Categories of Foreign Workers
1. EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals
- No work or residence permit required.
- Must register their residence with the Migration Department if staying longer than 90 days in 180 days.
- Employers must inform the Employment Service about the employment of an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen.
2. Non-EU Nationals (Third-Country Citizens)
These individuals must obtain a residence permit (with work authorization) before beginning employment unless exempt. There are several types of permits, depending on the job and worker profile.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring Third-Country Nationals
Step 1: Conduct a Labor Market Test (if required)
Before offering a job to a third-country national, the employer must:
- Register the vacancy with the Lithuanian Employment Service for at least 5 working days.
- This checks whether a Lithuanian or EU citizen is available for the role.
Exemptions from the labor market test include:
- Highly qualified workers (eligible for EU Blue Card)
- Jobs on the Shortage Occupation List
- Seasonal work under specific agreements
Step 2: Offer the Job
Once the labor market test is passed (or exempt), the employer can issue a binding job offer. Required job offer details include:
- Job title
- Salary and working hours
- Employment conditions
- Work location
The job offer must comply with Lithuania’s minimum wage and labor law standards.
Step 3: Worker Applies for a Residence Permit
A. Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) for Employment
Issued by the Migration Department based on the employer’s job offer. Valid up to 2 years, renewable.
B. EU Blue Card
For highly skilled non-EU workers with a higher education degree and a salary threshold (typically 1.5× average gross wage).
Application Process:
- Submitted at the Lithuanian embassy in the worker’s home country, or
- At the Migration Department (if the person is already legally in Lithuania)
Required Documents:
- Valid passport
- Employment contract or job offer
- Proof of qualifications
- Health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Criminal record certificate
Step 4: Decision and Arrival
- Processing time: 2 to 3 months, faster for certain high-demand roles
- If approved, the worker can enter Lithuania and collect the residence card
- Within 3 working days of starting employment, the employer must notify the Employment Service
Step 5: Registration and Onboarding
- Foreign workers must register with local authorities and provide biometric data.
- Employers must:
- Maintain employee records
- Comply with tax and social security obligations
- Ensure equal treatment and proper working conditions
Fast-Track and Simplified Procedures
Lithuania has bilateral agreements and simplified procedures for certain countries (e.g., Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova) and job sectors:
- Faster processing
- Partial exemption from labor market tests
- Short-term work permits (up to 1 year)
Employer Responsibilities and Compliance
Employers hiring foreign nationals must:
- Report employment to the Employment Service
- Provide contracts in both Lithuanian and a language understood by the employee
- Respect labor, tax, and migration laws
- Monitor permit expiry dates and renewals
Failure to comply can result in:
- Fines
- Ban on hiring foreign workers
- Criminal liability in severe cases
Conclusion
Hiring foreign workers in Lithuania is a strategic solution to talent shortages in various industries. The process is manageable with proper planning, accurate documentation, and respect for legal procedures. Employers are encouraged to work closely with certified immigration advisors or recruitment agencies, especially when hiring at scale.
By following this guide, Lithuanian companies can successfully integrate international talent while contributing to a more dynamic and competitive workforce.