Residence Permit in Lithuania – Gateway to the Schengen Zone

If you are looking at how to get a Temporary Residence Permit in Lithuania to immigrate to Europe – you are at the right place. A Residence Permit also called TRP or TRC for business purposes Lithuania is a highly attractive country in all sectors, including study, business, and friendly lifestyle. Lithuanian Residence Permit allows you to travel through all European Union Schengen Countries. There are no any borders between Schengen countries like Germany, France, Belgium, Sweden, Italy and etc.

The countries from which foreigners immigrate to Lithuania can vary over time due to evolving immigration policies and economic conditions. Obtaining a Residence Permit in Lithuania is a highly desirable goal for many business immigrants, offering an attractive gateway to the entire Schengen zone. However, some common countries from which foreigners have historically migrated to Lithuania include Ukraine, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Iran, Nigeria, Turkey, United Kingdom, Germany and others.

A non-EU citizen holding a Lithuanian Temporary Residence Permit – TRP (also called TRC) may remain in Lithuania all year, travel freely within the Schengen Area, and leave and re-enter the country as much as they choose. Residence Permit in Lithuania is initially granted for 2-3 years. After this period TRP card should be renewed.

The most prevalent route to legal residency in Lithuania is through the formation of a company in which one is a shareholder or the company’s CEO.

The BIZBON Immigration lawyers in Lithuania operate remotely, eliminating the need for your physical presence in Lithuania. You can conveniently send all required documents via email or post, and we will handle all necessary documentation remotely, including company registration and immigration documents.

Types of Residence Permits in Lithuania

1.1. Residence Permit combined with Work Permit in Lithuania

1.2. Purchasing an already-running business

1.3. Branch Company Registration in Lithuania – guarantees 3 years Temporary Residence Permit

1.4. Registering a new company

Each method of obtaining TRP will be described in detail below ↓↓↓

1.1. Residence Permit combined with Work Permit in Lithuania

If your profession falls under the Shortage Occupations List in Lithuania, you may be eligible to work without needing a separate work permit. Let’s explore this further:

Understanding Work Permits in Lithuania

• A work permit is a legal document that allows foreign workers to work in a country where they are not citizens.
• Typically, non-EU citizens need a work permit to work in Lithuania. However, there are exceptions for certain professions.

Shortage Occupations

• Shortage occupations are job roles that are in high demand but have a low supply of local workers with the necessary skills or qualifications.
• These occupations are identified annually by the Labour Exchange of Lithuania based on the evolving needs of the economy and labor market.

Exception to Work Permit Requirement

• If your profession is included in the list of shortage occupations, you can work in Lithuania without obtaining a separate work permit.
• This exception simplifies the process for qualified professionals to work and live in Lithuania.

Some of the most in-demand professions in Lithuania include

1. Truck and passenger transport drivers (cab drivers, truck drivers).
2. Doctors (across different specialties).
3. Engineers (across different fields).
4. Couriers.
5. Managers (business sector, sales area, customer support).
6. Chefs.
7. Tailors.
8. Programmers (across different directions).
9. Sellers.
10. Workers in agriculture.
11. Social workers.
12. Marketing specialists.
13. Construction workers (electricians, welders, concrete workers).
14. Financiers.

Remember that Lithuania provides unique opportunities for professionals in shortage occupations. If your occupation is on the list, you can directly apply for a Lithuanian 2-year Residence Permit and start your job in this beautiful European country!

For prices and for more information on how to process a Lithuanian Work Permit please find here

1.2. Purchasing an already-running business (company older than 6 months)

If you’re interested in obtaining a Lithuanian residence permit by purchasing an already-running business, here are the key steps and requirements:

Business Acquisition

• You can buy an existing Lithuanian company that is already operational. This is considered one of the most accessible ways to obtain a residence permit.
• Alternatively, you can purchase a portion (1/3 or more) of an already-running business. In this case, you’ll need documentation showing the business activities for a minimum of 6 months.

General Requirements
The business entity must fulfill the following criteria:

• Be active for at least 6 months before applying for a Lithuanian residence permit.
• Have an active bank account, partnership agreements, and other relevant documentation.
• Employ at least one Lithuanian citizen (who can also be a foreign citizen permanently residing in Lithuania).
• The value of the company must be at least 28,000 euros in terms of share capital.
• The company should have a salary for the Lithuanian employee not less than two average salaries in Lithuania.

Residence Permit Application

• Once you meet the requirements, you can apply for a temporary residence permit through the Lithuanian Migration Information System (MIGRIS) or VFS Global.
• The residence permit allows you to live and work in Lithuania while managing the business.

Investment Option

• If you’re investing in an already-running business, you don’t need to make additional investments. The company’s existing income should cover expenses.
• You can purchase 33% or more of the business and apply for a residence permit based on this investment.

Remember that the rules and requirements may vary slightly depending on whether you’re establishing a new company, buying an existing one, or investing in a branch office. It’s advisable to consult with legal experts or immigration authorities for personalized guidance. Best of luck with your business venture in Lithuania!

BIZBON immigration lawyer in Lithuania offers businesses for sale. List of available businesses you can find here

1.3. Branch Company Registration in Lithuania

If you have a company outside the European Union you can register a branch company in Lithuania and get TRP for 3 Years. Here are the general steps and considerations for obtaining a residence permit by registering a branch company in Lithuania:

Branch Company Registration

• Establish a branch company in Lithuania. Unlike other methods, this approach does not require you to work or keep the company active for a specific duration before applying for a residence permit.
• The branch company can be set up quickly, and you can proceed with the application process without delay.

General Requirements
The branch company must fulfill the following criteria:

• Be registered in Lithuania.
• Employ at least one foreign worker (you or your employees).

Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) Application

• Once the branch company is registered, you can apply for a temporary residence permit through the Lithuanian Migration Information System (MIGRIS) or VFS Global.
• The TRP allows you to live and work in Lithuania while managing the branch company.
• You can also include your family members in the application. They will receive TRPs for the same 3-year period as yours.

Required Documents
To use the immigration program, you’ll need to provide the following documents:

• Copy of your passport.
• Proof of your address of living in Lithuania (you can declare this once you collect your Residence Permit Card).
• Legalized company registration certificate and statutes (with Apostille).
• Employment contract showing that you’ve been working in your home country’s company for at least 6 months.
• Letter of appointment from your home country company, specifying the duration of the internal transfer, branch company address, your position, a monthly wage, and an undertaking that you’ll return to the home company after the TRP period.
• Qualification and vocational experience documents (e.g., your CV).
• Legalized police clearance certificate (with Apostille).
• Foreigner’s health insurance covers all TRP periods.

For more information, pricing and how to proceed please find here.

1.4. Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) Lithuania by registering a new company

To obtain a temporary residence permit in Lithuania by registering a new company, an immigration lawyer advises following these steps:

Company Formation

• Establish a company in Lithuania. There are no residency requirements for founders, directors, and shareholders. You can register a company with 100% foreign participation.
• Prepare a business plan outlining the activities your company will carry out for at least 6 months

Company Requirements
The company must:

• Operate following the business plan for at least 6 months. Only after 6 months you will be able to apply for a Lithuania TRP. To wait 6 months you will need to apply for a One Year D-Type visa, then you can stay legally in Lithuania.
• Have a company’s share capital of at least 28,000 euros (can be included 2 shareholders) or 42.000 Euros capital (can be included 3 shareholders)
• Before submitting the documents for the TRP you must employ at least one citizen of Lithuania, other EU member states, or foreigners permanently residing in Lithuania, with a gross monthly salary not less than 2 average monthly salaries of employees in the national economy.

Applicant Requirements:
You must be:

• The head of the company or a shareholder of a company.
• An owner of at least 1/3 of the authorized capital of the company.
• In the case of MB or UAB, you must own shares with a nominal value of at least 14,000 euros and be able to show 14.000 Eur in your Lithuanian company’s bank account.

Application Process:

• Apply online for a temporary residence permit through the Lithuanian Migration Information System (MIGRIS) or the nearest VFS Global.
• Provide the necessary documents, including a valid ID or passport, health insurance, proof of payment of the state fee, and other documents that BIZBON wil help you to prepare.

Remember that Lithuania offers a favorable environment for business immigration, with a low corporate income tax rate and reasonable living costs. Good luck with your company registration and residence permit journey!

While the normal processing period for a temporary residence visa in Lithuania is two to four months, you may be able to receive yours sooner. The government will need you to follow particular processes, and BIZBON Immigration lawyers in Lithuania are here to assist. This way, you can be certain that you will get the assistance you need to legally get Lithuanian residence. If you are considering moving to Europe and acquiring a Residence Permit in Lithuania, BIZBON consultants can help you with the appropriate paperwork.

Required documents for a TRC Lithuania

What documentation you will need to get a temporary or permanent residence permit in Lithuania depends on the particular circumstances you are applying for. However, here are a handful of the most often requested documents:

• You must have a valid passport for at least six months after your intended departure date from Lithuania.
• As proof of housing, a lease agreement or letter of confirmation from your host in Lithuania will serve.
• Financial stability
• Proof of valid health insurance in Lithuania is necessary.
• Police clearance certificate legalized (i.e. Apostilled)
• Investments at least 14.000 Eur (not applicable for Work Permit Option).

Documents certification with an Apostille

Except for documents produced in EU member states, Russia, Moldova, and Ukraine, all foreign-issued documents (other than passports) must be translated into Lithuanian and legalized or certified with an Apostille. The Republic of Lithuania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has produced an online list of nations requiring Apostille certification for official documents. Foreign papers must be authenticated (approved twice: once by the country’s official authority or diplomatic mission and once by the Republic of Lithuania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs).

Lithuanian immigration via company/business/investment

Company ownership/management
More information on TRC in Lithuania

In one company can include 1-4 persons and their family members – all of them will get a Residence Permit; there may be three stockholders and one managing director. There are no nationality limitations. A shareholder-director may apply for Lithuanian resident permits, which are valid for two years. After five years, a temporary resident may apply for a permanent residence permit.

The business/company must fulfill the standards of the migration department.

• The minimum share capital for the firm is 28,000,- EUR, and each shareholder must have at least 14,000,- EUR. At least 42,000 EUR in share capital is required for three stockholders. The company must also recruit at least one Lithuanian citizen. Investments should be Transferred into a Lithuanian company account.
• The firm must be in existence for at least six months. This implies that you must operate a company for six months before applying for a Lithuanian resident visa. They will want bank statements, sales and purchase invoices, partnership contracts, office leasing agreements, and employment contracts from Lithuanians.
• Application for the TRP you should submit at the nearest VFS Global office, or in the Lithuanian Immigration Office through MIGRIS online system.

How to get a Residence Permit in Lithuania?

Short description of how to start the Immigration process for a TRC in Lithuania.

1. Client sends us [email protected] a copy of passport, and address of living and pays an advance payment of 50%. Payment options you can find here.
2. BIZBON will prepare the necessary documents for the Client to sign. Documents will be sent by email.
3. After BIZBON receives the documents and a prepayment from the Client, it takes around one week to arrange a full package of documents for the Client of company registration in Lithuania.
4. When a company is registered under the Client’s name, we will scan the company registration certificate with your name and send it to you by email. Following that the Client has to pay the remaining payment of 50% of the total amount.
5. Finally, we will send you a package of the documents to you and you can submit the documents for the residence permit at the nearest VFS Global office in your or another country or at the Lithuania Immigration Office MIGRIS.

* Once decided to start immigration by registering a new company – then immigration to Lithuania also means that your company during the last six months prior to submitting an application form for TRP has to be already running (has an active bank account, contracts with partners, office, website, employees and etc.).

The decision for a Temporary Residence Permit takes about 2 months after documents are submitted to the Immigration Office in Lithuania or at the VFS Global office. TRP Lithuanian will be issued for 2 years period, or, another option: if you register a branch company then you will get TRP for 3 years. After 5 years you will be able to apply for Permanent Residence Permit which will be issued for 5 years period. After this, you can apply for a Lithuanian Passport and citizenship.

Schengen Countries that you can visit with your Lithuanian residence permit

1. Austria 2. Belgium 3. Czech Republic 4. Denmark 5. Estonia 6. Finland 7. France 8. Germany 9. Greece 10. Hungary 11. Iceland 12. Italy 13. Latvia 14. Liechtenstein 15. Lithuania 16. Luxembourg 17. Malta 18. Netherlands 19. Norway 20. Poland 21. Portugal 22. Slovakia 23. Slovenia 24. Spain 25. Sweden 26. Switzerland

If you have a resident permit in Lithuania, you have the right to 90 days of visa-free travel inside the Schengen Area every 180 days. You may freely travel between any Schengen countries as long as your journey does not exceed 90 days. To stay in another Schengen country for more than 90 days, you must get a visa or a resident permit from that country. List of the Schengen countries:

Lithuanian PERMANENT Residence Permit (PRP)

After five years of living in Lithuania with a TRP Lithuania, an individual is eligible to apply for a Lithuania Permanent Residence Permit also called PRP for a period of 5 years. You may get a temporary residency permit and renew it for as many years as you want 5, 10, 15, or 20 or more years. But if you want to immigrate to Lithuania permanently, you will be required to live here for five years as a Lithuania temporary residence permit holder, pay taxes, and pass the Lithuanian language and State Constitution knowledge exam. The Education Development Center administers and manages the exams.

For foreigners interested in obtaining a residence permit in Lithuania, or eventually a Lithuanian passport, the process involves a period of continuous residence. Upon completing ten years of uninterrupted residency in Lithuania, you become eligible to apply for citizenship of the Republic of Lithuania and subsequently, a Lithuanian passport. This follows the termination of your Permanent Residence Permit in Lithuania after the ten-year period.

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BIZBON immigration lawyer is a one-stop destination that provides you assistance with everything you need to get a TRC in Lithuanian and helps you in easing every stage of business immigration along with all the services that are required to settle in the country

Related links on How to Get a Residence Permit in Lithuania

One-Year Multiple Entry Schengen Visa Type-D

Before Starting the Business in Lithuania

Cost Of Living & Why Should You Choose Lithuania?

Official website with up to date requirements for the immigration to Lithuania