This document summarizes the process and requirements for obtaining temporary residency and work permits in Lithuania for highly skilled foreign workers. A temporary blue card valid for 1 year can be issued if the worker has higher education, skills in demand, and a salary over double the national average (currently 11300 CNY or 1350 EUR). The application process takes around 2.5 months. Family members can accompany blue card holders. New legislation improving conditions for investors will take effect on January 1st, 2015.

1. Permission to live/work – for high skilled employees
Current legislation
A temporary residency and work permit (EU
Blue Card, valid 1 year) may be issued for a
highly skilled professional who has a higher
education degree, whose skills are in
shortage in Lithuanian labor market, and
who is contracted for more than double the
national average gross monthly salary
(currently 11300 CNY (1350 EUR).
Family members can accompany blue card
owner
Process takes around 2,5 months.
Government actively improves conditions to
investors. New legislation will be approved in
spring 2014 and come into effect on JAN 1st, 2015
• A temporary residency and work permit (EU Blue Card, valid 2
years) may be issued for a highly skilled professional who has a
higher education degree, whose skills are in shortage in
Lithuanian labor market, and who is employe at the salary level
that is two times more then national average gross monthly
salary (currently 11300 CNY ~1350 EUR). The complete
procedure for this foreigner may take up to 2.5 months.
• A temporary residency and work permit (EU Blue Card, valid 2
years) may be issued for a highly skilled professional who has a
higher education degree, whose skills are in shortage in
Lithuanian labor market, and who is contracted for more than
triple the national average gross monthly salary (currently 16 702
CNY (2000 EUR). The complete procedure for this foreigner may
take up to 15 days.
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2. Permission to live/work – permanent residence or
citizenship
After 5 years of residence in Lithuania, a third country national may apply for a
permanent resident permit.
After 10 years of residence in Lithuania, a third country national may apply for a
citizenship of the Republic of Lithuania.
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