History of Lithuanian Emigration

Lithuania has experienced four major waves of emigration. Emigration of Lithuanians was influenced by different causes, including economic, historical, and political factors.

Main Waves of Emigration from Lithuania

The major waves of emigration from Lithuania are the following:

1. Economic emigration at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century;
2. Emigration from Lithuania during the period 1920–1940;
3. Emigration of political refugees at the end of World War II (Displaced Persons);
4. Contemporary emigration from Lithuania.

Lithuanian Emigration to Canada

A significant wave of Lithuanian emigration to Canada occurred during the second and third periods.

During 1920–1940, emigration to Canada was mainly driven by economic reasons, although in some cases political and historical factors also played a role.

At the end of World War II, emigration was strongly influenced by historical and political circumstances, including the war, its consequences, and the occupation of Lithuania.

Displaced Persons and Post-War Migration 

Lithuanians who fled as political refugees were placed in DP (Displaced Persons) camps, primarily in Germany and Austria. These camps were administered by international organizations such as UNRRA and IRO, which were responsible for relief, protection, and resettlement.

From these camps, many Lithuanians emigrated to independent countries, including Canada. All such individuals were referred to as Displaced Persons.

Global Resettlement of Lithuanians (1948–1950)

Between 1948 and 1950, Lithuanians from DP camps dispersed across the world:

• Some remained in Europe (United Kingdom, Germany, Austria)
• A large number settled in the United States
• Others emigrated to Canada, Australia, and South America

Lithuanian Citizenship for Descendants in Canada

Lithuanians who emigrated to Canada typically acquired Canadian citizenship. Their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren also became Canadian citizens.

To maintain a legal connection with Lithuanian emigrants, Lithuania established the legal framework for restoring (reinstatement) Lithuanian citizenship. 

Individuals of Lithuanian descent residing in Canada have the opportunity to apply for reinstatement of Lithuanian citizenship. This process recognizes the ancestral ties and cultural heritage of those who can demonstrate their Lithuanian lineage. Eligible applicants must provide documentation supporting their descent, thereby facilitating the reconnection with their heritage and enabling them to participate fully in Lithuanian society. It is essential to adhere to the legal requirements set forth by Lithuanian authorities to ensure a smooth application process.

Eligibility for Restoration of Lithuanian Citizenship

A person may be eligible to restore (reinstate) Lithuanian citizenship (while retaining another citizenship) if:

• They held Lithuanian citizenship before June 15, 1940
• They departed from Lithuania before March 11, 1990

This right also extends to their descendants (children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren).

Legal Basis for Dual Citizenship

According to the Lithuanian Law on Citizenship, individuals who held Lithuanian citizenship before June 15, 1940, and their descendants, have an indefinite right to restore Lithuanian citizenship, regardless of their current place of residence.

Cases Where Dual Citizenship is Allowed

Article 7 of the Lithuanian Law on Citizenship provides that a person may hold Lithuanian citizenship and citizenship of another state (Dual citizenship) simultaneously if they:

• Departed from Lithuania before March 11, 1990, or
• Are a descendant of such a person

 To qualify for the restoration of Lithuanian citizenship, applicants must provide proof of their Lithuanian ancestry, demonstrating a direct lineage to a Lithuanian citizen. Additionally, individuals are required to present valid identification and any relevant documentation that supports their claim. It is essential to adhere to the legal procedures established by the Lithuanian government, including the submission of applications within designated timeframes. Finally, applicants should be prepared to fulfill any additional requirements set forth by the authorities during the review process.  

In order to restore Lithuanian citizenship without renouncing another citizenship, it is necessary to prove:

• Lithuanian citizenship before June 15, 1940
• Departure from Lithuania before March 11, 1990
• Additional circumstances (family relationship, name or surname changes, etc.)

Free Legal Assessment for Lithuanian Citizenship Eligibility

Free Legal Assessment: Lithuanian Citizenship Eligibility

The lawyers of MIGRATION LAW CENTER offer a free legal Assessment (analysis) of your options for obtaining Lithuanian citizenship. To receive a detailed analysis, please complete an application form by clicking this link – FORM.

Following a thorough legal analysis of your options that would allow to obtain Lithuanian citizenship, our lawyers will provide you with a written response (analytical results) regarding your options of obtaining Lithuanian citizenship and further requirements as well as procedure processes.