Residency in Lithuania: Investment & ImmigrationStartup and work visas in digital EU economy

Residence and citizenship in Lithuania

Why Lithuania is an efficient EU destination for long-term residence

Lithuania has become a preferred destination for individuals and families seeking structured, accessible, and transparent residence options within the European Union. Located in the Baltic region, Lithuania offers the advantages of EU and Schengen membership, modern infrastructure, and a business-friendly environment. Its residence and citizenship procedures are clearly regulated, making the country attractive to entrepreneurs, professionals, remote workers, and international students.

With one of the fastest-growing digital economies in Europe, Lithuania combines innovation with regulatory clarity. Residents gain full access to public healthcare, education, and intra-EU mobility, while maintaining a high quality of life in affordable and secure urban centers like Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda.

Residence permit options in Lithuania

Third-country nationals can apply for a range of residence permits in Lithuania based on the purpose of stay. Key categories include:

• Employment-based permit: Issued to individuals with a confirmed job offer from a Lithuanian employer. Certain highly qualified workers may receive fast-track permits.
• Startup visa: Available to founders of innovative businesses with scalable potential. Lithuania is known for its tech ecosystem and streamlined business registration process.
• Business and investment permit: For individuals who register a company in Lithuania and demonstrate real economic activity and job creation.
• Student visa: Granted to individuals enrolled in accredited Lithuanian universities or technical institutions.
• Family reunification permit: Available to spouses, children, and dependent relatives of Lithuanian residents or citizens.
• Blue Card: For highly skilled professionals earning at least 1.5x the average national wage, with simplified EU-wide mobility.

Most initial permits are granted for 1–2 years and are renewable. Applicants must prove income, accommodation, health insurance, and absence of criminal convictions. Many permits allow family members to accompany or join the primary applicant.

Permanent residence and long-term status

After five years of continuous legal residence in Lithuania, foreign nationals may apply for a Permanent Residence Permit. Requirements include:

• Uninterrupted residence with valid permits during the five-year period.
• Proof of stable income and registered housing.
• Basic proficiency in the Lithuanian language (A2 level or higher).
• No criminal record or serious administrative violations.

The permanent residence permit is issued for five years and renewable thereafter. It grants full access to employment, healthcare, and social services and eliminates the need for constant permit renewal. Lithuania also issues an EU Long-Term Residence Permit to eligible applicants, allowing mobility to other EU countries under certain conditions.

Naturalization and obtaining Lithuanian citizenship

Foreign nationals may apply for Lithuanian citizenship through naturalization after meeting the following conditions:

• At least five years of residence with a permanent residence permit (i.e., a minimum of 10 years in total).
• Basic knowledge of Lithuanian language, Constitution, and history.
• Demonstrated legal income, accommodation, and integration into society.
• Renunciation of previous nationality (Lithuania generally does not allow dual citizenship, with some exceptions).

Citizenship grants full rights, including visa-free travel to over 180 countries, the ability to live and work across the EU, and participation in local and national elections. The application process is handled by the Migration Department and usually takes 6–12 months to complete.

Advantages of residence and citizenship in Lithuania

Living in Lithuania provides a strategic combination of legal status, lifestyle, and economic opportunity. Key benefits include:

• EU and Schengen access: Travel freely across 26 European countries with a Lithuanian residence card or passport.
• Digital government: Lithuania is a global leader in e-governance, offering online residence renewals, tax filings, and digital signatures.
• Affordable living: Housing, food, and services are considerably cheaper than in Western European capitals.
• Public healthcare and education: Residents can access national health services and free or low-cost education.
• Supportive business environment: Ranked among the easiest EU countries to start and run a company, especially in IT and logistics.
• Security and quality of life: Low crime rates, clean cities, and a stable political environment contribute to a family-friendly lifestyle.

Comparison with other EU residence programs

Lithuania stands out for its balance of accessibility, efficiency, and EU benefits. Compared to other residence-by-investment programs, Lithuania offers:

• Lower cost entry: Company registration or employment is sufficient — no large capital investment or property purchase required.
• Fast processing: Standard residence permits are processed within 2–3 months, while Blue Cards and startup visas may be faster.
• Real integration: Language and civic knowledge are encouraged, resulting in stronger paths to long-term status and naturalization.
• No quotas: There are no limits on the number of permits issued per year, making it easier to plan your relocation.

For skilled professionals, students, digital entrepreneurs, and families seeking EU rights and future citizenship, Lithuania offers a realistic and strategic option.

Taxation and compliance

Lithuania has a fair and transparent tax system, suitable for both employees and business owners. Highlights include:

• Personal income tax: 20% flat rate for income under €90,000; 32% on excess income.
• Corporate tax: 15% standard rate; 5% for micro-enterprises meeting certain conditions.
• No wealth or inheritance tax: Lithuania does not impose wealth taxes or general inheritance duties.
• Double tax treaties: Signed with more than 50 countries to avoid taxation overlap for foreign income.

VelesClub Int. connects clients with English-speaking tax advisors, accountants, and legal consultants to ensure compliance and optimize fiscal planning for both individuals and companies.

Real estate and residence

While Lithuania does not currently offer a formal golden visa program, real estate may support residence applications by proving local ties and accommodation. Foreigners may purchase property in Lithuania without restrictions, including residential and commercial assets. Typical use cases include:

• Housing proof for business or employment residence permits.
• Supporting documents for family reunification or long-stay visas.
• Rental income opportunities or long-term capital appreciation.

VelesClub Int. provides real estate advisory services for clients relocating to Vilnius, Kaunas, or coastal towns like Klaipėda — with full legal due diligence and contract support.

How VelesClub Int. supports your move to Lithuania

VelesClub Int. offers full-spectrum assistance for residence and citizenship in Lithuania. Our services include:

• Consultation on residence permit options and eligibility.
• Document preparation, translation, and filing with migration authorities.
• Startup visa and company registration support with legal guidance.
• Relocation logistics — housing, banking, healthcare registration, and schooling support.
• Naturalization and citizenship application planning, including test preparation and procedural navigation.

With partners across Lithuania and deep expertise in cross-border mobility, we ensure a seamless transition and long-term legal success for each client.

Conclusion: Why Lithuania is a smart choice for EU residence and citizenship

Lithuania offers a stable, efficient, and transparent path to long-term residence and European citizenship. Its digital systems, welcoming legal environment, and cost-effective lifestyle make it particularly appealing for skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and globally mobile families. Whether you’re building a startup, relocating with children, or preparing for future EU citizenship, Lithuania provides a strong platform for legal integration and personal growth.

Contact VelesClub Int. to begin your Lithuanian residence journey — and take your first step toward a secure, structured future in the European Union.