Navigating Lithuania's Visa and Immigration Framework: An HR Perspective

Lithuania's immigration system, governed by the Law on the Legal Status of Aliens, has undergone significant procedural changes. Since July 1, 2023, applications for National (D-type) visas are no longer processed directly by Lithuanian consulates abroad. Instead, applicants must submit through external service providers authorized by the Migration Department under the Ministry of the Interior.

As a Schengen Area member, Lithuania allows visa-free stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period for Schengen visa holders. For longer stays exceeding 90 days, securing a National Visa (D-type) or Temporary Residence Permit becomes mandatory.

Understanding Lithuanian Visa Categories

Lithuanian immigration law delineates several visa types tailored to different purposes of travel:

Airport Transit Visa (A-type): For international transit through Schengen airport zones.
Transit Visa (B-type): Permits stays of up to five days per entry in Lithuania.
Short-stay Visa (C-type): Allows stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen area.
Long-stay National Visa (D-type): Issued for long-term residence, valid for up to 12 months, with decisions made by the Migration Department.

Lithuanian Residence Permits: Temporary and Permanent Options

Residence permits grant foreigners the right to live, choose residence, and travel in and out of Lithuania during the permit's validity. There are two main categories: Temporary and Permanent Residence Permits. Typically, permanent residence eligibility arises after five years of continuous legal residence.

Initial applications for residence permits must be submitted to Lithuanian diplomatic missions abroad. The Ministry of the Interior specifies cases where applications can be made while already in Lithuania.

Processing Timelines for Residence Permits

Issuance of a new residence permit: Up to 6 months from application receipt.
Modification of an existing permit: Up to 2 months from request submission.

Validity and Extensions of Residence Permits

A decision to issue or change a Temporary Residence Permit is valid for 3 months, while for a Permanent Residence Permit, it's 6 months. Applicants must apply for the permit itself within this period. Extensions may be granted for compelling reasons like illness, but cannot exceed 3 months.

Securing a Lithuanian Long-Stay National Visa (D-type) for Employment

EU/EEA citizens enjoy freedom of movement and do not require a work permit or visa for employment in Lithuania. Non-EU nationals, however, typically need both a work permit and a D-type visa.

D-type visas authorize stays longer than 3 months and can be single or multiple-entry.
Multiple-entry visas are suitable for those establishing long-term residence or frequently traveling to Lithuania for work while maintaining a primary residence abroad.

The Work Permit Application Process

Employers in Lithuania must secure a work permit on behalf of their non-EU employees before signing an employment contract. The Lithuanian Labor Exchange issues these permits, which are valid for up to two years and specify the job role and employer. Holders of permanent residence permits are exempt from this requirement.

Special categories exist: Seasonal work permits are valid for up to 6 months, while permits for interns or trainees can be issued for 2 years, with possible extensions under specific conditions.

Document Checklist for D-type Visa Application

Employees need to prepare:

Duly completed National Visa application form.
Valid passport with sufficient blank pages.
Recent color photograph.
Employer's mediation letter.
Valid work permit.
Proof of sufficient financial means.
Comprehensive health insurance certificate.

Step-by-Step Application Procedure

Employee accepts a formal job offer from a Lithuanian employer.
Employee provides necessary documents to the employer.
Employer submits the work permit application to the Lithuanian Labor Exchange.
Upon work permit issuance, the employee applies for the D-type visa at a Lithuanian consulate or embassy in their home country.
After visa approval, the employee can enter Lithuania and commence employment.

Costs and Processing Times

The standard visa fee is €120. Service fees at application centers vary but often include charges for optional services like courier, photocopying, or form-filling assistance. Processing is generally efficient:

Work Permit: Approximately 7 working days.
National D-type Visa: Around 15 working days.

For multinational corporations like SailGlobal, leveraging expert immigration support can streamline this process, ensuring compliance and minimizing delays for international assignments. Always verify the latest requirements directly with official Lithuanian immigration authorities before initiating any application.

Lithuania Work Visa & Residence Permit Guide 2024 | HR Expert Advice