Lithuania residence permit

With its membership in the European Union, Lithuania offers a very attractive immigration program that provides opportunities for foreigners to legalise their stay in the country through the acquisition of either temporary or permanent residence permits. This opens up a number of possibilities, from access to the labour market and business opportunities to freedom of movement within the Schengen area.

Lithuania residence permit types

Within the general context of immigration, there exist two major types of residence permits: temporary and permanent. A TPL is usually issued for one to five years, depending on both the grounds of stay and the category of applicants. Examples include for work, study, business, or family reasons. A permanent residence permit is issued for persons having resided in Lithuania for at least five years on the basis of a temporary residence permit and entails permanent residence.

Application procedure residence permit

The application or extension process for a residence permit in Lithuania is started with electronic registration through the MIGRIS. After filling in the electronic form, upon the booking of time, the applicant needs to appear in person either at the Lithuanian Migration Department or via the centres of the authorized agents, such as VFS Global, with regard to the personal lodging of documents.

Required Documents

Principal documents that are to be prepared for the application are as follows:

• A valid passport;
• Documents confirming the ground for the residence permit: the employment contract, business documents, study invitations;
• Confirmation of financial solvency;
• Health Insurance;
• A certificate of no criminal record.

Timing and cost

The standard procedure takes up to three months and the urgent one up to 45 days.

Business opportunities and residence permits

Quite an attractive option is a residence permit by investing in the economy of Lithuania or against the background of one’s own business organization. For foreign businessmen, all this is not only the way to legitimate their stay but also the chance to develop business in a stable economy with access to the European market.

The convenient and versatile pathways to immigration through different types of residence permits make Lithuania an extremely attractive choice for every foreigner willing to relocate, work, or conduct business in Europe. The subjection of the residence permit process to systematization—on paper at least—accompanied by clearly stated requirements and procedures, ensures that the process is transparent and accessible to applicants from different countries.

It may be provided with rights for permanent residence in the country, multiple entries and exits from Lithuania, and free movement within the territory of the Schengen states without any visa for aliens of non-EU member countries. Originally, a residence permit is issued for one year but can be extended for two or three years.

It has two main types of residence permits provided under Lithuanian laws, namely: temporary and permanent.

A temporary residence permit is known as TRP, and this is usually issued for a period starting from one year up to three consecutive years. While a permanent residence permit is provided for five successive years. It is also very important that a temporary residence permit can be changed for a permanent one only after five years of residence in the Republic of Lithuania on such grounds. A person is allowed to submit an application for a permanent residence permit only after the specified period has expired. This, however, is to be supported by passing an examination on the knowledge of the Lithuanian language and the basics of the country’s constitution—procedures supervised by the Education Development Centre. After ten years of residence in Lithuania on the basis of a residence permit, an alien may also apply for acquisition of citizenship of the Republic of Lithuania.

Immigration programs in Lithuania welcome foreign investors and entrepreneurs willing to establish or expand their businesses in the country by offering them various opportunities. One of the main focuses is getting a residence permit through ownership of a company or the position of a director.

On the basis of company ownership, incorporation of up to four persons in one company for the purpose of residence permit processing is possible. Such a company can have three shareholders and one director; there is no limitation concerning the nationality of the participants. Let’s point out that one person can be both a shareholder and a director, starting the residence permit proceedings. At the beginning, this document is issued for one year with the possibility of extension for two years in the next periods. After five years of residence in the country on the basis of a temporary residence permit, it is possible to file an application for a permanent residence permit, including collecting the required documents and passing the relevant checks.

The company shall have a share capital of at least EUR 28,000 with each shareholder owning at least EUR 14,000 worth of shares. One of the main conditions is the employment of at least one Lithuanian citizen, who should receive a wage that amounts to at least two average salaries in the country—a sum that currently equals EUR 1,780. The company should also operate actively for six months before the residence permit is considered, and prove this by showing relevant financial reports and documents.

After the preparation of documents, which takes about five working days, it should be considered for two months by the migration department. Documents may be submitted through the Lithuanian embassies abroad or directly to the migration department in Lithuania.

Another way to obtain a residence permit in Lithuania is by buying an already operating business—a very effective method for those investors who would like to minimize initial investments and risks of operation. In such cases, investors can purchase a share or fully fledged businesses where processes are already in full swing and where integration and the start of operations in the new market are greatly simplified.

A temporary residence permit in Lithuania is issued for a different period, which depends on the category of applicants. Normally, it is issued for a period of 1 to 2 years, but for persons of Lithuanian origin and aliens retaining the right to Lithuanian citizenship, a residence permit may be issued for up to 5 years.

An application for a temporary residence permit or its extension shall be submitted with the Migration Department of the Republic of Lithuania. In the case of the first-time application, an applicant needs to register his/her electronic application and book the time for the visit in the Lithuanian Migration Information System MIGRIS. It is relevant to note that it is necessary to submit the paper application and provide the required biometric data within 4 months from the date of electronic submission.

Documents to be submitted for the application for the residence permit in the Republic of Lithuania:

• Application for the issue of a temporary residence permit submitted online via MIGRIS system
• A valid travel document (passport)
• Temporary residence permit (when replaced)
• Evidence indicating the ground for issuance of the residence permit
• Documents confirming the sufficient means of subsistence in the Republic of Lithuania and of returning to another country of valid travel document or of transit to another country
• Obligation to declare the place of residence in the Republic of Lithuania
• Certificate of (absence of) conviction (valid for 6 months)
• Health Insurance

Documents proving the legal residence (e.g. visa), if the application is submitted in Lithuania. Apostille or double legalization—except for documents issued by countries which have concluded agreements with the Republic of Lithuania on Legal Assistance in Civil, Labour and Criminal Matters, is required for legalization of documents issued by foreign countries. Translation into Lithuanian is also compulsory.

The processing period of the application is up to 3 months in case of general applications and up to 45 days in case of urgent ones. The application for the renewal of a residence permit has to be made no later than 2 months before the expiry of the current permit, whereas for replacement, no later than 1 month before its expiry, but not earlier than 4 months.

For further details, please access the official Lithuanian Migration Department website.

Types of Lithuanian temporary residence permits

In the context of European integration and internationalisation of business processes, Lithuania offers serious opportunities to foreign investors and professionals interested in widening their presence in the single European market. The ground for legal stay in the country is a temporary residence permit. It is differentiated depending on the purpose of stay and the nature of alien’s activity.

Application process

Application procedure for residence permit: Application procedure commences with the application through MIGRIS and further submission of the required documentation with biometric data. Confirmation of eligibility for residence permit: Lithuanian Migration Department confirms the eligibility and considers every case.

To this end, Lithuania has various possibilities for obtaining a temporary residence permit, pointing to the different needs of foreign citizens. This country is in demand by international business and cultural exchange, which contributes to economic development and strengthens international relations.

Duration of a Lithuanian temporary residence permit

Lithuania is a member of the EU, and it attracts a lot of foreign professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors who can legally stay and work in the territory of Lithuania with the help of the temporary residence permit system. It is very important to understand the residence permit’s duration, extension conditions, and renewal for long-term business strategy planning and stability of foreigners’ personal and professional affairs in Lithuania.

Main terms of the temporary residence permit

A temporary residence permit in Lithuania is issued for different durations depending on the grounds for obtaining it:

For business investors and entrepreneurs: Usually issued for a period of up to one year, renewable upon proof of active business activity and compliance with economic requirements (e.g. minimum share capital and employment of local staff).

For highly qualified specialists: Can be issued for two years, with the key condition being the existence of an employment contract with a Lithuanian company offering a salary significantly higher than the national average.

For students and researchers: The residence permit is issued for the period of study or scientific work, but not more than for one year with the possibility of extension on the basis of proof of continuation of educational or scientific activity.

For family members: the residence permit is usually granted for the period corresponding to the validity of the permit which was issued to/indicated for the main applicant in order for the family to be able to live together in Lithuania.

The procedure for residence permit extension

Renewal of a residence permit requires proof that the foreigner has continued to satisfy the conditions that originally formed the basis of the authorisation. It is recommended that foreigners apply for renewal several months in advance of the expiration date of the residence permit currently issued, in order to avoid a period of illegality in their stay. Important elements are financial stability, availability of housing, and for business investors, the proof of contribution to the country’s economy.

Peculiarities of Legislation and Practice of Application

Lithuanian legislation provides for various opportunities of accelerated obtaining or extension of residence permits, such as for investors, who create a considerable number of jobs or invest large sums in priority sectors of the economy. In this case, the terms of processing can be shortened, which is an stimulus in order to attract foreign capital.

A temporary residence permit in Lithuania is issued for a specific period, which shall be determined by various factors, such as the purpose of stay, economic activity, and personal circumstances of an applicant. At the same time, the flexibility of the Lithuanian migration system and the possibility of providing different types of residence permits contribute to international mobility and promote economic development, thus making Lithuania attractive for international business and professional activities.

How to apply for a residence permit for Lithuania?

Lithuania provides several opportunities for foreigners willing to live and work in Lithuania. Residence permit – LLV is one of the main ways to live and be able to work in Lithuania, as well as travel without any restrictions within the Schengen area. Application should be submitted only in accordance with the approved procedure in advance, not after arrival in Lithuania, taking into consideration the preparation and processing of the documents that usually take some time, considering legal requirements.

Stages of applying for residence permit in Lithuania

Important aspects and tips

Legalisation and apostilisation of documents: Documents issued in other countries shall be legalised or apostilled, except when the international treaties provide otherwise.

Translation of documents: All documents in a foreign language shall be translated into Lithuanian and certified by a notary.

Urgency of the procedure: At the applicant’s request, when the situation requires faster processing, expedited processing may be carried out for an additional fee.

Specialist support: Given the complicated nature of the procedure and possible legal peculiarities, services of qualified migration agents or lawyers should be sought.

A residence permit is a very tedious procedure in Lithuania, requiring attention to every detail and correspondence with migration legislation. Good preparation for every step of the process makes getting a residence permit and further stay in the country much easier. It opens wide opportunities for successful professional, educational, or business activities in Lithuania and provides stability in the new European environment.

Lithuanian temporary residence permit requirements

Lithuania attracts foreign investors and professionals by offering convenient conditions for obtaining a TPL that creates good conditions for their development as well as strengthening the local economy. This residence permit allows foreigners not only to live and work in Lithuania but also gives the freedom of movement within the Schengen area.

Basic requirements for obtaining a temporary residence permit in Lithuania

Procedural aspects of applying for a residence permit

The process of application is triggered through registration in the Lithuanian Migration Information System, MIGRIS, where required forms can be submitted and relevant documents tendered. Upon electronic submission, one has to attend the Service of Migration so as to provide biometric data and original documents.

Timeframes and deadlines for processing applications

Residence permit applications, on the other hand, take a few weeks up to a couple of months for the residence permit applications to get processed, depending on the case’s complexity and workload of migration services.

Acquiring temporary residence in Lithuania opens broad opportunities to foreigners who want to work, study, or develop businesses in a country with high economic stability and broad access to the European market. Compliance with all the requirements and proper preparation for the process significantly increases the chances of successful obtention of a residence permit. This will also contribute not only to strengthening the applicant’s personal and professional prospects but also to his/her harmonious integration into Lithuanian society.

How to get permanent residence in Lithuania?

Obtaining a permanent residence permit in Lithuania is a big accomplishment for foreigners who want to deepen their integration into the country’s economy and society. The permanent residence permit not only guarantees stability of stay, but opens more business, employment, and personal opportunities, thus granting a right to virtually unlimited residence in Lithuania and Schengen area travel.

Main conditions for a residence permit in the Republic of Lithuania

Applicants must have been legally residing in Lithuania for at least five years on the basis of a temporary residence permit. This period must be continuous, which implies no prolonged absences from the country.

Stable source of income. Applicants must be able to prove they have a stable and sufficient income in support of themselves and their dependents in Lithuania, including from employment, business, or any other legitimate sources thereof.

Place of residence. The applicant should have a permanent place of residence in Lithuania; this could be in the form of a property or a long-term lease.

Knowledge of the state language. The candidate must have a sufficient level of the Lithuanian language, which would enable him to communicate in everyday life and understand the cultural features of the society. Such requirement is confirmed by passing relevant examination.

Integration into society. Candidates must demonstrate their integration into Lithuanian society through participation in social life, labour or cultural ties, as well as a general understanding of Lithuanian laws and the basics of the state system.

The process of applying for permanent residence

Documentary gathering. Before filing the application, it will be necessary to collect a complete set of documents, including proof of financial stability, documentation confirming residence in Lithuania, language test results, and other supporting documents.

Application lodging. Application for a residence permit shall be submitted to the Lithuanian Migration Service in person or through authorized representatives. All documents have to be submitted in Lithuanian or with translation into Lithuanian.

Second instance decision-making. So, after that, a several-month processing is performed. During this time, it will be possible to request additional information or hold interviews with the aim of reducing uncertainty from certain aspects of the request that so need it.

Obtaining a permanent residence permit opens new perspectives for foreigners who want to deepen their presence in Lithuania. Careful preparation is needed, considering the Lithuanian migration policy; however, successful receipt of the permanent residence permit considerably simplifies the process of further integration into the economic and social structure of Lithuania.

Where to Apply for Permanent Residence in Lithuania?

Obtaining permanent residence in Lithuania is a big step and part of the procedure for a foreign national willing to be recognized as someone who has the right to permanently stay in this country. Permanent residence allows one not only to reside in this country but also gives an opportunity to use the labour market, educational and social programmes.

Contacting and Applying for an LOI

1. Competent authorities. Applications for permanent residence permits are received and considered by the Lithuanian Migration Service (Migracijos departamentas). This state institution is competent in the sphere of migration policy, including issuing different types of residence permits, in general.
2. Places of submission. The application for a residence permit may be submitted at territorial units of the Migration Service, situated in large Lithuanian cities such as Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipeda and others. Applications are also accepted at Lithuanian diplomatic missions abroad, which is relevant to the persons temporarily staying outside Lithuania.
3. E-filing. Part of the process can be done online through the official Lithuanian e-service portal (E-Government Portal). Applicants can register on the website, fill in the necessary forms and upload scans of the documents, which simplifies the application process and reduces the need for personal visits to Migration Service offices.

Required documents and procedures

• Application: The official application form should be filled in and is available on the Migration Service website.
• Documents: The list of required documents includes a passport, photographs, documents of proof of legal residence in Lithuania for the last five years, financial proof, proof of residence, certificates of criminal record, and proof of integration such as a certificate of knowledge of the Lithuanian language.
• Fees and Charges: There is a government fee for processing of an application for LOI. The fee will vary depending upon the urgency of the processing and other factors.

Timeframe for Review

The application for a residence permit should be processed within the time from several months up to six months, taking into account the completeness of the submitted documents and the workload of the Migration Service. Applicants are advised to carefully prepare all the necessary documents and check the state of their case either on an online portal or by personal visits to the office.

The process of getting a permanent residence permit in Lithuania requires a detailed approach and strict adherence to the norms of migration legislation. Being prepared for the beginning, an applicant should be aware of how one can substantially simplify and speed up this process of getting a permanent residence permit, opening new opportunities for development and growth in Lithuania.

Documents needed for the application of permanent residence permit of Lithuania

Obtaining permanent residence status in Lithuania is a huge step for foreign investors and professionals who would like to strengthen their long-term ties with the Lithuanian market and society. Applications should be well-prepared and filed with a full package of documents that confirm compliance of an applicant with all requirements provided by migration legislation of Lithuania. Below is listed documentation that shall be submitted during a successful application for permanent residence.

Submission process

The application, with a full package of documentation, is submitted personally at the Migration Service or via the Lithuanian diplomatic missions abroad. It should be emphasized that all the documents are to be up to date and in due form according to the requirements of the Migration Service.

Preparation for the submission of documents for permanent residence in Lithuania is very labor-intensive and requires special attention to detail. Following the instructions carefully and submitting a full and accurate set of documents will greatly increase the chances of successfully obtaining a residence permit and smooth progress toward stable and productive residence in Lithuania.

Lithuania Residence Permit Processing Time

A residence permit is an important document meant for foreign investors, professionals, and entrepreneurs who are planning to stay for longer periods in Lithuania and operate businesses. The time required for processing may vary based on the type of residence permit and varying personal circumstances of one’s case:

The processing time for residence permit applications in Lithuania varies and can depend on many reasons. Therefore, the key to avoiding delays in the residence permit application process and to make it smoother and faster is to understand the process and prepare for it carefully.

Lithuania residence permit by investment

Having the status of a dynamically developing economy and being a part of the European Union, Lithuania has all the unique opportunities for foreign investors to get residence permit through investment. The program opens a promising European market, offering a stable legal environment and extensive business opportunities.

1. Basic requirements for obtaining residence permit through investment

In general, in order to have the right to obtain a residence permit in Lithuania, foreign investors must fulfill certain conditions that are at least the following:

• Minimum investment required: The investment required shall be sufficiently large in size in the economy of Lithuania. Normally, the minimum is EUR 28,000 in the authorized capital of the company. This minimum may be increased depending on the number of shareholders and the business scale.
• Creation of job positions: It is obliged for the company in which investments were made to be able to provide job positions for nationals of the Republic of Lithuania. It is required, as a rule, to have at least one employee with a salary no lower than two average salaries in the country.
• Active entrepreneurial activity: The investor must ensure that the company is actively operating, as evidenced by financial statements, contracts and other documents demonstrating the company’s business activity.

2. Residence permit obtaining procedure through investments

The procedure of obtaining residence permit through investment involves the following key steps:

• Company registration: The first thing to be done is to register a legal entity in Lithuania. The company should be registered under the law and in possession of all the necessary licences to operate.
• To Invest: Legislation demands a specific amount of deposit as capital when a company is being incorporated. The invested funds can be used for company business development, to buy equipment, or for any other need of the company.
• Application for Residence Permit: After the registration of the company and making an investment in a company, one may apply for a residence permit. An application shall be submitted to the Lithuanian Migration Service and supported by all documents.
• Application consideration: The review of the application takes from one to four months. It is important that all documents be presented in full and correspond to all the requirements of the migration service.

3. Benefits of residence permit through investments

Obtaining a residence permit in Lithuania through investments provides the investor and his family with a number of significant advantages:

• Free movement: A residence permit allows you to move freely within the Schengen area without the need for visas.
• Access to the European market: The investor gains access to the single European market, opening up a wide range of business and trading opportunities.
• Permanent residence: Having continuously resided in Lithuania for five years on the basis of a temporary residence permit, the investor has the right to apply for a permanent residence permit.
• Tax advantages: Competitive tax rates and numerous business stimuli mean that Lithuania can boast of one of the most favorable investment climates.

4. Legalization and translation of the documents

All the documents that will be submitted during the process of a residence permit should first be translated into the Lithuanian language and then notarized. Where necessary, legalization of documents or certification with an apostille is also required.

Obtaining a residence permit in Lithuania through investment is a strategically important step for international investors desirous of expanding their presence in Europe and benefiting from all the advantages this country has to offer. Careful preparation and fulfillment of all the requirements increase the chances of successfully obtaining a residence permit and open new prospects for business and life in Lithuania.

Lithuanian residency by investment requirements

As the dynamically developing economy member of the European Union, Lithuania offers very attractive conditions for obtaining residence through investment. This is one of the most effective ways of legalization in the country and offers a wide scope of advantages, from access to the large European market and free movement within the Schengen area to the possibility of residence on its territory for unlimited periods of time, not only to the investors themselves but also to their families. In the present article, we will focus on the key conditions that ought to be provided for residency in Lithuania by investment and by which an international investor shall consider. That is:

Obtaining residence in Lithuania through investment is a great opportunity that will allow international investors not only to legalize their stay in the country but also to open wide access to the European market. Careful compliance with all programme requirements and proper preparation of the application will ensure successful obtainment of residency and create a solid basis for long-term business development in Lithuania.

How long after permanent residency can I apply for Lithuania citizenship?

When can I apply for Lithuanian citizenship after permanent residency? Obtaining a PRP is an important step for many foreign nationals that came to Lithuania and settled here toward full integration into the society and economy of the country. Getting Lithuanian citizenship could be the next step after obtaining a permanent residence permit, opening completely new rights and opportunities, among which comes the right to vote and the possibility of easy access to European Union countries without restrictions.

Basic conditions for applying for Lithuanian citizenship

Before applying for Lithuanian citizenship, a foreign resident must meet some criteria that are very important:

Candidates must have been legally residing in Lithuania for the last ten years, of which permanent residence (on the basis of a residence permit) must be at least five years. This period must be uninterrupted and confirmed by relevant documents.

Knowledge of the Lithuanian language. The knowledge of the Lithuanian language should be sufficient to participate in the everyday life and understand the culture of the country. This fact is confirmed by passing an appropriate examination.

Knowledge of the Lithuanian Constitution. He should have knowledge about the underlying laws and constitutional structure of Lithuania, which also comes under the process of examination.

No criminal record. When applying for citizenship, it is necessary to provide documents confirming the absence of criminal record both in Lithuania and abroad.

The process of applying for citizenship

Once all the above conditions have been fulfilled, candidates can apply for citizenship. The process involves submitting a detailed package of documents, which usually consists of:

• Applications for admission to Lithuanian citizenship;
• Documents confirming legal residence in Lithuania for the required period;
• Results of the Lithuanian language and knowledge of the Constitution examinations;
• No criminal record;
• Documents proving renunciation of current citizenship, if required by law.

Application processing timeframe

The citizenship application process may take from several months to a year, depending on the completeness of the submitted documents and the current workload of the migration service. It is important to note that all documents and applications must be submitted in accordance with the requirements of the Lithuanian Migration Service.

Obtaining Lithuanian citizenship after long-term residence in the country on the basis of a residence permit is a significant achievement that opens new prospects for foreign residents. Careful preparation for the process, full understanding of the requirements and timely submission of all necessary documents will help to ensure successful acquisition of citizenship.

How can Regulated United Europe help with Lithuania residence permit?

Because of the open economy and favorable business conditions, in recent years Lithuania becomes more and more attractive to international entrepreneurs. A residence permit obtained through the opening or purchase of a business is among the most effective options for foreigners to be able to settle in Lithuania. Regulated United Europe will provide full-range services to support business immigration and make this process as smooth and reliable as possible.

Assistance in Establishment of a New Company

Regulated United Europe offers full service for establishing new companies in Lithuania, which is the first step to obtain residence. Key aspects include:

• Consulting on selection of the legal form of the company most appropriate for the client’s goals and plans.
• Preparation and submission of all required documents for company registration under the laws of Lithuania.
• Registered office and nominee director services, if needed.
• Bank account opening and financial transaction establishment assistance.

Ready-made Business Purchase Support

For those customers who would like to enter into an already running business, Regulated United Europe offers selection, valuation, and ready-made business purchase services in Lithuania:

• Market analysis for determination of the most promising business options.
• Carrying out the legal due diligence of the business to minimize risks and confirm the legal cleanness of the transaction. This includes assistance in negotiations and conclusion of transactions by executing all provided documents.

Business immigration is the obtaining of a residence permit not only by successfully setting up or acquiring a business but also by successfully operating it. Regulated United Europe supports on all levels: business planning consultation and compliance of activity with the requirements of Lithuanian legislation; assistance in documentation of economic activity and its importance for the economy of Lithuania as a key criterion for obtaining a residence permit.

Application and all the supporting documents are submitted via Lithuanian migration authorities. Support at the stage of residence permit renewal, including proof of continuous economic activity and compliance of business in accordance with the requirements of the Republic of Lithuania.

Regulated United Europe is your trusted associate for business immigration to Lithuania. With deep knowledge of the local legislation and market, in addition to extensive experience in international client servicing, our company ensures that your investment and immigration processes are carried out with high professionalism and security. Cooperation with us opens the door to a successful and stable future in Lithuania.