Understanding the National Visa (D) and Lithuania Residence Permit Process for Foreign Workers

Updated: May 16

Introduction 

If you want to stay in Lithuania for less that 90 days in a 180 day period, you will need a Schengen visa, unless you are subject to visa free regime. However, if are thinking of moving to Lithuania and want to stay here for a longer than 90 days in a 180 day period or to work here, you will need either a national visa or temporary residence permit. Navigating the immigration landscape as a third-country national seeking work opportunities in Lithuania can be complex. Understanding the correct procedures and requirements for obtaining the residence permit and national visa is crucial. This article aims to guide you through the conditions to obtain a national visa or residence permit, ensuring that your journey to working in Lithuania is smooth and successful.

Complex Immigration Requirements

Many third-country nationals face challenges due to the intricate and often daunting process of applying for the right to work in Lithuania. The law on the position of foreign nationals involves various requirements that must be met, including national visa and residence permits based on the purpose of stay, and the procedures can vary significantly, causing confusion and potential delays.

Barriers to Employment and Integration

Without a clear understanding and the successful navigation of these processes, potential workers may face significant barriers to entry into the Lithuanian job market. Delays or rejections in visa and permit applications not only impact individual career plans but also affect Lithuanian employers in sectors that rely heavily on skilled international workers.

Understanding the Path to Work Authorization

To mitigate these issues, it’s essential to grasp the two primary pathways to work authorization in Lithuania: obtaining a national visa (D) for temporary stay or a residence permit for longer stays.

National Visa (D) 

A National Visa (D) is suitable for individuals intending to stay in Lithuania for a period not exceeding one year. National visa can be issued for different goals, such as work, science, family or lawful activities. It is a popular choice for those who plan to undertake seasonal employment, work secondment or engage in business activities.

Requirements:

• Work Permit: a seasonal work permit or an extended work permit if total work period exceeds 90 days issued by the Employment Service

• Mediation Letter: Your employer shall submit a mediation letter electronically through Lithuanian Migration Information System (MIGRIS). You will need its reference number to include in your visa application.

• Financial Means: Evidence of sufficient funds to support oneself during the stay in Lithuania.

• Health Insurance: Valid health insurance policy of at least EUR 30,000 covering the duration of the stay in Lithuania and the Schengen area, and costs of returning to home country due to health reasons

Application Process:

• Fill out the application electronically through MIGRIS, book appointment time, and include digital copies of application attachments:

  • Valid ID (passport);

  • Document proving financial means of at least one minimal salary per month of stay in Lithuania;

  • Health insurance policy

• Pay the visa fee of EUR 140 (exceptions apply)

• attend the appointment at the booked time, submit biometric data and provide the originals of the attached application documents.

• If you are abroad, you can attend the appointment at one of the visa centres, or Migration Department, if you are in Lithuania.

The term for a decision to issue a national visa is 15 calendar days from the date of application, however, the period may be extended by up to 45 calendar days.

Residence Permit 

For those planning to work in Lithuania for more than a year, a residence permit is the appropriate choice. Similarly to national (D) visa, the grounds for residency permits can be family, work, science, lawful activity or other purposes. This permit comes in two forms: temporary and permanent.

The documents and conditions to obtain a temporary Lithuania residence permit for work depend if the applicant is a skilled employee, whether the applicant's profession is on the shortage occupation list of the Employment Service, or not, whether applicant has studied in Lithuania before and is seeking employment, where he or she is a citizen of Ukraine, and other factors.

Application process to obtain a residency permit is somewhat similar to the application process for national (D) visa, including electronic application submission via MIGRIS, described above. However, submitted documents depend on the grounds that the residency permit is sought upon.

Temporary Residence Permit

Temporary residence permit is issued or renewed for the duration of the work up to a maximum of two years.

Requirements (Each category has specific additional requirements and conditions depending on individual circumstances and the purpose of the application):

• Valid travel document;

• Employer mediation letter and reference number;

• The Employment service decision on labour market needs (if required under certain conditions);

• Proof of sufficient financial means of at least 1 minimum wage per month if your salary will be less than 1 minimum wage;

• Undertaking to register accommodation of at least 7 sqm in a residential premises in Lithuania (exceptions apply for those who obtain accommodation from their employers, such as hauliers);

• Certificate of criminal check;

• Fee of EUR 160 or EUR 320 (expedient applications);

• Attending the appointment at a pre-booked time in either a unit of Migration Department, if you are lawfully in Lithuania, or a foreign service provider, if you are abroad.

Time to issue a temporary residence permit will depend on the grounds, on which an applicant is seeking a permit, and whether standard or urgent procedure applies.

Permanent Residence Permit

• Eligibility: After five years of continuous legal residence in Lithuania.

• Benefits: No need to renew and broader rights similar to those of Lithuanian citizens.

Action Steps to Take For Potential Applicants:

• Research: Thoroughly understand the specific requirements and processes for your intended type of visa or residence permit.

• Prepare: Gather all necessary documentation prior to application.

• Consult: Consider consulting with legal experts specializing in Lithuanian immigration law, such as Zabulis Legal, to ensure a smooth application process.

Employers are advised to assist potential employees, facilitate the process for your prospective employees by providing necessary job offers and documents required from their side, and openly communicate with your employees about the status and requirements of their applications.

Conclusion 

While the process might seem daunting, understanding and following the proper procedures for obtaining a national (D) visa or residence permit can lead to successful employment opportunities in Lithuania for third-country nationals. By preparing adequately and seeking expert advice, you can navigate this path with greater ease and confidence. This guide is a limited overview of national (D) visa and residency permit requirements. For further assistance, you can visit the website of Migration Department at www.migracija.lt or feel free to contact Zabulis Legal for specialized guidance tailored to your unique circumstances.