Blue Card in Lithuania

The BLUE CARD in Lithuania is an EU-wide work and residence permit designed to attract highly qualified specialists from third countries to the European Union labour market. Established under Council Directive 2009/50/EC, the Blue Card allows citizens of third countries to live and work in Lithuania and across the EU under streamlined conditions. It provides a faster and easier alternative to a standard work permit, ensuring legal access to the Lithuanian labour market for qualified professionals.

What Is the Blue Card in Lithuania?

Overview of the Blue Card in Lithuania

The Blue Card is an EU work and residence permit for highly qualified specialists. It allows legal employment and residence in Lithuania and other EU countries, providing mobility and professional recognition across the European Union.

  Eligibility Criteria for the Blue Card

Who Can Apply

To qualify for a Blue Card in Lithuania, the applicant must:

• Possess high professional qualifications;

• Have a valid employment contract with a Lithuanian employer;

• If the profession is on the List of Shortage Occupations with High Added Value, the applicant must be paid at least 1.2 times the average gross monthly wage;

• For professions not included in the shortage list, the applicant must be paid at least 1.5 times the average gross monthly wage.

Important Update: The previous requirement for a positive decision from the Employment Service confirming that the position meets labour market needs has been revoked.

Required Documents for a Blue Card

Essential Documentation

To apply for a Blue Card in Lithuania, the following documents are typically required:

1. Valid Passport – minimum 6 months validity.

2. Employment Contract or Job Offer – confirming position and salary.

3. Proof of Qualifications – diplomas, professional certificates, or work experience documentation.

4. CV / Resume – highlighting relevant work experience.

5. Health Insurance – covering the period of stay in Lithuania.

6. Photo – passport-style photograph.

Tip: Some documents may require translation into Lithuanian and certification (notarized or apostilled).

Application Process and Processing Time

Step-by-Step Process

1. Gather all required documents and ensure translations and certifications are complete.

2. Submit the Blue Card application either at the Migration Department of Lithuania or via an authorized service provider abroad (e.g., VFS Global).

3. The authorities review the application and all supporting documents before issuing the Blue Card.

Processing Time

• Standard processing time for a Blue Card in Lithuania is up to 2 months.

• If additional documents or clarifications are needed, processing may take longer.

Duration of the Blue Card

The Blue Card in Lithuania is generally issued for up to 3 years, depending on the employment contract duration.

Blue Card and Family Reunification

Residence Permits for Family Members

Family members of the Blue Card holder may accompany the principal applicant.

• They are granted Temporary Residence Permits in Lithuania, valid for the same duration as the principal holder’s Blue Card.

• This ensures family unity and legal residence rights while the main applicant works in Lithuania.

Benefits of the Blue Card

• Fast-track access to the Lithuanian labour market;

• Legal work and residence across EU member states;

• Higher wages compared to standard work permits;

• Eligibility for family reunification;

• Recognition as a highly qualified professional, improving future immigration prospects.

Contact MIGRATION LAW CENTER for Assistance

For guidance on obtaining a Blue Card in Lithuania, including eligibility assessment, required documents, and application procedures, contact MIGRATION LAW CENTER:

• Email: info@migration.lt

• Phone: +370 6 1861886

We assist highly qualified specialists and their families in navigating the Lithuanian immigration process efficiently and legally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Blue Card in Lithuania

Q1: Who can apply for a Blue Card in Lithuania?

A1: Highly qualified specialists from third countries with a valid employment contract in Lithuania and proof of professional qualifications can apply for the Blue Card.

Q2: Can family members join the applicant?

A2: Yes, spouses, minor children, and dependents may apply for Temporary Residence Permits to accompany the Blue Card holder for the same duration.

Q3: How long does it take to process a Blue Card?

A3: Standard processing usually takes up to 2 months, depending on document completeness. Complex cases or requests for additional documents may extend the timeline.

Q4: Can I apply from outside Lithuania?

A4: Yes, applicants can submit their Blue Card application through authorized service provider abroad (e.g., VFS Global) without traveling to Lithuania.

Q5: What is the minimum salary requirement for a Blue Card?

A5: Applicants must earn at least 1.2 times the average gross monthly wage for shortage occupations with high added value and 1.5 times the average gross monthly wage for other professions.

Q6: How long is the Blue Card valid?

A6: The Blue Card is generally valid for up to 3 years. If the employment contract is shorter, the Blue Card remains valid for 3 months after the contract ends.