Do I really need to speak Lithuanian?

Yes, in most cases. Permanent-residence applicants generally must pass a state-language exam at A2 level and a test on the fundamentals of the Constitution, though some categories are exempt.

How much time abroad breaks the 5-year clock?

Continuity is broken by long absences - broadly, single absences of 6 months or more, or too much cumulative time away over the 5 years - with wider allowances for work, study or activity in your home country.

Can I work for any employer once I have it?

Yes. Permanent residence gives free access to the labour market - you can change jobs or be self-employed without applying for a new permit each time.

Long-stay visas (Type D)

Lithuanian Permanent Residence Permit (EU Long-Term Resident)

Long-term settlement status for foreigners who have lived legally in Lithuania for five years, giving near-equal rights and an open labour market.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

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Under review — check current rules

The precise allowed-absence limits and any exemptions from the language/Constitution exams are set by law and can change - verify against migracija.lt before publishing exact rules.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Lithuania government website before you apply.

On this page

Who it's for
Requirements
What you can do
How to apply
Documents
Frequently asked questions

Issued by: Migration Department under the Ministry of the Interior
Qualifying residence: 5 years of continuous legal residence in Lithuania on temporary permits
Card validity: 5 years, renewable
Exams: Lithuanian language (A2) and Constitution basics, unless exempt
Rights: Free access to the labour market; not tied to an employer or purpose

Who it's for

Non-EU/EEA nationals who have built up five years of continuous lawful residence in Lithuania on temporary residence permits and want secure, long-term settlement with open work rights.

Requirements

Five years of continuous legal residence in Lithuania on temporary permits (limited absences allowed)
Pass the Lithuanian state-language exam at A2 level (unless exempt)
Pass the exam on the basics of the Constitution (unless exempt)
Stable and regular means of subsistence
Valid passport and health insurance
No serious grounds for refusal (public-order / security)

What you can do

Live in Lithuania long-term with a permit renewed every five years
Work for any employer or be self-employed without a separate permit
Change jobs freely, unlike on a temporary work permit
Enjoy rights close to those of Lithuanian nationals in many areas
Become eligible, after further qualifying residence, to apply for citizenship

How to apply

Once the five-year residence condition is met, pass the required language and Constitution examinations (unless exempt).

File the permanent-residence application in MIGRIS at migracija.lt and attend in person for biometrics and documents at a Migration Department division.

The application is generally decided within about 45 days to 3 months (faster with the expedited fee), after which the permanent-residence card is issued.

Documents

Completed MIGRIS application
Valid passport
Evidence of 5 years' continuous legal residence
Certificates for the language (A2) and Constitution exams, or proof of exemption
Proof of stable means of subsistence
Proof of accommodation
Paid state fee

Frequently asked questions

Yes, in most cases. Permanent-residence applicants generally must pass a state-language exam at A2 level and a test on the fundamentals of the Constitution, though some categories are exempt.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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