Your Complete Guide to the Lithuania Work Visa: Requirements, Process, and Job Opportunities

Lithuania is one of the fastest-growing employment destinations in the Baltic region. With strong demand in manufacturing, logistics, construction, transport, IT, engineering, food processing, and services, Lithuanian employers actively hire non-EU workers to address labour shortages.

As a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, Lithuania offers foreign workers legal employment, EU-standard labour protections, and structured pathways to long-term residence.

This guide explains everything you need to know in a clear, practical, and human tone.

Why Apply for a Lithuania Work Visa?

Lithuania offers foreign workers:

• High demand for non-EU workers
• Relatively fast work permit and visa processing
• Competitive wages with a lower cost of living
• EU labour law protections
• Clear employer-sponsored visa system
• Long-term residence and renewal options
• Access to the Schengen Area

Step-by-Step Lithuania Work Visa Process

Step 1: Secure a job offer from a Lithuanian employer

Only legally registered Lithuanian employers can hire non-EU nationals.

Step 2: Employer applies for work authorisation

The employer submits documents to the Employment Service under the Ministry of Social Security and Labour.

Step 3: Work authorisation approval

Once approved, the employer confirms the visa or residence permit application.

Step 4: Book an appointment at the Lithuanian Embassy or VFS

Schedule document submission and biometrics.

Step 5: Submit documents and biometrics

Please make sure all documents are accurate and complete.

Step 6: Attend the visa interview (if required)

Questions usually focus on your job role, employer, and length of stay.

Step 7: Visa approval and travel to Lithuania

After approval, the national work visa is stamped into your passport.

Lithuania Work Visa From Abroad

Non-EU nationals apply for a National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) or a Temporary Residence Permit for Employment, depending on the duration of the job.

Applications are submitted at the Lithuanian Embassy, Consulate, or VFS Global in the applicant’s home country.

Types of Lithuanian Work and Residence Permits

1. Temporary Residence Permit for Employment

The most common permit for foreign workers in Lithuania.

2. EU Blue Card

For highly skilled professionals meeting salary and qualification thresholds.

3. Short-Term Employment Permit

For employment up to 90 days.

4. Seasonal Work Permit

For agriculture, food processing, and seasonal industries.

5. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Permit

For employees transferred from foreign branches to Lithuania.

Benefits of a Lithuanian Work Permit

• Legal right to live and work in Lithuania
• Protection under EU labour laws
• Access to public healthcare and social security
• Possibility to renew and extend permits
• Family reunification eligibility
• Long-term residence and permanent settlement pathways
• Free movement within the Schengen Area

Eligibility Criteria for a Lithuanian Work Visa

Applicants must have:

• A valid job offer from a Lithuanian employer
• Approved work authorisation or residence permit
• Relevant skills or work experience
• Salary meeting Lithuanian legal requirements
• Clean criminal record
• Valid passport
• Proof of accommodation
• Health insurance coverage

Lithuania Work Visa Requirements

Most applicants must submit:

• Valid passport
• Completed visa or residence permit application form
• Passport-size photographs
• Work authorisation or residence permit approval
• Signed employment contract
• Proof of accommodation in Lithuania
• Police clearance certificate
• Health insurance
• Proof of qualifications or experience
• Visa fee payment receipt

The embassy may request additional documents.

How to Apply for a Lithuania Work Visa (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Find a registered Lithuanian employer

Could you make sure the employer is authorised to hire non-EU workers?

Step 2: Employer applies for work authorisation

Submitted to Lithuanian labour authorities.

Step 3: Receive approval

Required before submitting a visa or residence permit application.

Step 4: Book an embassy or VFS appointment

Schedule your visa application.

Step 5: Submit documents and biometrics

Double-check accuracy and completeness.

Step 6: Attend interview (if required)

Could you explain your job role and employer clearly?

Step 7: Visa approval and travel

Once approved, travel to Lithuania and begin employment.

Tips to Avoid Lithuania Work Visa Rejection

• Apply only through legitimate, registered employers
• Submit complete and genuine documentation
• Ensure salary meets legal requirements
• Match your skills with the job role
• Avoid unauthorised agents
• Prepare well for the embassy interview

Top In-Demand Occupations in Lithuania

Below is an updated list of Lithuania’s most in-demand jobs with approximate monthly gross salary ranges.

Occupation	Monthly Salary (EUR)	Requirements	Suitable For
Factory Worker	€1,100 – €1,700	No experience	Entry-level
Machine Operator	€1,300 – €2,100	Technical skills	Semi-skilled
CNC Operator	€1,600 – €2,600	CNC experience	Skilled workers
Welder	€1,500 – €2,500	Certification	Technicians
Electrician	€1,600 – €2,700	Qualification	Skilled trades
Construction Worker	€1,300 – €2,100	Experience	Labour
Warehouse Worker	€1,200 – €1,900	Physical fitness	Entry-level
Forklift Operator	€1,300 – €2,000	Forklift licence	Logistics
Truck Driver (C/CE)	€1,900 – €3,000	Valid licence	Drivers
Hotel & Restaurant Staff	€1,100 – €1,600	Basic English	Hospitality
Chef / Cook	€1,500 – €2,500	Experience	Culinary
Cleaner / Housekeeping	€900 – €1,300	No experience	Beginners
Caregiver	€1,200 – €1,900	Training	Healthcare
Nurse	€1,800 – €3,000	Qualification	Healthcare
IT Support	€1,800 – €3,000	IT background	IT workers
Software Developer	€2,500 – €4,500	Programming	Developers

Summary of Lithuania’s Most Needed Job Sectors

1. Manufacturing & Industry

Machinery, electronics, furniture, and food processing.

2. Construction & Skilled Trades

Infrastructure and residential development projects.

3. Logistics & Transport

Warehousing, freight transport, and truck driving.

4. Hospitality & Services

Hotels, restaurants, and tourism services.

5. Healthcare

Ongoing demand for nurses and caregivers.

6. Information Technology

Software development and IT support roles.

Lithuania Work Visa Processing Time

• Work Authorisation / Residence Permit: 4–8 weeks
• Visa Processing: 2–4 weeks
• Total Timeline: 2–4 months

Processing time depends on workload and documentation quality.

Lithuania Work Visa Cost

Typical expenses include:

• Visa Fee: €75 – €100
• Residence Permit Fee: €120 – €160
• Health Insurance: €30 – €80
• Document Translation & Legalisation: €50 – €150

Employers often assist with permit-related costs.

Official Government Job Portals in Lithuania

Lithuania provides official platforms for verified job searches and employment information.

Employment Service of Lithuania

Website: https://uzt.lt

Provides:

• Verified job listings
• Labour market information
• Employer services
• Guidance for foreign workers

Work in Lithuania

Website: https://workinlithuania.com

Provides:

• Jobs for international professionals
• Employer connections
• Living and working guidance

EURES – European Job Mobility Portal

Website: https://eures.ec.europa.eu

Provides:

• Lithuania job listings
• EU employment support

Government Information on Work Permits in Lithuania

Migration Department under the Ministry of Interior:

https://www.migracija.lt

Includes:

• Residence permit categories
• Application procedures
• Employer obligations

Temporary & Permanent Residence in Lithuania

Official Information:

https://www.migracija.lt

Explains:

• Residence permit renewals
• Long-term residence eligibility
• Permanent settlement rules

Official Lithuania Visa Information

Ministry of Foreign Affairs:

https://www.urm.lt

Provides:

• Visa requirements
• Embassy locations
• Application procedures

Locate Lithuanian Embassies and Consulates

Official Directory:

https://www.urm.lt/en/diplomatic-missions

Safe Use of Government Portals

Always:

• Use official government websites
• Verify employer registration
• Avoid agents promising guaranteed visas
• Confirm work authorisation before visa submission
• Never pay for fake job offers

How Can M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Help You?

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. is a trusted EU-based immigration support company offering clear, transparent, and personalised assistance.

Our services include:

• Free eligibility assessment
• One-on-one career consultation
• Complete Lithuania work visa & residence permit guidance
• Document preparation and verification
• EU job search assistance
• Language and skill pathway support
• End-to-end immigration process management

Whether you’re planning to work in Lithuania or build a long-term future in Europe, our team ensures accurate, reliable, and fully tailored support at every stage.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Lithuania Work Visa

1. What is a Lithuanian work visa?

A Lithuanian work visa is a long-stay Type D national visa or residence permit that allows non-EU nationals to enter Lithuania for employment and live and work legally in the country.

2. Who needs a Lithuanian work visa to work legally?

All citizens of non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss countries must obtain a Lithuanian work visa and residence permit before starting employment.

3. What is the central work permit system in Lithuania?

Lithuania issues a Temporary Residence Permit for Employment, which allows a foreign national to live and work in Lithuania for a specific employer.

4. Is a job offer mandatory for a Lithuanian work visa?

Yes. A confirmed job offer or signed employment contract from a registered Lithuanian employer is mandatory.

5. Who applies for the work authorisation in Lithuania—the employer or the employee?

The employer applies for work authorisation or submits an employment mediation request, while the employee applies for the visa or residence permit.

6. What are the main types of Lithuanian work permits?

Common categories include:

• Temporary Residence Permit for Employment
• EU Blue Card
• Seasonal Work Permit
• Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Permit
• Highly Qualified Specialist Permit

7. What documents are required for a Lithuanian work visa?

Applicants generally need:

• Valid passport
• Long-stay visa or residence permit application
• Approved employment authorisation
• Employment contract
• Proof of accommodation
• Police clearance certificate
• Health insurance
• Passport-size photographs
• Application fee receipt

8. How long does the processing of a Lithuanian work permit take?

Work authorisation processing typically takes 1–2 months, depending on the Migration Department workload.

9. How long does visa processing take at the Lithuanian embassy?

Visa processing usually takes 10–30 days after work authorisation approval.

10. How long is a Lithuanian work visa valid?

Work visas and residence permits are generally issued for up to 1 year and are renewable.

11. Can I extend my stay in Lithuania?

Yes. Temporary residence permits can be renewed if employment continues and requirements are met.

12. Can I change employers in Lithuania?

Yes, but a new work authorisation and updated residence permit are required.

13. What is the Lithuanian residence permit for employment?

It is a biometric residence card that allows a foreign national to live and work in Lithuania legally.

14. What is the EU Blue Card in Lithuania?

The EU Blue Card allows highly qualified professionals to work in Lithuania, with enhanced mobility rights and faster eligibility for long-term residence.

15. Is biometric registration required for Lithuania work visas?

Yes. Biometrics are collected at the time of residence permit issuance.

16. Is a criminal background certificate required?

Yes. Applicants must provide a clean police clearance certificate from their home country.

17. Is health insurance mandatory for Lithuania work visas?

Yes. Private health insurance is required initially until the worker is enrolled in Lithuania’s public healthcare system.

18. Are medical tests required for Lithuania work visas?

Medical examinations may be required depending on the embassy and job type.

19. Do I need to speak Lithuanian to work in Lithuania?

Lithuanian language skills are helpful but not mandatory for many jobs. English or Russian is often sufficient in manufacturing, logistics, and IT.

20. Which industries hire the most foreign workers in Lithuania?

High-demand sectors include:

• Manufacturing & factories
• Logistics & warehousing
• Construction & skilled trades
• Transport & truck driving
• Information technology
• Agriculture & food processing

21. Is Lithuania a good destination for foreign workers?

Yes. Lithuania offers growing labour demand, relatively affordable living, and stable EU residence opportunities.

22. Can I bring my family to Lithuania on a work visa?

Yes. Lithuania allows family reunification for spouses and dependent children.

23. Can my spouse work in Lithuania?

Yes. Spouses of work permit holders are generally allowed to work without restrictions.

24. Can I work in other EU countries with a Lithuanian work visa?

No. Employment rights are limited to Lithuania only.

25. Can I travel within Schengen with a Lithuanian work visa?

Yes. Lithuania is part of the Schengen Area, allowing short-term travel across member states.

26. What is the minimum wage in Lithuania?

Lithuania’s minimum wage is approximately €924 gross per month, subject to annual updates.

27. Does Lithuania pay overtime?

Yes. Over time, night shifts, weekends, and public holidays are compensated under Lithuanian labour law.

28. Do Lithuanian employers provide accommodation?

Many employers, especially in construction, logistics, and agriculture, offer free or subsidised accommodation.

29. Are meals or food allowances provided by employers?

Some employers provide meal allowances or subsidised meals, depending on the sector.

30. What happens if my employer cancels the job offer?

Your visa or residence permit may be cancelled unless a new employer applies for fresh authorisation.

31. Do Lithuanian authorities verify job offers?

Yes. Employers and employment contracts are verified by labour and migration authorities.

32. Are bank statements required for Lithuania work visas?

Some embassies may request proof of sufficient financial means.

33. Can I apply for a Lithuanian work visa without an agent?

Yes. Lithuania allows direct applications through official embassy and government procedures.

34. What are standard working hours in Lithuania?

The standard workweek is 40 hours, with regulated overtime.

35. Does Lithuania allow fixed-term employment contracts?

Yes. Fixed-term contracts are standard, especially for seasonal and project-based employment.

36. Can I apply for permanent residence in Lithuania?

Yes. After 5 years of continuous legal residence, you may apply for permanent residence.

37. Can international students in Lithuania switch to work permits?

Yes. Graduates can switch to employment-based residence permits after securing a job.

38. Is there an age limit for Lithuania work visas?

There is no official age limit. Employment suitability and compliance matter most.

39. Can I work part-time on a Lithuanian work visa?

Only if your residence permit explicitly allows part-time employment.

40. Which authority issues Lithuanian work permits?

The Lithuanian Migration Department issues work permits and residence permits.

41. Can I start working immediately after arriving in Lithuania?

Yes, once your residence permit application is submitted and employment registration is completed.

42. What is the Lithuanian residence card?

It is a biometric ID card confirming your legal residence and right to work in Lithuania.

43. Do I need to register my address in Lithuania?

Yes. Address registration is mandatory for residence permits, tax registration, and public services.

44. Are seasonal work permits available in Lithuania?

Yes. Seasonal permits are available mainly in agriculture, forestry, and food processing.

45. Can I start a business on a Lithuanian work visa?

No. Business activities require a self-employment or business residence permit.

46. Who pays the Lithuania work permit fees?

Employers usually pay work authorisation fees, while applicants pay visa fees.

47. How long does the complete Lithuania work visa process take?

The complete process usually takes 2–3 months, depending on documentation and workload.

48. Do documents need to be translated for Lithuania?

Yes. Documents must be translated into Lithuanian or English by certified translators.

49. Can I switch from seasonal work to long-term employment?

Yes, but you must secure a standard employment contract and apply for a new residence permit.

50. Is Lithuania suitable for long-term settlement?

Yes. Lithuania offers EU residence benefits, family reunification, affordable living, and clear pathways to permanent residence and citizenship.