In recent years, more and more job seekers have come to Lithuania. For EU citizens, the process of employment in Lithuania is fairly simple. Those arriving from non-EU countries must go through certain procedures, the most important ones being to find an employer and get a work permit or a decision on compliance with labor market needs. After that, a foreigner can apply for a work visa or a residence permit.
Types of Work Permits for Non-EU Nationals
- Temporary Residence Permit for Work
- Eligibility:
- Non-EU nationals with a job offer in Lithuania.
- The job must be in line with Lithuanian labor market needs.
- Requirements:
- A valid job offer or employment contract from a Lithuanian employer.
- Proof of qualifications and professional experience.
- Health insurance covering the duration of stay.
- Validity:
- Typically valid for up to 1 year, renewable.
- Eligibility:
- EU Blue Card
- Eligibility:
- Highly skilled non-EU nationals with a job offer in Lithuania.
- Requirements:
- A higher education qualification or at least 5 years of relevant work experience.
- A job offer with a salary above a specified threshold.
- Validity:
- Initial permit valid for up to 2 years, renewable.
- Eligibility:
- Intra-Corporate Transferee Permit
- Eligibility:
- Employees of multinational companies being transferred to a Lithuanian branch.
- Requirements:
- Employment with the company for at least 6 months.
- A valid transfer or assignment letter.
- Validity:
- Typically valid for up to 3 years, renewable.
- Eligibility:
- Seasonal Work Permit
- Eligibility:
- Non-EU nationals engaged in seasonal work.
- Requirements:
- Proof of seasonal employment (e.g., agriculture, tourism).
- Validity:
- Valid for up to 6 months within a 12-month period.
- Eligibility:
Application Process
- Job Offer:
- Secure a formal job offer from a Lithuanian employer. The employer must be authorized to hire non-EU nationals.
- Work Permit Application:
- Where to Apply: Submit applications to the Lithuanian Migration Department, or at the nearest Lithuanian embassy or consulate.
- Documents Needed:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months beyond the intended stay).
- Completed application form.
- Job offer or employment contract.
- Proof of qualifications and experience.
- Health insurance.
- Proof of accommodation in Lithuania.
- Processing Time: Usually 1-3 months.
- Residence Permit:
- Once the work permit is approved, apply for a residence permit. This is typically done in parallel with the work permit application.
Costs
- Application Fees: Varies depending on the type of permit and the processing speed.
- Additional Costs: May include document translation, legal fees, and health insurance.
Family Reunification
- Eligibility: Spouses and dependent children can apply for residence permits.
- Documents Needed:
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates).
- Evidence of financial support.
Renewal and Extension
- Renewal: Work permits can be renewed before they expire. Submit a renewal application with updated documentation.
- Extension: Extensions follow similar requirements as the initial application.
Key Considerations
- Language: Knowledge of Lithuanian is not required but can be helpful.
- Taxes: Non-EU workers are subject to Lithuanian tax laws.
- Legal Compliance: Ensure compliance with all visa and work regulations to avoid penalties.
Useful Resources
- Lithuanian Migration Department: migration.lt
- Lithuanian Embassy/Consulate: Contact for specific advice and application procedures.