Lithuanian Residence Permit
Moving to Lithuania starts with understanding which residence route fits your plans. Whether you intend to work, study or join family, your application needs a recognised legal basis. A temporary residence permit allows you to live in Lithuania for the period and purpose approved by the authorities.
At Va Vize, we help you understand the requirements, organise your documents and follow the application process.
Who Can Apply?
For an employment-based application, you generally need a genuine job offer from an eligible Lithuanian employer. The employer, proposed salary and your qualifications or experience must meet the rules applicable to your case. Employment quotas may also affect eligibility, so these conditions should be checked before preparing the application.
What Documents Will You Need?
The exact checklist depends on your nationality, application category and personal circumstances. Common documents include:
- A valid passport.
- Documents supporting your reason for moving, such as employment-related records.
- Evidence of sufficient funds or income.
- Accommodation information.
- Health insurance, where required.
- Criminal record certificates for a first residence permit application.
- Translations and document authentication where applicable.
Your checklist should be confirmed before ordering documents, as certificates may have validity limits or specific formatting requirements.
Criminal Record and Background Checks
For a first residence permit application, the authorities generally require criminal record certificates from relevant countries where you have lived. Any convictions must be disclosed accurately.
A certificate showing no convictions is one part of the assessment; it does not guarantee approval. If your record contains an entry, have the circumstances reviewed before applying rather than assuming the outcome. The authorities assess the application under the applicable immigration and security rules.
How Does the Application Process Work?
1. Check your eligibility
Confirm the correct application category, your employer’s supporting documents where relevant, and where you are eligible to submit the application.
2. Prepare and submit your application
Applications are prepared through MIGRIS, Lithuania’s migration information system. Check that the information matches your passport and supporting documents.
3. Attend the required appointment
Follow the instructions for presenting original documents and providing biometric data. Appointments with external service providers abroad are booked through MIGRIS when the application reaches the appropriate stage.
4. Follow the assessment
Monitor your account and respond to requests for further information. Allow time for document preparation, appointment availability, assessment and card delivery or collection.
5. Arrange your move
Before travelling, confirm your entry documents and card collection arrangements. A pending application or approval notification should not be treated as a substitute for the documents required to cross the border.
Important Changes to Check Before Travelling
From 1 November 2026, the rules for submitting employment and study residence applications from inside Lithuania change. Entering with a Schengen visa or another country’s national visa will not, by itself, allow submission through the Migration Department in Lithuania. Check the permitted submission route before booking travel.
What Are the Benefits?
A valid Lithuanian residence permit provides a legal basis for living in Lithuania under its conditions. An employment-based permit can support working there within the approved arrangements.
With a valid passport and residence permit, you can generally make short visits to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, subject to entry conditions. The card does not automatically give you permission to live or work in Poland, Germany or another European country. Separate requirements apply.
Start with a Clear Plan
Tell Va Vize about your nationality, current country of residence and reason for moving. We can help you understand the next steps and prepare your application. Final decisions are made by the Lithuanian authorities.