Permanent residence in Lithuania allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the country indefinitely. It grants nearly the same rights as Lithuanian citizens, with the exception of voting and holding certain public offices. Obtaining this status means securing long-term stability and becoming part of the European Union’s social and economic space.
Lithuania has become an attractive destination for investors, professionals, and families who wish to build a secure future in Europe. The country offers a high standard of living, modern infrastructure, and a transparent legal environment that welcomes long-term residents. Reflecting this appeal, Lithuania recorded a net international migration rate of 8 in 2024, showing a positive trend of more people choosing to move to and stay in the country.
This guide explains in detail how to qualify, apply, and maintain permanent residence status in Lithuania under the latest 2026 regulations.
Who Can Apply for Permanent Residence in Lithuania
The eligibility to apply for permanent residence in Lithuania is primarily based on demonstrating a strong and continuous connection to the country, through legal stay, business activity, family ties or professional engagement.
Applicants typically fall into one of the following categories:
- Non-EU citizens who have legally resided in Lithuania on a valid temporary residence permit for at least five consecutive years.
- Citizens of EU/EEA states and their family members who have lived legally and continuously in Lithuania for the same period.
- Persons who have established and actively manage a Lithuanian business, and contribute economically through entrepreneurship.
- Family members of Lithuanian citizens or residents (for example spouse or dependent children).
- Specialists, researchers and professionals working in sectors prioritized by the Lithuanian government or in companies registered in Lithuania.
Each applicant must meet specific conditions. For example, the residence should not have significant interruptions, the stay must be legal, and the applicant should show ties to Lithuania (such as residence, business operation or family connection). It is critical to consider which category fits your situation before proceeding.
Lithuania Permanent Residence Requirements (2026 Update)
Obtaining permanent residence in Lithuania requires meeting several legal, financial and integration criteria. These requirements ensure that the resident is stable, integrated and capable of fulfilling obligations as a long-term resident.
Key requirements include:
- Continuous legal residence in Lithuania for at least five years under a temporary residence permit. Absences from the country must not break the continuity according to rules set by the Lithuanian Migration Department.
- Stable income demonstrating financial self-sufficiency for the applicant and any dependents. Employment, business revenue or other legal income sources will be scrutinized.
- Valid accommodation in Lithuania, which may be demonstrated by owning property, a long-term lease, or a registered accommodation agreement.
- Health insurance coverage valid in Lithuania, or enrollment in the Lithuanian health insurance system.
- Clean criminal record: the applicant must provide certificates from Lithuanian authorities and, if applicable, from the country of origin or former residence covering the recent years.
- Proficiency in the Lithuanian language and knowledge of the Lithuanian Constitution or civic integration requirements, typically assessed through a standard exam.
- Valid identity and travel documents (passport, residence permit card) with up-to-date tax records and social contributions.
Meeting these requirements does not guarantee approval, but failing to do so is one of the most common reasons for rejection. Early preparation and documentation are key.
Step-by-Step Process: How to Get Permanent Residence in Lithuania
Before beginning this process, it is helpful to think of it as a sequence of well‐defined steps – each requires proper preparation, documentation and timing. Below is how applicants should proceed.
Step 1: Verify Eligibility and Prepare Documentation
Begin by confirming that you meet the five-year residence requirement and the legal conditions of your current temporary residence permit. During this phase you should collect all required documentation:
- Passport and current residence permit card.
- Proof of legal residence for the five years (entry/exit records, permit renewals).
- Income statements and tax records for the required period.
- Accommodation proof (ownership, lease, registration).
- Health insurance policy or confirmation of enrollment.
- Certificate of clean criminal record from Lithuania and any prior country of residence.
- Certificate of Lithuanian language competence and civic integration (if required).
Ensure all documents are translated into Lithuanian (if required) and certified according to Lithuanian administrative standards.
Step 2: Submit the Application to the Migration Department
Once your documentation is in order, you must submit the application to the Lithuanian Migration Department. This can be done in person at a regional office or via their online platform, such as the MIGRIS system. At this stage you will:
- Fill in the official application form for a permanent residence permit.
- Upload or present all supporting documents.
- Pay the required state fee.¿
- Provide biometric data if the process requires it (photo, fingerprints).
It is advisable to check with the Migration Department for any updates or region-specific requirements.
Step 3: Wait for the Review Process
The review of your application involves verification of all the submitted documents, assessment of your residence history, income, accommodation and integration into Lithuanian society. The authority may request further information or clarification.
The processing time varies depending on complexity, but applicants should expect several months. During this time your temporary residence permit should remain valid and you should avoid prolonged absences from Lithuania.
Step 4: Receive and Activate the Permanent Residence Permit
If your application is approved, you will be notified and invited to collect your permanent residence card. This document confirms your status and legally allows you to reside and work in Lithuania indefinitely.
You should register your new address if required, and ensure you update any other legal records, such as tax residency or social contributions.
Rights and Benefits of Permanent Residency in Lithuania
Becoming a permanent resident in Lithuania unlocks many rights and benefits, elevating your status from a temporary permit holder to a long-term resident integrated into the country’s legal framework.
Some of the main advantages include:
- The right to live in Lithuania without any time-limit tied to your permit.
- The ability to work in Lithuania and to establish a business without extra employment permits.
- Access to public healthcare and education systems under the same conditions as Lithuanian citizens.
- Eligibility to participate in social security and pension schemes once applicable.
- Freedom of travel within the Schengen Area, giving enhanced mobility across many European countries.
- Family reunification rights: your spouse, children and dependents may apply for residence on the basis of your status.
- A clearer pathway to Lithuanian citizenship after additional residence and integration requirements are satisfied.
By holding permanent residence, you gain stability, predictability and full participation in the Lithuanian economy and society.
Renewal and Validity of the Permanent Residence Permit
Although the status of permanent residence is, by definition, indefinite, the physical residence card must be renewed periodically. The renewal ensures your details remain current and that you continue fulfilling the obligations of a resident.
Key points:
- The residence card is typically valid for five to ten years (varies by region) and must be renewed before expiry.
- Renewal involves submitting updated identity proof, residence address, and paying a renewal fee.
- To maintain status you must keep your primary residence in Lithuania and avoid long absences. If you leave Lithuania for an extended period without valid reason, you may risk losing your status.
- You must remain compliant with tax obligations, social contributions, and avoid criminal issues. Non-compliance can lead to revocation of the permit.
- It is recommended to keep copies of all documentation, stay informed of legal changes and update your records when moving address or changing employment.
Common Reasons for Rejection and How to Avoid Them
Even with meeting the basic criteria, many applications are refused for foreseeable reasons. Understanding these can help you avoid pitfalls. Common causes of refusal include:
- Incomplete or missing documentation (for example no translation, unsigned forms, missing income proof).
- Gaps or interruptions in legal residence: if you were absent from Lithuania for long periods or held invalid permits.
- Insufficient income: your earnings or business activity do not clearly demonstrate financial self-sufficiency.
- Failure to pass the language or civic integration exam, or equivalently lacking proof of integration into Lithuanian society.
- Criminal record issues, tax arrears, or legal violations in Lithuania.
- Unclear or unstable accommodation arrangements (e.g., unregistered lease, frequent changes).
To avoid rejection, plan ahead, maintain up-to-date documents, track your residence and absence records, engage with professional legal advisors if needed and ensure your business or employment status is stable and documented.
How Permanent Residence Differs from Lithuanian Citizenship
While both status categories provide long-term settlement options in Lithuania, there are important distinctions between holding permanent residence and acquiring Lithuanian citizenship.
| Criteria | Permanent Residence | Lithuanian Citizenship |
|---|---|---|
| Right to vote and be elected | No | Yes |
| Issuance of passport | No | Yes |
| Duration | Indefinite residence, subject to conditions | Lifetime membership |
| Dual nationality | Not directly applicable | Generally restricted under Lithuanian law |
| Language & integration | Standard exam required | Stricter and more comprehensive requirements |
Permanent residence is a strong and stable status for long-term life in Lithuania. Citizenship, on the other hand, carries full political and legal rights, but requires additional commitments and integration over time.
Can You Get Permanent Residence by Investment or Business?
Yes – one of the pathways to permanent residence in Lithuania involves business activity or investment, and the law recognises foreign nationals who contribute economically to the country. This pathway is particularly relevant for entrepreneurs and investors aiming for long-term settlement through company formation, business management and economic participation.
Applicants in this category must establish and legitimately manage a Lithuanian company, actively engage in its operations, comply fully with Lithuanian corporate and tax law, and maintain legal residence under a business-type residence permit for several years. The business must show genuine economic activity (such as hiring employees, generating revenue, paying taxes).
Lawhill supports clients looking to set up a company (UAB, MB, IĮ, VŠĮ) and simultaneously manage their immigration strategy towards permanent residence. Through proper planning, compliance and tailored legal support, Lawhill ensures that business owners and investors are well positioned to meet the requirements of this pathway.
Selecting the right business structure, maintaining accounting and tax compliance, and aligning your residence permit with your business activity are key to making this route successful.
Conclusion
Securing permanent residence in Lithuania is a significant milestone for anyone seeking long-term stability, mobility and economic participation in the European Union. The process is rigorous but straightforward when approached systematically: ensuring eligibility, gathering complete documentation, navigating the application process and maintaining compliance.
Lithuania offers a welcoming environment to professionals, families and investors who are ready to integrate and contribute. By investing time in preparation and choosing appropriate legal support from Lawhill, you position yourself to benefit from the advantages of life as a long-term resident. This is your pathway to building a sustainable future in Lithuania.
FAQs
How long do I need to live in Lithuania to apply for permanent residence?
You must reside in Lithuania legally and continuously for at least five years under a valid temporary residence permit.
Can I work freely once I receive permanent residence?
Yes. You are allowed to work, establish a business and engage in employment without needing separate work permits.
Can I lose permanent residence status?
Yes. Extended absence from Lithuania without valid reason, serious criminal or immigration violations, or misrepresentation during the application can lead to loss of status.
Can family members apply with me?
Yes. Your spouse, children and certain dependents can apply for residence under family reunification provisions based on your status.
Can permanent residence lead to citizenship?
Yes. After obtaining permanent residence and fulfilling additional requirements (such as further residence period, integration, and language proficiency), you may apply for Lithuanian citizenship.
