For non-EU citizens, there are specific circumstances allowing work in Lithuania without a permit, primarily for jobs requiring high-level professional qualifications. The employer can obtain a decision on compliance with labor market needs from the Migration Department under the Ministry of the Interior.
Types of Lithuania Work Permits:
- Work visa for highly skilled workers (EU Blue Card)
- Work visa for intra-company transfers
- Work permit for employment in Lithuania
- Seasonal work visa
Applying for a Lithuania Work Visa: To apply for a Lithuania work visa, follow these steps:
- Obtain the work permit from the Lithuania Labour Exchange, applied for by your employer.
- Locate the nearest Lithuanian embassy/consulate and apply for a work visa before a temporary residence permit.
- Fill out the national visa application form available on the Migration Department website.
- Collect required documents, including a valid passport, mediation letter, work permit, health insurance, criminal record proof, professional accreditation, etc.
- Attend the embassy/consulate appointment and wait for processing, usually taking around two weeks.
Lithuania Work Visa Requirements: Ensure you have the following documents for a Lithuania long-stay work visa:
- Long-stay visa application form.
- A mediation (invitation) letter specifying the Lithuanian employer and employee.
- Valid passport with two blank pages.
- Work permit issued by the Lithuanian Labour Exchange.
- Proof of sufficient means of subsistence (bank statement).
- Health insurance for entry and enrollment in the national compulsory health insurance system.
- Proof of no criminal record (not older than three months).
- Professional accreditation document, translated or written in Lithuanian.
All documents must be legalized and bear the apostille stamp.
Lithuania Work Visa Fees: The long-stay work visa costs €120, payable at the Lithuanian embassy or consulate. A proof document must be added to the online visa application.
Duration of a Lithuania Work Visa: Issued for a maximum of one year, the visa can be extended annually. After five years, a permanent residence permit and Lithuanian citizenship can be obtained.
Extending a Lithuania Work Visa: To extend your stay, apply for a work permit extension, and your employer must seek an extension. Beyond one year, a temporary residence permit is required for continued stay in Lithuania.
Bringing Your Family Along: With a valid work and temporary residence permit, family members can join through a family reunification visa.
Additional Information:
- Health Insurance is mandatory in Lithuania and can be obtained at the National Health Insurance Fund.
- Living Costs and Average Salary: Lithuania offers affordable living, with costs ranging from €800 to €1400, and the average salary is €1400 per month.