Lithuania is an EU and Schengen member offering an affordable lifestyle, a stable economy, and one of the simplest immigration processes in Europe. Whether you want to work, study, invest, or start a business, this guide covers everything you need to know, from visa types to cost of living, processing times, and long-term residency options.
To immigrate to Estonia as a non-EU citizen, you must first obtain a residence permit. There are several ways to apply for this, including being accepted into a university, receiving a job offer from an Estonian employer, presenting an innovative business plan to start a company, or joining family members who are already living there.
Types of Residence Permits:
- Temporary Residence Permit (TR): This permit is issued for specific purposes like studying, working, starting a business, or family visits.
- Permanent Residence Permit (PR): You become eligible to apply for this after residing in Estonia with a temporary permit for five to ten years.
📌 Find out if you qualify! Complete our quick assessment form to see your options.
Quick Facts: Immigration to Lithuania
Category | Details |
---|---|
EU & Schengen Member | Yes |
Visa Needed for EU Citizens | No |
Visa Needed for Non-EU Citizens | Yes |
Main Visa Types | Short-term, Long-term, Work, Study, Investment, Start-up |
Average Work Visa Processing | ~15 days |
Temporary Residence Validity | 5 years |
Path to Permanent Residence | After 5 years |
Path to Citizenship | After 10 years |
Investment Visa | Yes |
Start-up Visa | Yes |
Personal Income Tax | 20% |
Foreign Income Tax | None |
Why Lithuania Is a Top Choice for Immigration
- Low living costs compared to Western Europe.
- Fast visa processing (many within 15–30 days).
- Pro-business environment with government support for start-ups and investors.
- EU & Schengen access for visa-free travel across 26 countries.
- Path to citizenship after 10 years of continuous residence.
- Tax advantages, 20% income tax and no tax on foreign-earned income.
Main Pathways to Move to Lithuania

Work Immigration
- Requirement: Job offer from a Lithuanian employer.
- Processing time: Around 15 days.
- Benefits: Temporary residence → Permanent residence → Citizenship.
- Best for: Skilled workers in IT, engineering, healthcare, transport, and construction.
How to Apply:
Apply for a work visa through the MIGRIS system or a Lithuanian embassy.
Secure a job offer via platforms like LinkedIn Jobs, CVBankas.lt, or Work in Lithuania.
Sign an employment contract.

Start-up Visa
Aimed at non-EU entrepreneurs with innovative ideas in technology, fintech, health, or digital services.
Requirements:
- Approved business plan.
- Registration of a Lithuanian company (minimum capital €2,800).
Steps:
- Develop and submit your business plan at Startup Visa Lithuania.
- Get evaluation and approval.
- Register your company in Lithuania.
- Apply for a 1-year temporary residence permit (renewable).

Investment Immigration
Temporary residence → Permanent residence after 5 years → Citizenship after 10.
- Minimum capital: €2,800 to start a company.
- Requirements: Hire 1–3 Lithuanian employees and operate actively.

Study Immigration
- Why choose Lithuania: English-taught programs, low tuition, and post-graduation work options.
- Requirements: Admission letter, proof of funds, and health insurance.
- Benefits: Work up to 20 hours/week during studies.

Family Reunification
- Requirement: Close family member with legal residence in Lithuania.
- Benefit: Temporary residence with renewal possibilities.

Asylum
For those facing serious threats such as war or political persecution.
Required Documents for Immigration to Lithuania
Common for all visas:
- Valid passport (6+ months remaining).
- Application form.
- Passport photos (Schengen format).
- Health insurance (€30,000+ coverage).
- Proof of funds.
- Police clearance.
Path-specific:
- Work: Job offer, employment contract.
- Study: Admission letter, academic transcripts.
- Start-up: Approved business plan, company registration.
- Investment: Proof of capital, company documents.
- Family: Marriage/birth certificates.
Lithuanian Visa Fees (2025)
Visa Type | Fee (€) |
---|---|
Schengen Visa (Type C) | 90 |
Type C (children 6–12) | 45 |
Type C (under 6) | Free |
✅ VFS service fees may apply depending on your country.
Best Cities for Immigrants in Lithuania
City | Best For | Highlights |
---|---|---|
Vilnius | Professionals, students | Economic hub, top universities, vibrant culture |
Kaunas | Students, families | Lower costs, tech & industrial jobs |
Klaipėda | Trade professionals | Port city, coastal lifestyle |
Šiauliai | Budget living | Quiet, affordable |
Panevėžys | Industrial jobs | Emerging manufacturing center |
Step-by-Step: Applying for a Lithuanian Visa
- Choose your pathway (work, study, start-up, investment, family)
- Check eligibility and gather required documents
- Translate documents officially if needed
- Secure job offer/admission/business approval (if applicable)
- Book an appointment at the Lithuanian embassy or VFS center
- Submit your application with all supporting documents
- Wait for processing (15–45 days)
- Enter Lithuania and register your address
- Renew residence permit until eligible for permanent residence
Final Thoughts
Lithuania combines fast visa processing, low living costs, and EU access, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a stable and affordable European base. Whether through work, study, business, or family reunification, a well-prepared application greatly increases your chances.
FAQs
Work visas and start-up visas often have the quickest processing times, around 15 days.
Yes, through family reunification, provided you meet income and housing requirements.
Not for initial visas, but required for permanent residence and citizenship.
Usually after 5 years of legal residence.
Yes, living costs are significantly lower than in Western Europe.