Lithuania offers various avenues for foreign nationals seeking employment within its borders, reflecting its growing economy and integration into the European Union. Navigating the immigration process involves understanding the specific visa and work permit requirements tailored to different types of employment and the applicant's nationality. The system is designed to facilitate the entry of skilled workers while ensuring compliance with national labor laws and immigration regulations.
For individuals from countries outside the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland, securing the appropriate authorization is a multi-step process that typically involves obtaining both a work permit (or a decision on compliance with labor market needs) and a national visa (Type D). The specific requirements and procedures can vary based on the nature of the work, the duration of stay, and the individual's qualifications.
Common Visa Types for Foreign Workers
Foreign nationals intending to work in Lithuania generally require a National Visa (Type D). This visa allows for stays exceeding 90 days within a 180-day period and is necessary for long-term residence and employment. While a Schengen Visa (Type C) permits short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period) for business meetings or initial exploration, it does not authorize employment.
The National Visa (Type D) is the primary route for foreign workers. It is typically issued based on a valid work permit, a decision from the Lithuanian Labour Exchange confirming the job meets labor market needs, or in certain cases, directly for highly qualified professionals under specific conditions.
| Visa Type | Purpose | Maximum Duration (Initial) | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Visa (D) | Long-term stay, work, study, family | Up to 1 year | Work permit, Labour Exchange decision, or other legal basis |
| Schengen Visa (C) | Short stay, tourism, business (no work) | 90 days in 180-day period | Proof of purpose, sufficient funds, travel insurance |
Work Permit Application Requirements and Procedures
Most non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need a work permit issued by the Lithuanian Labour Exchange (Užimtumo tarnyba) before applying for a National Visa (Type D). The employer plays a crucial role in this process, initiating the application for the work permit on behalf of the foreign national.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a Lithuanian or EU/EEA/Swiss citizen.
- The foreign national must possess the required qualifications, skills, and work experience for the specific job.
- The proposed salary and working conditions must comply with Lithuanian labor law.
Application Procedure:
- Employer Application: The Lithuanian employer submits an application for a work permit to the Lithuanian Labour Exchange. This involves providing details about the company, the job position, and the foreign national candidate.
- Labour Market Test: The Labour Exchange assesses the application, often conducting a labor market test to ensure no suitable local candidates are available.
- Decision: If approved, the Labour Exchange issues a work permit or a decision confirming the job's compliance with labor market needs (for certain categories like highly skilled workers).
- Visa Application: The foreign national then applies for a National Visa (Type D) at a Lithuanian embassy or consulate in their country of residence, submitting the work permit or Labour Exchange decision along with other required documents.
Required Documentation (for Work Permit Application by Employer):
- Application form.
- Copy of the foreign national's passport.
- Documents proving the foreign national's qualifications (diplomas, certificates).
- Documents proving work experience (employment records, reference letters).
- Employment contract draft.
- Employer's registration documents.
- Proof of efforts to find a local candidate (if applicable).
Processing Times and Fees:
- Work Permit: Processing by the Lithuanian Labour Exchange typically takes up to 7 working days for standard applications. For highly qualified workers, a decision on compliance with labor market needs can be faster.
- National Visa (Type D): Processing time at the embassy/consulate can vary but generally takes between 15 and 45 days.
- Fees: There is a state fee for processing the work permit application (paid by the employer). The National Visa (Type D) application also incurs a consular fee. Specific fee amounts are subject to change and should be confirmed with the relevant authorities or embassy.
Pathways to Permanent Residency
Foreign nationals who have resided legally in Lithuania for a continuous period, typically five years, may become eligible to apply for a permanent residence permit. This period requires holding valid temporary residence permits or National Visas (Type D) throughout.
Key Requirements for Permanent Residency:
- Legal residence in Lithuania for the required duration (usually 5 years). Absences from the country are permitted but subject to limitations.
- Proof of sufficient financial resources to support oneself and dependents.
- Proof of adequate accommodation in Lithuania.
- Knowledge of the Lithuanian language at a basic level.
- Knowledge of the Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania.
- Clean criminal record.
The application for permanent residency is submitted to the Migration Department in Lithuania. The process involves submitting extensive documentation proving compliance with all requirements.
Dependent Visa Options
Foreign nationals holding a valid temporary residence permit or a National Visa (Type D) based on employment in Lithuania can often bring their immediate family members to reside with them. Immediate family members typically include a spouse or registered partner and minor children (under 18 years old).
Application Procedure for Dependents:
Family members must apply for a temporary residence permit based on family reunification. The application is submitted to the Migration Department in Lithuania, often after arriving in the country on a National Visa (Type D) obtained for the purpose of family reunification.
Required Documentation for Dependents:
- Application form.
- Copy of passport.
- Documents proving family ties (marriage certificate, birth certificates).
- Proof of the sponsor's (the working foreign national's) valid residence permit and sufficient income/funds to support the family.
- Proof of adequate accommodation for the family in Lithuania.
- Health insurance.
- Clean criminal record certificates from the home country.
Processing times for dependent residence permits can vary, often taking several months.
Visa Compliance Obligations
Both employers and foreign national employees have significant obligations to ensure compliance with Lithuanian immigration and labor laws.
Employer Obligations:
- Ensure the foreign national has the legal right to work in Lithuania (valid work permit/Labour Exchange decision and National Visa/residence permit).
- Adhere to the terms of the employment contract and Lithuanian labor law regarding wages, working hours, and conditions.
- Notify the Lithuanian Labour Exchange and the Migration Department of any changes to the foreign national's employment status (e.g., termination of employment, change in position or salary).
- Maintain records related to the foreign national's employment and legal status.
Employee Obligations:
- Maintain a valid passport and residence permit/visa at all times.
- Comply with the conditions of their visa or residence permit (e.g., only work for the sponsoring employer, if applicable).
- Notify the Migration Department of changes in personal circumstances (e.g., change of address, marital status).
- Adhere to Lithuanian laws and regulations.
- Initiate the renewal process for their residence permit well before its expiry date.
Failure to comply with these obligations can result in penalties for both the employer and the employee, including fines, revocation of permits, and deportation.
