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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

Application Process

  1. Job Offer:
    • Secure a formal job offer from a Lithuanian employer. The employer must be authorized to hire non-EU nationals.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.