Lithuania’s Visa Application Overhaul Takes Effect: What Businesses Need to Know

Effective July 1, 2024, Lithuania has introduced significant changes to its visa application process for foreigners. These changes could impact your business operations, especially if you rely on international talent. Here’s a breakdown of the new rules and why they matter for your company:

1. Centralized Application Process

Foreigners not currently in Lithuania must now apply for national visas exclusively through the external service provider chosen by the Migration Department, replacing the previous system where applications were handled by Lithuanian diplomatic missions or consular offices. This centralization aims to streamline the process and reduce administrative burdens.

2. Transition Period and Application Submission

From June 19 to July 1, 2024, the Migration Department will halt the Electronic Application Module (EPM). Applications submitted before June 19 but without a booked visit will be processed in a live queue. During the transition, urgent visa needs will be assessed individually.

3. New Application Platform: MIGRIS

Starting July 1, all national visa applications must be submitted through MIGRIS on migracija.lt. This unified platform is designed to simplify the application process and improve accessibility for applicants and employers.

4. Expanded Eligibility for National Visas

National visas can now be issued to:

• Students in exchange programs
• Foreign teachers, researchers, and their families
• Participants in joint governmental programs
• High-level athletes and coaches
• Accredited journalists
• Seafarers on Lithuanian-flagged ships
• Foreign businessmen with significant investments in Lithuania
• Seasonal workers with permits
• Temporarily posted employees from non-EU/EFTA countries
• Other long-term stay purposes under international agreements

5. Categories No Longer Eligible for National Visas

Starting July 1, national visas will not be issued to:

• Full-time students at Lithuanian higher education institutions
• Teachers and researchers under employment contracts
• Workers in professions on the missing professions list
• Employees with work permits from the Employment Service
• Citizens of Australia, UK, USA, New Zealand, South Korea, Canada, and Belarus who previously received simplified visas
• Applicants for residence permits or EU family member cards
• Individuals with approved residence permits or EU family member cards. These individuals must now apply for temporary residence permits, either in Lithuania or at VFS Global centers abroad.

Why These Changes Matter for Your Business

If your company has operations in Lithuania, these visa application changes could have a notable impact on your workload – and on foreign employees. Here are some of the reasons you should be excited about Lithuania’s visa process overhaul:

Streamlined Process: The newly centralized application process through MIGRIS and external service providers aims to reduce administrative overhead, allowing businesses to focus on growth and day-to-day operations, not government red tape.

Talent Acquisition and Retention: Understanding the new visa eligibility criteria helps businesses plan and manage international talent acquisition. The expanded categories for national visas make it easier to hire researchers, teachers, athletes, and other key professionals.

Compliance and Planning: Businesses must stay informed and compliant with the new regulations to avoid disruptions. The shift to requiring temporary residence permits for certain categories means companies must adapt their HR policies and ensure timely application submissions.

Global Reach: With VFS Global centers handling residence permit applications, businesses can now access a broader pool of international talent without the need for immediate travel to Lithuania.

These changes reflect Lithuania’s commitment to improving its immigration system, making it more efficient and accessible for businesses and foreign workers alike. Stay updated and, remember, VisaHQ is here to help you take advantage of these new opportunities for your company’s success.