Residence Permit (TLP/LTI)

What it is

A residence permit is an official document that allows a foreign national to live legally in Lithuania. There are two main types:

• Temporary Residence Permit (TLP / laikinas leidimas gyventi) — valid for a fixed period (commonly 1–2 years) and must be renewed.
• Permanent Residence Permit (LTI / nuolatinis leidimas gyventi) — valid indefinitely and is usually available after several years of legal residence.

Who it is for

In general, Lithuanian law allows third-country nationals (people from outside the European Union) to apply for a residence permit on several grounds, including:

• Employment (you have a job offer or work contract in Lithuania)
• Family reunification (joining a close family member who already lives here legally)
• Studies at a recognised Lithuanian institution
• Business or investment activity
• Humanitarian grounds or international protection

EU and EEA citizens and their family members have separate, simpler registration procedures and do not typically need a residence permit.

How to apply

Most applications are submitted through MIGRIS, the Migration Department's online self-service portal at migris.lt. You can also apply in person at a Migration Department office.

You typically need to:

1. Create or log in to your MIGRIS account.
2. Choose the correct application type and fill in the form.
3. Attach supporting documents (passport, proof of grounds — e.g. employment contract, enrollment letter, family ties).
4. Pay the state fee (the current amount is listed on the Migration Department website).
5. Attend an in-person appointment to provide biometric data (fingerprints, photo).

Processing times vary. The Migration Department website publishes current estimates.

Renewal

Temporary residence permit (TLP): submit your renewal application through MIGRIS no earlier than 4 months and no later than 2 months before your permit expires — that 2-month deadline is set by the Migration Department, and missing it can leave a gap in your legal status. Start as early as the window allows.

Permanent residence permit (LTI): the right of permanent residence does not expire, but the permit card is valid for 5 years and must be replaced through MIGRIS before it runs out (a state fee applies — currently around €45 under the general procedure). You keep your permanent-resident status even if the card expires, but an expired card causes real problems with employers, banks and travel — so start the replacement a few months ahead. See the official page: Change of a permanent residence permit.

Always check the current deadlines and fees on the Migration Department website — they can change.

What to do next

• Visit the Migration Department website (migracija.lrv.lt/en) for official requirements and up-to-date fees.
• Use MIGRIS to start or track your application.
• If you are unsure which category applies to you, a legal aid centre or migration assistance organisation can help you understand your options before you apply.

Where to get help

The Migration Department has offices in major Lithuanian cities. Free or low-cost legal advice on migration matters is also available from NGOs, municipal social services, and international organisations such as IOM Lithuania.