Lithuania is gradually becoming one of the most appealing destinations in the European Union for international professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, and service providers. The Migration Department of Lithuania has recently revised its official policy to simplify and clarify the visa pathways for non-EU citizens who wish to enter Lithuania for work, business, or short-term professional visits under a variety of legal categories.
Lithuania has announced the publication of more structured pathways, clear eligibility criteria, and improved access to family reunification under its Law on the Legal Status of Foreigners, regardless of whether you are a business visitor, contractual service supplier, independent professional, or investor. The following information is essential:
Who Does This Update Affect?
- Non-EU citizens who are seeking national long-term visas (lasting more than 90 days) or provisional residence permits.
- Individuals who are accessing Lithuania under the auspices of EU Trade Agreements, international partnerships, or company sponsorship.
- Entrepreneurs or administrators of foreign companies with investment or service operations in Lithuania.
- Short-term business visitors and independent professionals (e.g., athletes, journalists, and artists).
Benefits of Lithuania Work and Business Visas:
Benefits of Lithuania Work Visa
- The legal right to work: Enables you to legally reside and operate in Lithuania for a specific employer.
- Route to Residency: Eligible for transient and subsequently permanent residence following a continuous legal stay.
- EU Job Market Access: You will have a more straightforward time accessing employment opportunities throughout the EU once you become a resident.
- There is a significant demand for skilled laborers: Opportunities exist in the fields of logistics, healthcare, IT, construction, and manufacturing.
- Reunification of Families: Possibility of bringing close family members after completing residency requirements.
- Living in a Safe and Affordable Environment: Good quality of life, with a lower cost of living than Western Europe.
- Access to Social Benefits; Healthcare, education, and social services are accessible upon obtaining residency.
- European Work Experience: Acquire valuable international experience to advance your career.
Benefits of Lithuania Business Visa
- Establishing a Business in the European Union: Legal authorization to establish or invest in a Lithuanian enterprise that has access to the EU market.
- Startup Visa with Priority Processing; The Lithuanian Startup Visa is designed to simplify the process for innovators and entrepreneurs in the technology sector.
- Foreign ownership is permissible in its entirety: The majority of sectors allow foreign nationals to completely own a business.
- Tax Incentives: Corporate tax benefits and exemptions in Free Economic Zones (FEZ).
- EU Trade and Funding Accessibility:
- Opportunity to apply for EU development grants and expand within Europe.
- Permanent Residency Alternative: After five years of lawful business operations, applicants are eligible to submit applications for permanent residency.
- Visa for Family Members: Family members may be sponsored to accompany you to Lithuania.
- Schengen Zone entry point: With a legitimate Lithuanian residence permit, individuals are permitted to travel freely to over 25 Schengen countries.
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Lithuania Visa & Entry Pathways Now Covered:
1# Business Visitors for Establishment Purposes (BVEPs)
- No work permit is necessary.
- The Schengen regulations permit a maximum of 90 days of stay within a 180-day period.
- Can submit an application for a temporary residence permit or national visa.
- Passport, invitation letter, insurance (€30,000), and confirmation of subsistence are required.
2# Short-Term Business Visitors (STBV)
- Certain nationalities are permitted to enter without a visa.
- Short-term visits necessitate no work permit.
- The following documents are necessary: a mediation letter, financial proof, a valid passport, and insurance.
- Processing time: 3 months (standard), 45 days (urgent).
3# Contractual Service Suppliers (CSSs)
- Proof of 6-month business activity and an equity value of €28,000 is required.
- The minimum salary requirements are applicable.
- Requires a business plan, employment contracts, and evidence of activity. Family members are eligible to apply with you.
4# Independent Professionals (IPs)
- Comprises accredited journalists, sportsmen, and performers
- Proof of activity and an adequate amount of funds are required.
- Under this category, family reunions are prohibited.
- A residence permit is typically effective for a period of two years.
5# Investors
- Must possess a minimum of 1/3 of the equity in a Lithuanian company with a value of €28,000.
- The company must have been in operation for a minimum of six months and employed three full-time employees.
- Investors who invest €260,000 or €500,000 are eligible for extended permits and family reunification.
New Visa Application Process for Lithuania Commencing 2025:
Where to Apply:
- If you are located abroad, you must submit your application through the external service provider that the Lithuanian Migration Department has selected.
- If you are legally present in Lithuania, submit your application to the Migration Department.
Documents Required (general):
- A passport that is valid
- MIGRIS-registered mediation/facilitation letter
- Evidence of adequate financial resources and health insurance (with a coverage of €30,000)
- Proof of domicile, company registration, and business activity (for CSSs and investors)
- Certificate of criminal record (required for residence permits).
Lithuania Visa Application Fees and Processing Times:
| Application Type | Standard Fee | Urgent Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Visa | €140 | N/A | Up to 3 months |
| Residence Permit | €160 | €320 | 3 months / 45 days (urgent) |
| Renewal (Investors) | €160 | €320 | 2 months / 1 month (urgent) |
Family Reunification Rules (Expanded) for Lithuania in 2025:
The government has expanded its family reunification provisions under the 2025 migration update, which is a substantial advantage for international laborers who are considering Lithuania. At present, foreign nationals who are entering Lithuania as Business Visitors for Establishment Purposes (BVEPs), Contractual Service Suppliers (CSSs), or Investors are permitted to bring their immediate family members, including spouses, registered partners, dependent children, and even dependent parents, with them.
Investors who contribute a minimum of €260,000 or €500,000 to Lithuanian enterprises and employ local citizens or permanent residents are granted immediate family reunification eligibility, which expedites the process for their loved ones to join them immediately. Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that independent professionals (including freelancers, artists, and journalists) are still not eligible for this benefit and are not permitted to bring dependents under their visa category.
This modification establishes Lithuania as a more appealing and family-friendly destination for international talent who are in search of long-term settlement with their loved ones, in addition to professional opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How can I get a Lithuanian work visa from Pakistan?
Your visa application cannot be submitted online. The sole method of applying for a visa is to visit the office of a designated external service provider or the Lithuanian Embassy or Consulate-General who is responsible. information available on the homepage of the Lithuanian Embassy or Consulate-General in question.
How much bank balance is required for a Lithuanian visa?
Health insurance that is applicable in all Schengen countries until the expiration date of the requested visa, with a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros. A bank statement verifying that you have an adequate quantity of money to support yourself in Lithuania (304 Eur per month = 3648 Eur per year + 555 Eur for travel expenses); One color photograph (35×45 mm).
Is ielts needed for Lithuania?
Not necessarily, Numerous Lithuanian universities provide alternatives to IELTS for the purpose of showing English proficiency. Proof of prior English language instruction is acceptable by certain institutions.
