Lithuania Temporary Residence for Founders

Temporary residence permit for start-up founders

The permit is issued under the start-up ground of the Law on the Legal Status of Aliens to foreigners whose project has been confirmed in writing by the institution authorised by the Minister of the Economy and Innovation. It is issued for two years and may be renewed for three years after that institution confirms that the founder still meets the requirements. Within 120 days of the permit being issued, the holder must establish the startup and begin the activities named in its incorporation documents. The permit can be withdrawn if the startup is not set up or stops operating, and the holder must leave when the activity ends unless another residence ground applies.

Initial validity

2 years

Renewal

3 years, after renewed confirmation of the startup

Company deadline

120 days from the date the permit is issued

Government fee

Varies; confirm with the Migration Department

Family

Usually 2-year permits, later renewable for 3 years

Leads to

Permanent residence after 5 uninterrupted years

Requirements

• A valid confirmation letter from Innovation Agency Lithuania.
• Proof of means of subsistence for at least one year, at the monthly amount set for that year.
• Private health insurance where the founder is not covered through an employment contract.
• A commitment to declare a place of residence within one month of collecting the permit.
• Legalized or apostilled official documents and certified translations of papers not in Lithuanian or English.

How to apply

1. Register the application in MIGRIS, choosing legal activity and then the start-up category.
2. Book an appointment at a Migration Department office or a VFS centre and submit originals and biometrics at once.
3. Collect the permit card after a positive decision.
4. Establish the company within 120 days and declare the place of residence within one month.
5. Before the permit expires, obtain renewed confirmation and apply for the three-year renewal.