Lithuania has revised its immigration and work visa system to allow more foreign skilled workers to enter the country from 2026, after labour market data from the Lithuanian Employment Service identified shortages in about 110 occupations across multiple sectors of the economy.
The changes include updated residence permit rules, a centralized labour quota system, and expanded pathways for family reunification, which in turn shows a shift in how the country manages labour migration.
DAAD Scholarship cites that the reforms are meant to address labour shortages across the Lithuanian economy and to simplify legal entry for foreign professionals. The updated system replaces earlier short-term and region-based arrangements with a single national structure governing work permits and residence status.
New Structure for Work and Residence Permits
Under the revised framework, most foreign nationals must obtain a temporary residence permit for employment before beginning work in Lithuania. Short-stay employment arrangements previously used in some sectors have been phased out. Applications are now handled through centralized digital systems managed by migration authorities.
Lithuania has also replaced separate sector-based labour quotas with one national labour quota. Employers across all industries now recruit foreign workers from a single allocation. Once the annual quota is reached, employers may continue hiring foreign workers if they meet higher wage requirements set by the government.
Salary thresholds apply to ensure compliance with labour standards. These thresholds vary depending on occupation and visa type, including higher requirements for EU Blue Card applicants.
Occupations Facing Labour Shortages
Labour market data collected by the Lithuanian Employment Service indicates that approximately 110 occupations are classified as shortage or high-demand roles for 2026. These shortages span multiple sectors rather than a limited group of professions.
Construction and skilled trades account for about 35 occupations. Industry and manufacturing represent around 40 occupations. Services and professional roles make up approximately 15 occupations, while agriculture, forestry, and seasonal sectors include about 10 occupations. The shortage list is reviewed annually based on vacancy levels and workforce trends.
Work Visa Categories and Application Process
Foreign nationals must first secure a job offer from a Lithuanian employer authorized to hire non-EU workers. The employer submits a work permit request to the relevant authorities. After approval, the applicant applies for a visa through a Lithuanian embassy or consulate.
Available visa options include the Skilled Worker Visa, EU Blue Card, Seasonal Work Visa, Startup Visa, and Intra-Company Transfer Visa. Required documents typically include a valid passport, employment contract, work permit approval, proof of qualifications, health insurance, and accommodation details. Biometric data submission is also required.
Family Reunification and Job Search Support
The revised system allows skilled workers to apply for residence permits for spouses and children after meeting income, housing, and insurance requirements. Family members may receive the right to work, depending on permit conditions.
Job vacancies suitable for foreign workers are published on platforms such as Lithuania’s Employment Service portal, IOM job listings, CVOnline.lt, EURES, LinkedIn, and EuroBrussels. Recruitment agencies including Alliance for Recruitment, Manpower Lithuania, Baltic Assist, and Indigroup also support international hiring.
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