Can a Child Obtain Lithuanian Citizenship After the Age of 18?

This article answers the question: Can a child obtain Lithuanian citizenship after the age of 18, who is eligible, and how the application process works. Under the legal regulation previously in force and the long-standing administrative practice, it was considered that the issue of a child’s Lithuanian citizenship had to be resolved before the child reached the age of 18. If no application for Lithuanian citizenship was submitted before reaching adulthood, it was assumed that the right to Lithuanian citizenship had been lost. As a result, many children of Lithuanian descent who were born and lived abroad were no longer able to acquire or confirm Lithuanian citizenship after turning 18.

This naturally raises the question: Can a child obtain Lithuanian citizenship after the age of 18?

The answer — and the procedure — are explained below.

 

Current Legal Situation

The situation has now changed. Lithuanian law currently provides the possibility to apply for Lithuanian citizenship after the age of 18, if the issue of the child’s Lithuanian citizenship was not resolved earlier.

This means that an adult person whose at least one parent was a citizen of the Republic of Lithuania at the time of the person’s birth, and who acquired the citizenship of another state either at birth or before the age of 18 (not by birth), has the right to submit an application requesting to be recognized as a citizen of the Republic of Lithuania — even if this right was not exercised before reaching adulthood.

This provision is particularly relevant to the Lithuanian diaspora and to individuals born abroad whose parents are or were Lithuanian citizens, but who, due to living abroad, lack of information, or administrative obstacles, did not arrange Lithuanian citizenship documents for their child before the child turned 18. Today, such individuals may obtain Lithuanian citizenship after reaching adulthood and, if the legal requirements are met, may hold dual citizenship.

 

Lithuanian Citizenship After the Age of 18: Who Is Eligible and How to Apply?

Current legislation allows applications for Lithuanian citizenship even after the age of 18 if the issue of the child’s citizenship was not resolved before adulthood. Below we explain who this right applies to and how it can be exercised.

 

Who Is Eligible to Apply After the Age of 18?

Before reviewing the documents and procedure, let us return to the key question:

Can a child obtain Lithuanian citizenship after the age of 18?

If you meet the criteria, the answer is yes.

You are eligible to apply if:

• You were born between 11 March 1990 and 21 July 2008, and

• At the time of your birth, one or both of your parents were citizens of the Republic of Lithuania, and

• You acquired the citizenship of another country either at birth or before the age of 18 (not by birth).

In other words, this right applies to persons who:

• Were born during the above-mentioned period;

• Had at least one parent who was a Lithuanian citizen at the time of birth;

• Acquired another citizenship at birth or before the age of 18.

Important: this option applies only if the issue of Lithuanian citizenship was not examined or resolved before the age of 18.

 

Is Dual Citizenship Allowed in These Cases?

A common question is:

Can a child obtain Lithuanian citizenship after the age of 18 and keep dual citizenship?

Yes — an exception applies.

If you acquired Lithuanian citizenship by birth, and acquired another country’s citizenship by birth or before the age of 18 (not by birth), you are entitled to hold dual (multiple) citizenship for life.

 

You may retain dual citizenship for life if:

• Lithuanian citizenship was acquired by birth;

• Another citizenship was acquired by birth or before the age of 18 (not by birth).

This most commonly applies to children of Lithuanian descent born abroad — in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and other countries.

 

 

How to Submit the Application

The application must be submitted electronically via the MIGRIS system.

After submitting the application, you must:

• Appear within 4 months at the Migration Department or a Lithuanian consulate,
  
  or

• Have the documents submitted by an authorized representative in Lithuania.

If the original documents are not submitted within the prescribed time limit, the application is considered invalid.

 

Required Documents

To confirm eligibility to obtain Lithuanian citizenship after the age of 18, the following documents must be submitted:

• A valid passport;

• Documents proving the family relationship with the parents;

• Documents confirming that one or both parents were citizens of the Republic of Lithuania at the time of birth;

• Documents confirming the acquisition of another country’s citizenship at birth or before the age of 18 (not by birth), such as:

  • a foreign document stating that you have been a citizen of that country since birth, or

  • a foreign passport issued before the age of 18, or other equivalent evidence.

 

 

 

Translation and Legalization of Documents

All documents must be translated into Lithuanian, and the translation must be certified by a qualified translator.

Foreign documents must be legalized or certified with an Apostille, except for documents issued by Latvia, Estonia, Ukraine, Moldova, and in certain humanitarian situations.

 

Key Rules at a Glance

 

Final Summary

In summary, can a child obtain Lithuanian citizenship after the age of 18?

Yes — if the issue of the child’s citizenship was not resolved before the age of 18 and the statutory requirements are met.

If you were born into a Lithuanian family in Lithuania or abroad but your Lithuanian citizenship documents were not arranged during childhood, you may still apply for Lithuanian citizenship as an adult. This legal right exists to maintain ties with Lithuania and to protect the citizenship rights of children of the Lithuanian diaspora.

 

 

Need Assistance?

Would you like to find out whether Lithuanian citizenship after the age of 18 applies to you?

Contact us — we will evaluate your situation and assist with the application.

We help with:

• Assessing eligibility for Lithuanian citizenship;

• Collecting documents;

• Translations and Apostille;

• Completing the MIGRIS application;

• Submitting documents to the Migration Department.

Contact us — we will assess your case free of charge.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

Q1: Can a child obtain Lithuanian citizenship after the age of 18 if the application was not submitted earlier?

Yes. Lithuanian law allows you to apply after the age of 18 if your citizenship status was not resolved before adulthood and you meet the statutory requirements.

 

Q2: Does this mean I lost my right if my parents did not apply before I turned 18?

No. If the issue of your Lithuanian citizenship was not examined before you turned 18, you may still apply as an adult.

 

Q3: Is dual citizenship allowed in this situation?

Yes. If you acquired Lithuanian citizenship by birth and another citizenship by birth or before the age of 18, you may hold dual citizenship for life.

 

Q4: Do I need to travel to Lithuania to apply?

Not necessarily. You can submit the application online via MIGRIS and later appear at a Lithuanian consulate or authorize a representative in Lithuania.

 

Q5: What is MIGRIS?

MIGRIS is the official electronic system of the Lithuanian Migration Department used for submitting citizenship applications.

 

Q6: What if I am unsure whether I meet the criteria?

You can contact us for a free eligibility assessment. We will review your situation and advise you on the next steps.

 

 

Can You Keep Lithuanian Citizenship If You Get Another One?

Many Lithuanians who moved abroad after March 11, 1990 are now considering obtaining citizenship in another country – for example, the United Kingdom, the United States, or Australia. Naturally, the question arises: can you keep Lithuanian citizenship if you get another one? Is dual citizenship in Lithuania allowed?

The issue of Dual citizenship is especially important for those who wish to freely travel and work within the European Union, maintain a strong connection with Lithuania, and at the same time enjoy the rights and responsibilities in another country.

Lithuanian citizenship grants the right to live and work anywhere in the EU, access healthcare services, and pursue education opportunities. Therefore, it is understandable that Lithuanians living abroad wish to retain their Lithuanian citizenship.

 

 

When Can You Keep Lithuanian Citizenship After Getting Another One?

According to the Law on Citizenship of the Republic of Lithuania, dual citizenship is allowed only in specific cases. You can retain Lithuanian citizenship after acquiring another citizenship if:

• You, your parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents were citizens of Lithuania before June 15, 1940, and

• You or your ancestors left Lithuania before March 11, 1990 (between February 16, 1918 and March 11, 1990); or

• You or your ancestors were exiled from occupied Lithuania before March 11, 1990 (between June 15, 1940 and March 11, 1990).

In these cases, Lithuanian citizenship may be retained even after naturalization in another country.

 

 

Lithuanian Dual Citizenship: When Is It Allowed?

If you are wondering how to retain Lithuanian citizenship after getting another one, it’s important to know that, in general, dual citizenship in Lithuania is not permitted.

However, the exceptions listed above allow you to keep Lithuanian citizenship together with another – for example, that of the United Kingdom or the United States.

This is particularly relevant for Lithuanians who live abroad and want to obtain another citizenship without losing their Lithuanian identity.

Each case is assessed individually, as the right to retain Lithuanian citizenship depends on personal and historical circumstances.

 

Main conditions for dual citizenship:

• Lithuanian citizenship before June 15, 1940

• Departure from Lithuania before March 11, 1990 (February 16, 1918 – March 11, 1990), or

• Deportation (exile) from occupied Lithuania before March 11, 1990 (June 15, 1940 – March 11, 1990)

 

 

 

Documents Required to Retain Lithuanian Citizenship

Depending on your circumstances, the process of keeping Lithuanian citizenship after getting another one can be complex. It is crucial to gather all necessary documents proving your right to dual citizenship. To ensure you understand Can You Keep Lithuanian Citizenship If You Get Another One?, make sure all supporting documents are collected and verified.

In order to prove the right to Dual citizenship, you must provide documents confirming:

• Lithuanian citizenship before June 15, 1940

• Deportation or departure before March 11, 1990

• Family relationship with the person who held Lithuanian citizenship

• Any name changes (if applicable)

• Other records related to your or your family’s history

If you do not have these documents, they can often be found in Lithuanian archives.

We can assist you with this process – contact us at info@migration.lt for help.

 

 

Step-by-Step: How to Keep Lithuanian Citizenship After Naturalization

Following these steps will help you understand Can You Keep Lithuanian Citizenship If You Get Another One? in practice.

1. Collect all documents proving your right to dual citizenship.

2. Contact Lithuanian archives if any documents are missing.

3. Submit an application to the Migration Department for confirmation and a conclusion that dual citizenship is possible in your case.

4. Obtain the citizenship of another country.

5. Inform the Migration Department about acquiring another citizenship to ensure the retention of Lithuanian citizenship.

 

 

Practical Tips on Keeping Lithuanian Citizenship

Here are some practical recommendations that can help you retain Lithuanian citizenship after acquiring another one and avoid unnecessary delays:

• Start gathering documents early – archive searches can take several months.

• Collect as much information about your relatives as possible (names, birth dates, places).

• Prepare official translations and notarized copies in advance.

• Follow the official document submission procedure carefully.

 

 

FAQ: Can You Keep Lithuanian Citizenship If You Get Another One?

 

• Can all Lithuanians have dual citizenship?

Many people ask, Can You Keep Lithuanian Citizenship If You Get Another One? even if they have no ancestors who were deported.

No, dual citizenship is allowed only in exceptional cases – for deportees, their descendants, and those who left Lithuania before March 11, 1990.

 

• What if I don’t have my grandparents’ or great-grandparents’ documents?

You can request a document search in Lithuanian archives by providing available information such as name, surname, birth date, or place of residence.

We can help you with this – contact us at info@migration.lt

 

• Where should I apply to retain Lithuanian citizenship?

Submit your application to the Migration Department, including all necessary documents.

 

• Do I need to renounce my other citizenship to keep Lithuanian citizenship?

No, if you qualify for one of the exceptions in Lithuanian law, you can hold both citizenships simultaneously.

 

• How long does the process take?

The timeframe depends on how quickly you can collect all required documents. Generally, the process takes from a few months to one year.

 

• Can I get a free legal consultation about retaining Lithuanian citizenship?

Yes. If you wish to learn more about dual citizenship in Lithuania, retaining Lithuanian citizenship, or need help with document preparation and submission, contact us for a free consultation.

We provide full support — document searches in archives, translations, notarization, preparation of applications for the Migration Department, and legal representation.

We can also review your documents before official submission.

Contact us for a free consultation:

📧 Email: info@migration.lt

📞 Phone: +370 685 63053

 

Conclusion: Keeping Your Lithuanian Citizenship and Staying Connected to Lithuania

The issue of dual citizenship in Lithuania often raises many questions among Lithuanians living abroad. The key is to understand how to keep Lithuanian citizenship if you get another one and prepare all required documents in advance.

By submitting your application to the Migration Department, you can maintain your connection to Lithuania even after obtaining another citizenship.

Retaining Lithuanian citizenship offers real benefits — the freedom to live, work, and travel in the EU, the right to own property in Lithuania, and the opportunity to preserve your Lithuanian identity and cultural roots. If you are considering citizenship in another country, it is crucial to know Can You Keep Lithuanian Citizenship If You Get Another One? to protect your rights and connections to Lithuania.

If you are considering naturalizing elsewhere, make sure to know Can You Keep Lithuanian Citizenship If You Get Another One? — this will help you preserve your rights and Lithuanian heritage.

 

 

12 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Lithuanian Citizenship Restoration by Descent

If you are looking for answers to the 12 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Lithuanian Citizenship Restoration by Descent, you are in the right place. This article on the 12 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Lithuanian Citizenship Restoration by Descent will help you better understand the process, benefits, and steps involved. This comprehensive guide covers the essential information about restoring Lithuanian citizenship by descent, including eligibility criteria, required documents, dual citizenship rules, timelines, and legal support.

Restoring Lithuanian citizenship by descent offers many benefits for people with Lithuanian roots, including access to European Union rights and opportunities. Understanding the process of Lithuanian citizenship restoration (Reinstatement of Lithuanian citizenship) is key to successfully reclaiming your citizenship.

If you’re unsure where to begin, these 12 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Lithuanian Citizenship Restoration by Descent will give you a clear starting point.

1. Who is eligible for Lithuanian citizenship restoration by descent?

You may qualify if you can prove that your parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent was a Lithuanian citizen before June 15, 1940.
To be eligible for dual citizenship, you must also prove that you or your ancestor left Lithuania before March 11, 1990, or were forcibly removed due to war, occupation, or deportation.

2. Can I apply for Lithuanian citizenship restoration if my ancestor left Lithuania due to war or persecution?

Yes. As explained in these 12 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Lithuanian Citizenship Restoration by Descent, those whose ancestors left Lithuania due to war, the Holocaust, Soviet deportation, or political persecution are often eligible.

3. What documents are needed for Lithuanian citizenship restoration by descent?

To apply for Lithuanian citizenship restoration, you will need documents proving your ancestor’s Lithuanian citizenship, such as passports, ID cards, military documents, or census records. Additionally, birth and marriage certificates are required to establish family links. For dual citizenship eligibility, documents confirming the date of departure or deportation are also necessary.

4. Do I need to speak Lithuanian or live in Lithuania to apply for citizenship restoration?

No, there are no language or residency requirements to apply for Lithuanian citizenship restoration by descent.

5. Can I keep my current citizenship when restoring Lithuanian citizenship?

In most cases, yes. Lithuania allows dual citizenship when restoring citizenship lost due to occupation-related reasons.
To qualify, you must prove that your ancestor held Lithuanian citizenship before June 15, 1940 and left Lithuania before March 11, 1990, or was deported during the Nazi or Soviet occupation.

6. How long does the Lithuanian citizenship restoration process take?

The timeframes discussed in these 12 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Lithuanian Citizenship Restoration by Descent are based on typical cases and may vary. The application process usually takes between 6 and 12 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the availability of documents.

7. What if I don’t have original Lithuanian documents?

If you lack original documents, you can request help from Lithuanian or related archives.
Our team at Migration Law Center can help you with the archival search, document analysis, and evidence collection if needed.

8. What if my ancestor’s name was changed or spelled differently?

Name changes or different spellings due to immigration or language differences (e.g., Yiddish, Hebrew, Cyrillic) are common. Submit supporting documents explaining these changes when applying for citizenship restoration.

9. Can I apply for Lithuanian citizenship restoration from abroad?

You can apply from abroad through the Lithuanian embassy or consulate in your country.
Applications must be submitted via Lithuania’s online system Migris, and original documents are later presented in person during an appointment at the Migration Department or consulate.
You can complete the process yourself or authorize a legal representative to act on your behalf.

10. Should I hire a lawyer for Lithuanian citizenship restoration?

You can apply on your own, but legal support is often helpful — especially in cases with missing records, complex family histories, or if you’re seeking dual citizenship. Lawyers experienced in Lithuanian citizenship restoration by descent can provide valuable guidance.
At Migration Law Center, we guide clients through every step, including document preparation, translation, and legal representation.

Many of the 12 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Lithuanian Citizenship Restoration by Descent involve legal complexities where professional assistance is useful.

11. How much does it cost to restore Lithuanian citizenship?

The official government fee (state fee) for submitting the citizenship restoration application is €120.
If you choose to work with legal professionals, service fees vary depending on the complexity of the case, the documents involved, and the level of support you need.
It’s important to choose experienced professionals who can handle archive research, translations, and legal submissions to ensure a smooth process.

12. Can Lithuanian citizenship be passed on to children after restoration?

Yes. If you restore Lithuanian citizenship, your children born after you officially become a Lithuanian citizen may acquire citizenship by birth. Citizenship is not automatically passed to children born before your restoration.

Following this 12 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Lithuanian Citizenship Restoration by Descent guide will help you understand the process and requirements. If you need assistance, legal experts in Lithuanian citizenship restoration can support you every step of the way.

Need help?
Contact our team at Migration Law Center for professional assistance with restoring Lithuanian citizenship. We work with clients from the US, Israel, South Africa, and beyond — making the process clear and efficient.

 

How to Restore Lithuanian Citizenship for Lithuanian Jews in Israel?

This guide explains how to restore Lithuanian citizenship for Lithuanian Jews in Israel, covering eligibility, documents, and the application process. Restoring Lithuanian citizenship (Reinstatement Lithuanian citizenship) offers a unique opportunity for descendants of Lithuanian Jews living in Israel to reconnect with their heritage and gain access to the benefits of European Union citizenship. Many Litvak families were forced to leave Lithuania before 1990 due to war, persecution, or deportation. Understanding how to restore Lithuanian citizenship for Lithuanian Jews in Israel is the first step toward reclaiming your heritage and rights. This guide explains the legal requirements, necessary documents, and step-by-step process to help you successfully restore your Lithuanian citizenship and reclaim your family’s legacy.

Learning how to restore Lithuanian citizenship for Lithuanian Jews in Israel can give your family access to European rights and reconnect you with your historical roots.

Who Is Eligible to Restore Lithuanian Citizenship?

If you want to learn how to restore Lithuanian citizenship for Lithuanian Jews in Israel, it is important to know the eligibility criteria.

You may be eligible to restore Lithuanian citizenship if:

• You yourself were a Lithuanian citizen before June 15, 1940, or
• Your parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent was a Lithuanian citizen before that date, and
• Either you or your ancestor left Lithuania before March 11, 1990
• Or was forcibly removed from Lithuania due to political persecution, war, deportation, or the Holocaust (e.g., sent to concentration camps, Siberian exile, or other forced displacement).

This applies to many Lithuanian Jews (Litvaks) whose families fled or were deported during WWII or Soviet occupation.

What Is “Litvak” and Why It Matters for Restoring Lithuanian Citizenship

The term Litvak refers to Jews of Lithuanian origin — a rich heritage rooted in Vilnius, Kaunas, and surrounding regions.
The Lithuanian government recognizes the historical connection of Litvaks and enables them to restore (or reinstate) Lithuanian citizenship through ancestry.

 

Required Documents to Restore Lithuanian Citizenship

If you’re preparing to apply, you’ll need to understand how to restore Lithuanian citizenship for Lithuanian Jews in Israel, including gathering historical documents and personal records.

To successfully restore Lithuanian citizenship, you will need:

• Proof your ancestor was a Lithuanian citizen (passport, ID, military record, census data, etc.)
• Your own birth certificate and those linking each generation
• Valid personal ID or passport
• Translations and apostille (depending on origin country)

Tip: Many Jewish records are available via Yad Vashem, JewishGen, or Lithuanian Central Archives.

Step-by-Step Guide to Restore Lithuanian Citizenship

This section details the essential steps in the process of how to restore Lithuanian citizenship for Lithuanian Jews in Israel, helping you navigate documentation and submission.

1. Gather documents – both ancestral and personal
2. Get certified translations and Apostille
3. Submit application to the Migration Department in Lithuania or via Lithuanian Embassy in Israel
4. Wait for review (usually 6–12 months)
5. Receive approval and official citizenship confirmation

Some families in Israel use legal assistance to speed up or simplify the process. Services specializing in Litvak claims can help with archives and official paperwork.

Dual Citizenship – Can You Restore Lithuanian Citizenship and Keep Israeli Citizenship?

Many wonder about how to restore Lithuanian citizenship for Lithuanian Jews in Israel while keeping their Israeli citizenship, and the good news is that Dual citizenship is allowed in most cases.

Lithuanian law allows dual citizenship for those restoring their citizenship lost under occupation (i.e., due to WWII, Holocaust, or Soviet annexation).
This applies to most Litvak descendants from Israel.

Key Conditions for Dual Lithuanian Citizenship for Lithuanian Jews in Israel

1. Lithuanian Citizenship Before June 15, 1940
   You or your parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent must have been a citizen of Lithuania before June 15, 1940.
2. Departure from Lithuania Before March 11, 1990
   You or your ancestor must have left Lithuania before March 11, 1990 — the date Lithuania restored its independence.
3. Forced Exile or Deportation During Occupation
   Alternatively, your ancestor may have been forcibly removed from Lithuania (e.g., deported to Siberia, sent to concentration camps, imprisoned, or exiled for political, ethnic, or religious reasons) during the Nazi or Soviet occupations.

Common Challenges When Restoring Lithuanian Citizenship and How to Overcome Them

• ❌ Missing documents? → Contact Lithuanian archives or use genealogical researchers
• ❌ Name variations? → Explain changes due to immigration or Hebrew/Yiddish translations
• ❌ Apostille delays (e.g., due to war or unrest)? → Include a written explanation in your application (especially relevant for current conditions in Israel)

Knowing how to restore Lithuanian citizenship for Lithuanian Jews in Israel includes understanding common challenges and preparing proper explanations for delays or missing documents.

Why It’s Worth Restoring Lithuanian Citizenship as a Litvak

Restoring Lithuanian citizenship offers more than just a legal status — it’s a powerful way to honor your roots as a Litvak and reconnect with a rich cultural heritage. For many descendants of Lithuanian Jews, citizenship is a symbolic and personal act that restores a piece of history lost through war, displacement, and persecution.

In practical terms, Lithuanian citizenship provides access to all the benefits of European Union membership, including the ability to live, work, study, and travel freely across 27 EU countries. This is especially valuable for younger generations seeking international opportunities in education or employment.

For Litvaks in Israel, restoring Lithuanian citizenship is also a legacy for future generations — an inheritance of identity, history, and global mobility. It’s both a tribute to the past and an investment in the future.

Real Stories – Litvak Families Who Restored Lithuanian Citizenship

These stories show that how to restore Lithuanian citizenship for Lithuanian Jews in Israel is not only possible, but often deeply meaningful for those reclaiming lost heritage.

Many Jewish families in Israel have successfully restored Lithuanian citizenship — both to reconnect with their roots and to access EU benefits (education, healthcare, travel freedom).
Some use the process as a way to honor their family’s memory, especially considering the Holocaust and Soviet deportations.

Need Help to Restore Lithuanian Citizenship? Legal Assistance for Israeli Applicants

At Migration Law Center, we assist individuals and families with how to restore Lithuanian citizenship for Lithuanian Jews in Israel, even in complex legal or historical situations.

If you’re unsure where to start or face document issues, consider professional help. At Migration Law Center (www.migration.lt), we specialize in restoring and reinstating Lithuanian citizenship for Litvak descendants living in Israel. Our expert team can assist you with complicated paperwork, archival research, translations, and legal procedures to make your citizenship application process smooth and successful.

 

Lithuanian Citizenship for Americans

Many Americans with Lithuanian roots are exploring this opportunity to reclaim their ancestral rights. This guide covers two key pathways — Reinstatement (for those with Lithuanian heritage before 1940) and Naturalization (long-term residency). Whether through ancestry or residence, we highlight criteria, timelines, and tips to simplify the process.

Understanding the process of Lithuanian citizenship for Americans helps avoid common mistakes and ensures a smoother application journey.

Reinstatement of Lithuanian Citizenship by Descen

If your family left Lithuania before March 11, 1990, and had citizenship before June 15, 1940, you may be eligible for Reinstatement of Lithuanian citizenship — even while retaining U.S. citizenship.

• Eligibility: Must prove ancestry through parents/grandparents/great-grandparents with Lithuanian citizenship prior to June 15, 1940.
• No renunciation required: Dual citizenship is allowed if your family was exiled or fled Lithuania before that 1990 date.
• Timeline: Lithuanian law specifies a decision within 6 months, though in practice expect 6–12 months.

Required Documents for Reinstatement of Lithuanian Citizenship

These are the required documents for Lithuanian citizenship for Americans applying through reinstatement.

A person shall submit the following documents:

• The application for reinstatement of citizenship of Lithuania completed in Lithuanian;
• The person’s identification document;
• The document certifying that the person was a citizen of Lithuania prior to 15 June 1940 or is a descendant of a person who was a citizen of Lithuania prior to 15 June 1940;
• A document evidencing the change of name or surname where such personal data have been changed;
• The document certifying that the person is not a citizen of another state, except of cases when the person may be simultaneously a citizen of another state;
• The documents certifying that at least one of the provisions specified in the Subparagraphs 2, 3 and 4 of the Article 7 of the Law of Republic of Lithuania is satisfied, if the person is a citizen of another state.

Where to Submit Documents for Reinstatement of Lithuanian Citizenship

The documents shall be submitted to:

• a diplomatic mission or a consular institution in a foreign state – Lithuanian diplomatic missions and Consular institutions;
• the Migration department in Lithuania – Migration department.

Naturalization Based on Residence in Lithuania

For U.S. citizens who have legally and permanently lived in Lithuania for at least 10 years, a naturalization path is available:

• Residency Requirement: Must reside continuously—no single leave beyond five months per year.
• Supporting Criteria: Proof of legal income, a clean criminal record, and passing an exam in basic Lithuanian language and knowledge of the Constitution.
• Spouse Exemption: If married to a Lithuanian citizen, the required residence drops to 7 years, or even 5 years for descendants of deportees or political prisoners.

Documentation includes permanent residency proof, exam results, and statutory declarations regarding dual citizenship. The process can span up to 12 months across Migration review, Commission approval, Presidential decree, and oath-taking.

Document Requirements for Naturalization of Lithuanian Citizenship

To apply for Lithuanian citizenship through naturalization, you must submit the following documents:

• A completed application form in Lithuanian;
• Valid passport;
• Proof of permanent residence in Lithuania;
• Documents confirming lawful permanent residence in Lithuania for at least 10 years;
• Proof of legal means of subsistence;
• Certificate of passing the examination on the basics of the Lithuanian language and the Constitution of Lithuania;
• Certificate confirming the absence of criminal convictions.

Meeting these document requirements is essential to ensure a smooth naturalization process.

Where to Submit Documents for Naturalization

The documents shall be submitted to:

• the Migration department in Lithuania – Migration department.

Dual Citizenship: Can You Keep Both?

Dual Lithuanian citizenship for Americans is permitted in many reinstatement cases, especially for those descended from exiles, Holocaust survivors, or anyone whose ancestors left Lithuania before March 11, 1990.

• Descent-based reinstatement: Dual nationality is automatically allowed if your ancestry qualifies.
• Naturalization: You may need to renounce other citizenships—unless a treaty or your spouse’s status provides an exception.
• Practical explanation: The difference often lies in whether you’re regaining citizenship by heritage or applying freshly via residence and integration.

Typical Timeline Comparison

Pathway	Estimated Timeline
Reinstatement	6–12 months
Naturalization	Up to 12 months (Migration department review + Commission + Presidential decree + oath)

Why Americans Are Reclaiming Lithuanian Citizenship?

There are many reasons why Lithuanian citizenship for Americans has become so appealing — from emotional ties to practical EU rights.

In recent years, more and more Americans of Lithuanian descent are choosing to reclaim their Lithuanian citizenship. For many, this is a way to reconnect with their family heritage, preserve cultural ties, and honor the legacy of their ancestors who emigrated from Lithuania decades ago. Beyond emotional and cultural reasons, Lithuanian citizenship also offers tangible benefits—such as the ability to live, work, and study freely across the European Union.

Benefits of Dual Lithuanian Citizenship for U.S. Citizens

For Americans, Lithuanian citizenship opens doors across Europe – this is one reason why Lithuanian citizenship for Americans continues to rise in popularity.

Dual citizenship can provide U.S. citizens with greater global mobility, access to affordable healthcare and education in the EU, and new opportunities for business and investment in Lithuania and other EU countries. It also means that your children and grandchildren may inherit the right to EU citizenship, expanding their opportunities across Europe.

How We Help You Through the Process?

Applying for Lithuanian citizenship — whether through reinstatement or dual citizenship—requires navigating legal documents, proving your ancestry, and ensuring full compliance with the law. Our experienced legal team assists clients every step of the way: from reviewing eligibility and gathering documentation, to submitting a well-prepared application to the Migration Department or Presidential Office. We offer personalized guidance to ensure a smooth, stress-free process.

Why Choose MIGRATION LAW CENTER?

• Specialized U.S.-Lithuania guidance
• Free eligibility assessment – Free Legal Assessment Form
• Comprehensive legal support from document collection through to final decision

Get Started Today

Whether you’re seeking dual citizenship or looking to reconnect with your Lithuanian roots, our team specializes in the legal process surrounding Lithuanian citizenship for Americans. We make the journey as simple and efficient as possible.

If you believe you may be eligible for Lithuanian citizenship, take the first step by contacting our legal team for a free legal assessment. We will review your case and provide clear guidance on your options.

📞 Phone: +370 685 63053
📩 Email: info@migration.lt
📝 Fill out our Free Legal Assessment Form

Let us help you navigate the process and submit a strong, well-prepared application.

Conclusion:

Whether through heritage or long-term residence, both citizenship routes are accessible to U.S. residents. With the right legal help, dual citizenship can be secured in under a year. Contact us to explore your path.

Name or Surname Change in the Lithuanian Population Register

Is it possible to change the spelling of your name or surname in the Lithuanian Population Register? Yes, it is possible if there is a valid reason and your personal data in another country—such as on your birth certificate or passport—is recorded differently than in the Lithuanian register. A common case is the desire to restore the original spelling, especially when the name or surname contains letters not found in the Lithuanian alphabet, such as “W” or “Q.”

When can you change your name or surname?

According to the Lithuanian Civil Status Acts Registration Law, changing your name or surname is allowed when:

• Your name or surname is recorded differently in documents of other countries;
• You are registered in the Lithuanian Population Register and are a Lithuanian citizen;
• Your name or surname was changed by a foreign authority and is supported by official documents;
• You want to restore the original historical or ethnic form;
• There is a spelling mistake in your name or surname;
• You want to unify the spelling with foreign documents for practical reasons (e.g., travel, international registration);
• Your name or surname is unusual or causes inconvenience, and you want a simpler or more international version.

Common case: Using the letter “W”

Persons with Dual citizenship or born and raised abroad often apply to change the spelling of their name or surname when it was adapted in the Lithuanian register according to Lithuanian language rules (e.g., changing “Warren” to “Varren”). If your birth certificate or passport shows the spelling with “W,” this spelling can be restored in the Lithuanian register.

Previously, the letter “W” was not allowed in official Lithuanian documents because it is not part of the Lithuanian alphabet. However, since 2021, legal amendments permit the use of certain foreign letters (e.g., W, Q, X) if justified by the person’s origin or foreign documents. This change allows restoring the original form of names and surnames in the Lithuanian register more accurately.

Required documents

To change the spelling of your name or surname, you will need to submit:

• An application for name/surname change;
• An identity document (Lithuanian passport or ID card);
• Foreign birth certificate (legalized or with Apostille);
• Foreign passport or other documents showing the desired spelling;
• Translations into Lithuanian (if documents are in another language);
• If your name or surname was officially changed abroad – a document confirming this change (e.g., court decision or civil status certificate).

Where to apply?

• Civil Registry Office (Civilinės metrikacijos skyrius);
• Migration Department (in some cases);
• Lithuanian embassy or consulate (if residing abroad).
• Online through the relevant electronic services, if available.

How long does the process take?

The processing time for a name or surname change depends on the specific situation, completeness of documents, and workload of the institutions. Typically, it takes from 1 to 3 months. If documents from abroad need legalization or translation, the process may take longer. In complex cases or if additional clarifications are required, it may take up to 6 months.

How much does it cost?

Official state fees for name or surname changes generally range from 10 to 50 euros, depending on the case. Additionally, costs may occur for translations or legal representation. Our team will provide you with a detailed fee quote tailored to your situation.

Our assistance

The Migration Law Center team helps clients worldwide with name or surname changes in the Lithuanian Population Register. We can assist you with:

• Consulting on the possibility to change your name/surname;
• Preparing applications and gathering necessary documents;
• Representing you before Lithuanian authorities;
• Ensuring a smooth process compliant with legal requirements;
• Providing official translations and document legalization if needed;
• Offering personalized support based on your specific situation and foreign country requirements.

Contact us

If you want to change your name or surname, please contact us by email at info@migration.lt or via the contact form on our website. We will reply and provide all necessary information and a quote.