Lithuania Visa : A Complete Guide
Do I require a visa to visit Lithuania?
Lithuania is part of the Schengen Area, so whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. If you’re from an EU/EEA country or another Schengen member state, you don’t need a visa to visit Lithuania. Citizens from countries with a visa-free agreement with the Schengen Area, such as the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and New Zealand, can also visit without a visa for short stays.
If you are a non-EU/EEA national intending to work, study, or stay for more than 90 days, a visa will be required.
Types of Lithuania Visas
Lithuania provides various visa options based on the reason for your trip.
1. Schengen (Tourist) Visa : This is the most common visa for tourists. This visa permits a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day timeframe in Lithuania and other countries within the Schengen Zone.
2. Transit Visa : Required if you are passing through Lithuania en route to another destination. It applies to travelers from certain countries, depending on their nationality and travel route.
3. Work Visa : If you plan to work in Lithuania, you must apply for a work visa, which often requires a job offer from a Lithuanian employer. In most instances, your employer must submit a work permit application on your behalf.
4. Student Visa : Foreign students must apply for a student visa if they plan to study in Lithuania. For this visa, you must provide an acceptance letter from a recognized Lithuanian institution.
5. Family Visa : If you are a resident of Lithuania and wish to have your family join you, they must apply for a family reunification visa. The application process requires documentation proving your relationship.
Lithuania Visa Application Process
1. Book an Appointment : Schedule a visa appointment at the Lithuanian embassy or consulate in your country.
2. Complete the Application Form : You can download the visa application form from the Migration Department’s website or obtain it at the embassy or consulate.
3. Prepare Documents : Collect all required documents, including your passport, photos, travel insurance, flight itinerary, and proof of financial stability. Be sure to follow the embassy’s specific guidelines for document submission.
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4. Submit the Application : Submit the completed application and supporting documents at the embassy or consulate. You may need to attend an interview and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photographs).
Required Documents for Lithuania Visa
When applying for a Lithuania visa, you must provide the following :
– Visa Application Form : Completed and signed form available online or at the embassy.
– Your passport must remain valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay and have a minimum of two blank pages.
– Photo : A recent passport-sized photo that meets Schengen photo requirements.
– Travel Insurance : Coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies during your stay.
– Flight Itinerary : A detailed travel plan, including booked flights to and from Lithuania.
– Accommodation Proof : Documentation showing where you will stay during your visit.
– Financial Documents : Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay (bank statements, payslips, etc.).
– Invitation Letter : If visiting friends or family, include an invitation letter from the host in Lithuania.
– Cover Letter : A letter detailing the purpose of your trip and other relevant information.
Lithuania Visa Processing Time and Fees
– Processing Time : A Lithuania visa typically takes around 15 calendar days to process. Nevertheless, in some cases, the process could extend to 45 days.
– The regular cost for a Schengen visa is €90. A long-stay national visa costs €120. These fees must be paid in euros, and only credit card payments are accepted.
Lithuania Visa Duration
– A Schengen visa permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If you intend to extend your stay, you will need to apply for a national visa or a residence permit.
– National Visa : For stays longer than 90 days, such as work or study purposes, a national visa is required. This visa allows you to stay for a duration of up to 12 months.
What steps should you follow if your visa application is denied?
If your visa request is denied, you can challenge the decision within 14 days by submitting an appeal to the Vilnius Regional Administrative Court. The appeal documents must be translated into Lithuanian, and a stamp duty of around €30 is mandatory.
Entering Lithuania After Receiving a Visa
Upon arrival in Lithuania, you may need to report to the Lithuanian authorities at the foreign office to register your arrival, depending on the type of visa and your country of origin. It’s best to confirm with the Lithuanian embassy or consulate in advance.
Lithuania Visa Extension
A Lithuania visa can be prolonged for certain circumstances, including :
– Humanitarian reasons : If you need to stay longer due to personal or family emergencies.
– Force majeure refers to unexpected events or natural disasters that are beyond control.
– Late entry : If you were unable to arrive within the specified period.
In most cases, the extension fee is €30, though it may be waived in cases of humanitarian need or force majeure.
Difference Between Lithuania Schengen Visa and Long-Term Visa
– Schengen Visa : A short-term visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is generally intended for travel, business, or medical purposes.
– National Visa (Long-Term Visa) : Issued for stays longer than 90 days, such as for work or study. This visa is valid for up to one year and requires proof of a valid reason for your extended stay (e.g., a work contract or university acceptance letter).
Fun Facts About Lithuania
– Oldest European Language : Lithuanian is one of the oldest languages in Europe and has preserved many ancient linguistic features.
– Unique Scent : Lithuania has its own country-specific fragrance, which blends wildflowers, berries, and musky scents.
– Fast Internet : Lithuania is known for having some of the fastest internet in the world, widely available even in rural areas.
– Beautiful Nature : The country is almost entirely covered in forests, providing stunning green landscapes and a clean, natural environment.
In conclusion, Lithuania is an appealing destination for both short and long stays, whether for tourism, work, or studies. Understanding the visa requirements and application process will help ensure a smooth journey to this beautiful Baltic country.
