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.

Lithuanian Citizenship for Americans

Securing Lithuanian citizenship from the U.S.? 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.

Reinstatement of Lithuanian Citizenship by Descent

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 Citizenshi

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?

• 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?

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

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 oath

Get Started Today

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.