Lithuania Work Visa 2024: Visa Types, Requirements & Application Process

Seeking employment in Lithuania? This extensive resource offers full details on work visas for Lithuania, covering categories, prerequisites, the application procedure, and living expenses. Find out why Lithuania is a fantastic place for job seekers to relocate.

One of the Baltic states, Lithuania, is quickly becoming a hub for job seekers around Europe. Recognized for its flourishing economy, advantageous business climate, and superior standard of living, Lithuania is fast emerging as a leading choice for professionals seeking to progress their careers.

The nation has a lot of chances for qualified individuals and places a lot of emphasis on innovation, particularly in the fields of banking and IT. Lithuania is a desirable location to live and work because of its low cost of living and lively cultural environment.

Why Choose Lithuania?

• Robust Economy: The Lithuanian economy is expanding quickly, particularly in the areas of industry, technology, and renewable energy, which is driving up demand for qualified workers.
• High-quality Education: Employers can always find top talent in Lithuania because of the country’s education system, which generates highly qualified graduates in business, IT, and engineering.
• Cheap Living: Compared to Western Europe, Lithuania has a lower cost of living, which makes it possible to live comfortably and save money.
• Cultural Richness: Lithuania is a desirable and culturally stimulating country to live and work in because of its rich history, lively arts scene, and kind people.

Recognizing the Requirements for a Lithuanian Work Permit

Knowing the procedures for obtaining a visa is crucial if you’re thinking about working in Lithuania. Visas are not needed for workers in Lithuania who are citizens of EU or EEA nations. Nonetheless, to lawfully work in the nation, non-EU citizens must acquire a work visa. The kind of visa you require is determined by your employment and credentials.

Types of Work Permits in Lithuania

Lithuania provides a variety of work licenses suited to various job scenarios. Below is a summary of the primary choices:

1. EU Blue Card

A visa especially intended for highly qualified non-EU professionals is the EU Blue Card. The European Union is attempting to draw talent to important sectors including engineering, IT, healthcare, and more. After a few years of employment, the Blue Card provides a pathway to permanent residency in addition to the ability to work in Lithuania.

Conditions:

• An official employment contract or job offer from a Lithuanian employer.
• Evidence of advanced learning or professional credentials, such as a university degree or its equivalent.
• The position must pay at least 1.5 times the average gross yearly wage in Lithuania and be in a highly skilled profession.
• The duration of the visit in Lithuania is covered by health insurance.

Ideal Match for:

• Professionals have advanced degrees in sectors such as engineering, information technology, healthcare, and other specialized businesses.
• Those looking to work in Lithuania for a long time to become permanent residents.

2. Intra-Company Transfer Visa

Employees of multinational corporations who are being transferred to a Lithuanian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate of their existing employer are eligible to apply for the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa. This visa makes it easier to move important employees to Lithuania, allowing companies to function internationally without interruption.

Conditions:

• A work agreement with the parent firm is valid for a minimum of six months before the transfer.
• A legitimate employment offer from the affiliate or branch in Lithuania.
• Evidence that the role calls for particular expertise or managerial abilities.
• The candidate needs to be in a senior role or have specific knowledge that is essential to the business’s operations.

Ideal Match for:

• People who have worked for international companies for a considerable amount of time.
• Senior managers, executives, and experts with exceptional abilities are crucial to the business’s operations in Lithuania.

3. General Employment Work Permit

In Lithuania, the most popular visa for international workers is the General Employment Work Permit. This visa is necessary for non-EU nationals looking for work in the nation and applies to a variety of professions. It needs the endorsement of an employer and the Lithuanian government’s permission.

Conditions:

• A job offer from an employer in Lithuania.
• Evidence that the employer tested the labor market to make sure there were no qualified candidates in the area.
• Health insurance is provided throughout the term of employment.
• Evidence of having enough money to sustain oneself while visiting.

Ideal Match for:

• Professionals from outside the EU looking for work in Lithuania in a variety of fields.
• People seeking employment in Lithuania for a particular employer who has extended an employment offer to them and is prepared to sponsor their work visa.

4. Seasonal Work Visa

The Seasonal Work Visa is intended for temporary work in industries like hospitality, tourism, and agriculture that have cyclical demand. For anyone searching for temporary employment in Lithuania, often lasting a few months, this visa is perfect.

Conditions:

• An employment offer for a seasonal position from a Lithuanian company.
• Evidence of lodging for the duration of the visit to Lithuania.
• The term of health insurance is the same as the length of employment.
• Adequate financial resources to sustain oneself while visiting.

Ideal Match for:

• Workers looking for temporary work, usually during the busiest times of the year, in sectors like hospitality, tourism, or agriculture.
• Those who would rather work in temporary positions and do not plan to relocate permanently to Lithuania.

Steps to Apply for a Lithuanian Work Visa

Getting a Lithuanian work visa requires taking a few crucial steps:

• Obtain the Work Permit: To obtain a work permit on your behalf, your employer must apply. This is the first step that is essential to your application for a visa.
• Find the Lithuanian Embassy or Consulate in Your Area: Locate the Lithuanian diplomatic mission that is closest to you and submit your visa application there, depending on where you live.
• Fill out the application for a national visa. Complete the application form completely, including any information that is required regarding your expected stay and job in Lithuania.
• Keep your appointment for a visa: Make an appointment at the Lithuanian consulate or embassy and show up. Prepare yourself for questions regarding your employment history and credentials during the interview.
• Collect All Necessary Paperwork: Gather and turn in any necessary paperwork, such as your work permit, passport, and job certificate, together with any additional supporting documentation.
• Await the Resolution: The time it takes to complete your application once it is submitted could vary. While you await the embassy’s judgment, you must exercise patience.

Requirements for a Lithuanian Work Visa

Depending on your country of origin and the kind of visa you’re requesting, there may be differences in the particular requirements for a Lithuanian work permit. But a few standard prerequisites are as follows:

• An up-to-date passport.
• Authorities in Lithuania awarded a work permit.
• Evidence of employment (contract or job offer).
• Proof of enough financial resources.
• Health insurance protection.
• A completed application for a visa.

Temporary Residence Permit Requirement

Lithuania has recently enforced additional standards for foreign workers, on top of the regular criteria. Most foreign nationals looking for work in Lithuania will need to have a temporary residency visa as of July 1, 2024. The purpose of these new regulations is to better control labor migration.

Lithuanian Work Visa Processing Time

A Lithuanian work visa normally takes ten to thirty days to process. However, processing times may differ based on the nature of your application and the embassy’s workload.

Work Visa Fees for Lithuania

Typically, the application fee for a work visa to Lithuania is approximately €120. Services like expedited processing or document translation may incur additional costs.

Extension and Validity of Work Permit

Typically, a work visa to Lithuania is good for a year, though it can be extended. You must reapply before your existing visa expires and present proof of continuous employment if you want to renew it.

Visiting Lithuania with Your Family

Your spouse and kids may accompany you if you have a valid work visa for Lithuania. To be able to reside and, in certain situations, work in Lithuania, they might have to apply for a family reunification visa.

Things to Consider When Working in Lithuania

• Health Insurance: In Lithuania, health insurance is required. This might be provided by your work, but make sure you get coverage for the whole time you’re there.
• Living Expenses and Wage Expectations: In comparison to Western Europe, Lithuania offers very reduced living expenses. The typical monthly income varies based on experience and profession, from €1,500 to €1,000.

Conclusion

Lithuania is a desirable location for international job seekers. Due to its high level of life, diversified job market, and expanding economy, Europe is a top destination for individuals wishing to pursue a career in the continent. You can obtain a Lithuanian work visa and start your new career by properly completing the application process and being aware of the conditions for the visa.