Lithuania: in-country applications for work residence permits restricted
From 1 November 2026, foreign nationals present in Lithuania on a Schengen visa (issued by Lithuania or another country) or on another country’s national visa can no longer submit their first application for a temporary residence permit for work or bachelor’s-level studies from within Lithuania.
Only applicants who hold one of the following can apply directly to the Migration Department:
- a valid Lithuanian residence permit;
- a Lithuanian national visa;
- a residence permit of another EU or Schengen country;
- the right to visa-free stay.
All other applicants must submit their documents abroad through VFS Global. The rules for highly qualified workers remain unchanged.
What to consider? Employers should check the current basis of stay of employees who are planning to apply for a work residence permit in Lithuania. If an application cannot be submitted in the country, allow time for filing the documents abroad.