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 Comprehensive Guide to Lithuania Work Visa: Everything You Need to Know

Lithuania, a vibrant Baltic state and member of the European Union, offers exciting opportunities for foreign professionals. This guide provides in-depth information on obtaining a work visa for Lithuania, covering eligibility criteria, salary requirements, application processes, and important considerations for living and working in the country.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Lithuania work visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Valid Job Offer:

  • Secure an employment contract from a registered Lithuanian company.
  • The position should not be fillable by a Lithuanian or EU citizen.

2. Qualifications:

  • Possess the necessary education, skills, and/or work experience for the position.
  • Some professions may require recognition of foreign qualifications by Lithuanian authorities.

3. Health Insurance:

  • Obtain comprehensive health insurance valid in Lithuania.
  • Coverage must meet Schengen visa requirements.

4. Clean Criminal Record:

  • Provide a police clearance certificate from your country of residence.
  • Certificates should not be older than 6 months.

5. Valid Passport:

  • Hold a passport valid for at least one year beyond the intended stay.
  • Ensure at least two blank pages for visa stamps.

6. Sufficient Funds:

  • Demonstrate the ability to support yourself during your stay.
  • Typically, this means having at least €1,000 per month of stay.


Salary Requirements

Lithuania sets minimum salary thresholds for foreign workers to ensure fair compensation and protect the local job market:


1. Highly Qualified Professionals:

  • Minimum 1.5 times the average gross monthly salary in Lithuania.
  • As of 2024, this is approximately €3,000 per month.
  • Applies to positions requiring higher education or 5+ years of professional experience.

2. Other Workers:

  • At least the average gross monthly salary in Lithuania.
  • As of 2024, this is approximately €2,000 per month.
  • Applies to all other positions not classified as highly qualified.

3. EU Blue Card Holders:

  • Minimum 1.5 times the average annual gross salary (for regulated professions).
  • Minimum 1.2 times the average annual gross salary (for other professions).

Note: These figures are adjusted annually based on economic factors. Always check the latest information from the Lithuanian Department of Migration.


Types of Work Visas

Lithuania offers several types of work-related visas and permits:

1. National D Visa:

  • For stays up to 1 year.
  • Allows multiple entries.
  • Can be used while waiting for a residence permit decision.

2. Temporary Residence Permit:

  • For stays exceeding 1 year.
  • Valid for up to 3 years, renewable.
  • Allows free movement within the Schengen Area.

3. EU Blue Card:

  • For highly skilled non-EU nationals.
  • Valid for up to 3 years, renewable.
  • Offers additional benefits like easier family reunification.

4. Intra-Corporate Transfer (ICT) Permit:

  • For managers, specialists, or trainee employees transferred within the same company.
  • Valid for up to 3 years for managers and specialists, 1 year for trainees.


How to Apply

The application process for a Lithuania work visa involves several steps:


1. Job Offer:

  • Secure a job offer from a Lithuanian employer.
  • Ensure the employer is registered with the Lithuanian Labor Exchange.
  • The employer must prove that the position cannot be filled by a Lithuanian or EU citizen.

2. Work Permit:

  • Your employer must apply for a work permit on your behalf at the Lithuanian Labor Exchange.
  • Required documents include your CV, copies of qualifications, and job description.
  • Processing time: Usually 7-14 working days.
  • Some professions and highly qualified specialists may be exempt from this requirement.

3. Document Preparation:

  • Valid passport (with at least two blank pages)
  • Completed visa application form
  • Recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm, not older than 6 months)
  • Job contract or offer letter
  • Work permit approval
  • Proof of qualifications (diplomas, certificates, translated and notarized)
  • Health insurance certificate (covering at least €30,000)
  • Police clearance certificate (apostilled or legalized)
  • Proof of accommodation in Lithuania
  • Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, sponsor letter, etc.)

4. Visa Application:

  • Apply for a national D visa at the nearest Lithuanian embassy or consulate.
  • Pay the visa fee (approximately €120, but may vary).
  • Submit biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
  • Attend an interview if required.
  • Processing time: Usually 15-30 calendar days.

5. After Arrival:

  • Enter Lithuania within the visa validity period.
  • Register your place of residence within 7 days at the local eldership.
  • Apply for a residence permit at the Migration Department within 3 months.
  • Obtain a Lithuanian ID card, which serves as your residence permit.


Additional Information

1. Language Requirements:

  • While not mandatory for the visa, basic Lithuanian language skills may be required for some positions.
  • The state offers free Lithuanian language courses for foreigners.

2. Tax Obligations:

  • Personal income tax rate: 20% on income up to 90 average wages, 32% on income exceeding this amount.
  • Social security contributions: Approximately 19.5% (employee's share).
  • Always consult with a tax professional for the most up-to-date information.

3. Healthcare:

  • Public healthcare is available once you start paying social security contributions.
  • Many expats opt for additional private health insurance.

4. Recognition of Qualifications:

  • Some professions (e.g., doctors, teachers) require recognition of foreign qualifications.
  • Contact the Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education (SKVC) for information.

5. Family Reunification:

  • Possibility to bring family members (spouse, minor children) under certain conditions.
  • Family members may be eligible for a residence permit.

6. Permanent Residence:

  • Possible after living in Lithuania for 5 years continuously.
  • Requires passing a Lithuanian language exam and basic history/constitution test.

7. Working Hours and Leave:

  • Standard working week: 40 hours
  • Minimum annual leave: 20 working days
  • 13 public holidays per year

8. Cost of Living:

  • Varies significantly between cities, with Vilnius being the most expensive.
  • Generally lower than Western European countries.

9. Cultural Integration:

  • Lithuania offers a rich cultural experience with a mix of modernity and tradition.
  • Joining expat groups or local community organizations can help with integration.

10. Useful Resources:

  • Migration Department: www.migracija.lt
  • Lithuanian Labor Exchange: www.ldb.lt
  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs: www.urm.lt

Remember that immigration laws and procedures can change. Always verify the latest information with official sources or consult with a legal professional specializing in Lithuanian immigration law.


Important Link : https://www.migracija.lt/


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