Lithuania has introduced significant amendments to its temporary residence permit application procedures, effective November 1, impacting various foreign nationals, particularly Indian workers and students pursuing undergraduate degrees. These revised regulations are designed to streamline the application process but inadvertently create new obstacles for certain groups seeking to live and work or study in the Baltic nation.
New Restrictions on In-Country Applications
Under the updated rules from Lithuania’s Migration Department, foreign nationals already present in the country can now only submit applications for work-based or bachelor’s degree-based temporary residence permits if they meet specific criteria. Applicants must possess one of the following:
- A valid Lithuanian temporary residence permit.
- A national visa issued by Lithuania.
- A residence permit issued by another European Union or Schengen country.
Individuals legally staying in Lithuania under a visa-free regime are also eligible to apply from within the country. However, a key change prohibits those entering Lithuania with a Schengen visa (whether issued by Lithuania or another Schengen country) or a national visa from a different country from submitting these applications directly to the Migration Department while in Lithuania.
Challenges for Indian Nationals and Employers
Indian nationals are among five groups identified as facing additional difficulties due to these revised regulations. According to an analysis by Deloitte Lithuania, citizens from India, Ghana, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, and Mongolia typically lack an established overseas application channel for standard Lithuanian work-based temporary residence permits. This means that for prospective employees from these countries, securing an eligible qualifying visa or residence permit before planning employment in Lithuania becomes even more critical.
The changes also place increased responsibility on Lithuanian employers. Companies must now meticulously assess candidates' immigration status and application eligibility prior to finalizing recruitment and relocation arrangements, ensuring compliance with the new, stricter entry requirements.
Exemptions for Highly Skilled Workers and Renewals
It is important to note that these tightened rules do not apply to all categories of foreign workers. Highly qualified foreign workers, including those eligible for the European Union Blue Card, remain exempt. Their applications will continue to be processed through existing procedures while they are legally present in Lithuania. Furthermore, the process for renewing or changing an existing temporary residence permit remains unaffected, provided all applicable conditions are met.