Lithuania, a vibrant European Union member state, has introduced significant changes to its immigration rules and practices, effective from the beginning of 2025. These updates aim to streamline the immigration process, prioritize highly skilled professionals, and address issues related to illegal employment. Whether you are an employer, a foreign worker, or a highly qualified professional, understanding these changes is crucial for navigating Lithuania’s evolving immigration landscape.
In this article, we will delve into the key updates, including new quota numbers, stricter rules for changing employers, increased penalties for illegal work, and other important modifications. Let’s explore what these changes mean for you.
Lithuania Immigration Changes for 2025 – Key Updates
H2: New Quota Numbers for 2025
One of the most notable changes in Lithuania’s immigration policy for 2025 is the reduction in the quota for third-country nationals coming to work in the country. In 2024, Lithuania had a quota of 40,250, of which 36,663 were utilized. For 2025, the authorities have significantly reduced the total quota to 24,830.
Additionally, the divisions for different economic activities have been removed, simplifying the process but also making the quota more competitive. Employers and foreign workers are advised to plan well in advance to secure their spot within the reduced quota. The availability of the quota can be monitored in real-time through the official government portal.
This reduction reflects Lithuania’s focus on attracting highly skilled professionals while managing the influx of foreign workers more effectively.
Inclusion of Employers of Record
Starting in 2025, the quota system will also apply to temporary employment agreements, including those facilitated through Employers of Record (EOR). This change comes in response to high instances of illegal employment associated with such arrangements.
Employers of Record must now ensure compliance with Lithuania’s immigration laws, as failure to do so could result in severe penalties. This inclusion aims to create a more transparent and regulated employment environment for foreign workers.
Special Criteria for Highly Qualified Professionals
Lithuania is prioritizing the recruitment of highly qualified professionals (HQPs) to drive economic growth and innovation. To attract top talent, HQPs are exempt from the quota system and can obtain employment permits outside the standard limits.
To qualify as an HQP, individuals must meet specific salary thresholds:
Earn at least 1.5 times the national average monthly salary (€3,020.70), or
Earn 1.2 times the national average monthly salary (€2,416.56) if their position is classified as a Shortage Occupation.
This initiative underscores Lithuania’s commitment to fostering a knowledge-based economy by attracting skilled professionals in high-demand sectors.
Stricter Rules for Changing Employers
The rules for changing employers after obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) have become more stringent. Under the new regulations, employees must work for their initial employer for at least six months before applying to change employers. Previously, there was no minimum work period requirement.
It is crucial for employees not to terminate their employment with the initial employer before filing the change of employer application. Doing so could result in fines for the new employer and potential loss of the employee’s TRP. Once the application is filed, the employee can end their initial employment but must wait for the process to complete before starting with the new employer.
These changes aim to reduce job-hopping and ensure stability in the labor market.
Increased Penalties for Illegal Work
To combat illegal employment, Lithuania has significantly increased penalties for non-compliance. Legal entities found employing foreign workers illegally can now face fines ranging from three to 12 times the minimum monthly salary (€924), equating to €2,772–€11,088. This is a substantial increase from the previous range of €868–€2,896.
Additional penalties include:
Fines of €1,500–€5,000 per illegally working foreigner for the company’s head if found administratively liable.
A one-year restriction on employing foreign nationals.
Potential classification as an unreliable entity by other authorities, which could have broader implications beyond immigration.
These measures highlight Lithuania’s commitment to creating a fair and lawful labor market.
A1 Requirement for Postings to Lithuania
From 2025, individuals employed in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland who are temporarily posted to Lithuania must provide a certified copy of an A1 certificate. This document proves that the individual remains subject to the social security system of their home country.
The A1 certificate is required for both the Posted Worker Notification (PWN) by the sending entity and the LDU Notification by the hosting entity in Lithuania. It must also be submitted to the Migration Department (MD) for EU registration processes for postings exceeding 90 days or for Temporary Residence Permit applications for non-EU nationals.
This change ensures greater transparency and compliance with social security regulations.
Closure of VFS Centers for Employment Visas
Lithuania has closed several VFS Service Centers for visa applications related to employment purposes. Centers in the UAE, India, Jordan, Lebanon, Sri Lanka, and Nepal will no longer accept such applications.
Citizens of these countries must now apply for visas in other countries where external service providers accept applications for nationals without local representation. This applies to the following purposes:
Employment in highly qualified positions.
Intra-company transfers.
Employment as lecturers or researchers under contracts with scientific or educational institutions.
Family reunification.
Enrollment in approved study programs at Lithuanian higher education institutions.
Relocation under major investor initiatives or collective relocation per the Investment Law.
This change may require applicants to plan their visa applications more carefully and consider alternative locations for submission.
Conclusion
Lithuania’s immigration changes for 2025 reflect a strategic shift toward attracting highly skilled professionals, reducing illegal employment, and ensuring compliance with labor and social security regulations. Employers and foreign workers must stay informed about these updates to navigate the new requirements effectively.
By understanding the reduced quota, stricter employer change rules, increased penalties, and other modifications, stakeholders can better prepare for the evolving immigration landscape in Lithuania. Whether you are an employer seeking to hire foreign talent or a professional considering Lithuania as your next destination, these changes underscore the importance of careful planning and adherence to the new regulations.
By staying updated on Lithuania’s immigration policies, you can ensure a smooth and compliant transition into the country’s dynamic and growing economy.
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