among foreigners. The cost of education on average ranges from 1,000 to 5,000 euros per year, while for living in Lithuania a student is quite enough up to 600 euros per month. A secondary school certificate and language skills are required for admission to a Lithuanian university, but much depends on the programme of study and the institution.
Residence permit in Lithuania for the purpose of doing business
The investment climate in Lithuania has improved significantly in recent years. The country has a fully qualified labour force, a favourable geographical location and a dynamic market economy. Local authorities encourage foreign entrepreneurs willing to open their own companies in Lithuania. There are plenty of business areas in the country, including industry, agriculture, tourism and information technology.
The main requirements for entrepreneurs from third countries to obtain a residence permit in Lithuania for the purpose of doing business are to open a company that has been operating in the country for at least 6 months and to employ at least 3 local citizens. According to the Doing Business agency, Lithuania ranks 11th out of 190 countries in terms of accessibility of opening and ease of doing business, and the tax rates are among the lowest in Europe.
Residence permit in Lithuania for the purpose of family reunification
One of the ways to immigrate to Lithuania and apply for a residence permit is the procedure of family reunification. Who can apply for a residence permit in Lithuania on the basis of family ties:
spouses (partners) of a Lithuanian citizen or a foreigner residing in the country for at least 2 years with a residence permit.
children whose parents have a Lithuanian passport and permanently reside in the country.
parents, if a child with Lithuanian citizenship or in refugee status with a permanent residence permit resides in Lithuania.
children, if parents of retirement age or disabled parents reside in Lithuania, provided that they have permanent residence status in the country.
Documents for obtaining residence permit in Lithuania
Completed application form.
Colour photograph (40x60 mm).
Identity document and copies. Usually a foreign passport is required.
Open and valid visa.
Proof of sufficient funds to live in the country (bank statement, employment contract, etc.)
Certificate of absence of a criminal record.
Confirmation of the grounds for registration of residence permit (e.g. employment, study, business).
Property documents for residence in Lithuania (lease, sale and purchase agreement).
Receipt of payment of the state fee.
Depending on the circumstances, employees of the Lithuanian Migration Office have the right to request additional information.
What gives a residence permit in Lithuania
Unimpeded movement within the Schengen area and a simplified mechanism for obtaining a visa to the developed countries of North America.
Access to European loans with attractive interest rates.
Possibility of employment in one of the Lithuanian companies or running your own business.
Quality education for the immigrant and family members.
Access to major European markets for goods and services.
High level of medical care and the right to social benefits.
Living in a beautiful European Union member state with prospects for a decent future.
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