Apr 6, 2023 | Blog, News
More than 60 members of the Seimas enlisted the bill, which proposes to hold a referendum regarding the following provision of the Constitution:
“Acquisition of the Republic of Lithuania’s citizenship transpires by birth and other legal means and procedures set by the constitutional law. The constitutional law also establishes the legal means and procedures for revoking the Republic of Lithuania’s citizenship.”
By doing so, the restriction on holding dual citizenship would be removed from the Constitution.
The explicit terms for acquiring and revoking dual citizenship, as well as the procedure and other matters, will be defined by the constitutional law.
During the 2019 presidential elections, a referendum was already held to broaden the options for having dual citizenship. However, the turnout was not sufficient in order to pass the change to the constitution even though a majority of voters were in favor of the change. An amendment to the Constitution with regards to citizenship is considered ratified if it was approved by more than half of the eligible voters who are registered in the voter list.
Why is this important to Lithuanians?
Those who emigrated after the reinstatement of sovereignty on March 11, 1990, at present, with some exemptions, are prohibited from having dual citizenship. The Constitutional Court has ruled that dual citizenship can be granted to those who left after 1990 only if the Constitution is amended by referendum.
Lithuania has a difficult history of emigration, and the wave of emigrants from the country after the restoration of its independence was the largest. This is due to the fact that after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Lithuanian economy was in an extremely disastrous state. Many people, after half a century of hardship under the blurring of Lithuanian identity by the Soviet Union occupation of Russia and the complete collapse of the economy after independence, were forced to leave the country in search of work and better quality of life with normal pay.
Most of them went to European countries – Germany, the UK and others. After working in the country for several years, many of them remained in it and naturalized, receiving citizenship in a new country. And now most of these Lithuanians do not have the opportunity to restore their citizenship.
If this time the Lithuanians successfully amend the Constitution, it will enable hundreds of thousands of Lithuanians to restore their Lithuanian citizenship, remaining a citizen of their new homeland. In particular, this will enable their children not to break the connection with the homeland of their ancestors.
We help many people to restore their Lithuanian citizenship (usually dual), but currently, due to legal limitations, we cannot offer this opportunity to those that left after 1990 or their children.
Mar 31, 2023 | Blog
At our law firm “De civitate” we not only help descendants of Lithuanian emigrants to restore Lithuanian citizenship by descent but also we specialize in helping individuals obtain a Lithuanian residence through investment. In this article, we share the story of two brothers from India who approached us with a desire to start a new business venture in Europe and bring their families with them.
Benefits of the Lithuanian residence through investment
There are numerous benefits to obtaining Lithuanian residence by investment (or RBI in short):
- fast processing time: The application process for Lithuanian residency through investment is typically completed within 3-4 months,
- low investment threshold: The minimum investment amount required for Lithuanian residency through investment is €14,000, which is, probably, the lowest in the EU,
- access to the European market. The EU market is one of the largest and most developed in the world, offering a wide range of business opportunities for investors,
- access to the Schengen Area: Lithuanian residency allows visa-free travel to 26 countries in the Schengen Area, making it an attractive option for frequent travelers,
- path to citizenship: After holding Lithuanian residency for ten years, investors are eligible to apply for Lithuanian citizenship and an EU passport,
- affordable cost of living: Lithuania has a relatively low cost of living compared to other European countries, making it an ideal location for investors seeking a high quality of life at an affordable cost.
Last year we were contacted by an Indian citizen living in Australia, who was interested to open a business in the EU and relocate there together with his brother and their families. We explained the general requirements and opportunities offered by the Lithuanian investor residence permit program, including the ability to apply for two permits with an investment of just €14,000 per applicant. As the brothers were interested in starting a business together, this option presented an excellent opportunity for them.
After discussing all the details we proceeded to sign a contract and start working on their case. To facilitate their business venture, we helped the brothers acquire a small existing company with a history but no operations. We then added the brothers as new shareholders of the company, allowing them to take control of its direction and focus on their new venture. This purchase of an existing company instead of forming a new one allows the new owners to apply for a national visa immediately after the investment is done.
However, we encountered some challenges in the process, including resistance from the bank to change information about the company’s shareholders. We had to find a new bank and open a new account, which we were ultimately able to do. As you know it might be more difficult to open a bank account in Europe than to open a company, however because of our experience and network in this area we were able to find a suitable bank and even facilitate all the processes remotely.
Throughout the process, the brothers remained in their home countries of India and Australia, while our lawyers and team in Lithuania handled the necessary paperwork and procedures. With the company ownership in order, we were able to proceed with the necessary documentation for the brothers and their families to obtain residence permits in Lithuania. After a little over six months of work because of unexpected obstacles with bank accounts, we successfully brought the brothers and their families to Europe.
Usually, the whole process takes between 3 to 6 months, however, it largely depends on the speed of the client.
Are you interested in obtaining residency in the European Union through investment? Our team of immigration lawyers specializes in helping clients navigate the complex process of obtaining EU Residency by Investment.
Overcoming Challenges for Successful EU Residency through investment
Overcoming challenges is an integral part of the process of obtaining EU residency through investment. In this particular case, our clients faced a very rigid approach by the bank, but due to our experience, we successfully solved the issue. Knowing the details of bank requirements and potential alternatives significantly sped up the process of finalizing legal paperwork and getting residence permits for the brothers.
It is also important to choose the right type of company to buy from, analyzing it according to various criteria – date of establishment, transactional history, bank it is working with and others.
If you are interested in pursuing a similar opportunity for investment-based residence in Europe, we can help. Our experienced team of immigration lawyers can provide guidance on the process and assist with any challenges or obstacles that may arise. Contact us today to learn more.
Jan 31, 2023 | Blog
Tracing your ancestry and discovering your roots can be a fulfilling and enlightening journey, particularly for those with Lithuanian heritage. If you’re looking to restore your Lithuanian citizenship or learn more about your family history, uncovering your ancestors in Lithuania can be both exciting and challenging. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of finding your ancestors in Lithuania. We’ll provide tips and advice for researching your family history, including where to find historical records, how to navigate government offices and archives, and how to handle any unique challenges that may arise. Whether you’re just starting your journey or are well on your way to restoring your Lithuanian citizenship, this article will provide you with the information you need to uncover your Lithuanian ancestors and discover your roots in Lithuania.
Talk with your grandparents
If you are a descendant of Lithuanian immigrants and are interested in restoring your Lithuanian citizenship, one of the best things you can do is to talk to your grandparents, if they are still alive. They may have valuable information about your family’s history and can provide you with important documents, such as birth certificates and marriage certificates.
If your grandparents are no longer living, you can still gather information about your Lithuanian ancestors by visiting their graves and noting the dates of their birth. This information can be used to help you trace your family history and establish your eligibility for Lithuanian citizenship.
What about genealogy websites?
Another way to gather information about your ancestors is by using genealogy websites.
Some of the most popular genealogy websites are:
These websites can provide valuable information such as date and place of birth, which can be used as grounds for restoring Lithuanian citizenship.
However, it is important to note that while these websites can be useful tools in researching your family history, they may not be accepted as official documentation by the Lithuanian government. It is recommended that you consult with legal professionals specializing in citizenship restoration to ensure that the information and documentation gathered from genealogy websites are sufficient for the application process.
Additionally, it is a good idea to verify and cross-reference the information from genealogy websites with official documents from archives.
But we want to warn you not to waste your time with offers to get a DNA test. Often it can be just a scam. But besides, it’s important to note that they are not considered official documentation for restoring Lithuanian citizenship. In order to be eligible for Lithuanian citizenship, you will need to provide official documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other forms of identification.
Go to the archives!
Gathering information about your grandparents is important in restoring your Lithuanian citizenship. One of the best places to start is by visiting archives in the places where your grandparents lived. These archives may contain important documents such as birth and marriage certificates, which can provide valuable information about your family’s history.
To find these archives, you may need to do some research on the specific locations where your grandparents lived. If your ancestors emigrated, you need to start with the local archives where they lived.
Once you have located the relevant archives, you can start searching for documents related to your grandparents. Be prepared to provide their full names, dates of birth, and any other information that may be helpful in locating the right documents. It can also be helpful to have copies of any other documents you already have, such as your grandparents’ naturalization papers or passports.
It is important to note that the process of searching for information about your grandparents in archives can take some time and may require persistence. But with effort and patience, you may be able to find the information you need to help establish your eligibility for Lithuanian citizenship.
Information to look for in the archives
Before you go to the archives, let’s decide what information you need to find. To find information about your ancestors in the archives, the following details should be looked for:
- Dates of birth
- Original names
- Place of life or place of birth in Lithuania
- Date of emigration from Lithuania
Additional information about life in Lithuania could also be useful but the above information would be sufficient to evaluate the chances of obtaining Lithuanian citizenship.
After you gathered some basic information, let’s turn to the Lithuanian archives!
Once you have the information about the date and place of birth of your ancestors, you can turn to Lithuanian, German, or Polish archives to find more information about them. However, the challenge here is that you will need to communicate with the archives in Lithuanian, German, or Polish. This can be difficult if you are not fluent in these languages. But don’t worry, our lawyers can help you with this process. There are multiple archives in Lithuania and we know which ones might have the documents that might useful to us. With the help of our legal team, you can navigate the archives and obtain the necessary documents to restore your Lithuanian citizenship.
Tracing your ancestry and restoring your Lithuanian citizenship can be a complex and time-consuming process. Without the right resources and guidance, it can take years to gather the necessary information and documents to apply for citizenship. However, there is a solution to this problem.
We specialize in helping descendants of Lithuanian emigrants navigate the process of restoring their Lithuanian citizenship. Our experienced team will work with you to gather the necessary information and documents, and guide you through the application process. We understand the importance of this process to you and we will do our best to make it as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Don’t waste years trying to figure it out on your own. Trust us to help you restore your Lithuanian citizenship quickly and efficiently. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you.
Nov 3, 2022 | Uncategorised, Blog
The Litvaks, or Lithuanian Jews, have descended from the Germanic group of Ashkenazi Jews. During the development of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, in the 14th century, they were granted political and economic privileges in order to attract their migration to Lithuania and to develop trade and crafts in large cities. This led to the growth of the Jewish community in Lithuania, which in its heyday accounted for about 10% of the total population of Lithuania.
The etymology of the word “Litvak”
The Slavic name for the Lithuanian state, Lithuania, is the source of the word “Litvak”. Lithuania in most of the Slavic languages is called Litva and the term Litvak simply evolved to mean Lithuanian Jew. Litvaks were Jews who immigrated to the Belarusian, Lithuanian, and Ukrainian parts of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania from Germany, the Czech Republic, and Poland.
From the initial wave of migrants from different European countries, a large Jewish community with its own customs, traditions and way of life gradually emerged. This community developed distinctive characteristics that are known historically as “Nusakh Liti” (Lithuanian way of life, way, manner). Based on these traits, Jews from Lithuania were referred to be “sheivet litvakes” (from Yiddish: “tribe of Litvaks”).
Common surnames and famous people
A common surname of many Litvak Jews was simply Litvak (or Litvakov). Also, some surnames originated from the names of the cities with large Jewish communities, like: Vilnius – Vilenski, or Kaunas – Kovner. Additionally, some surnames originated from the professions and crafts such as: butcher – Shochet, Glassblower – Glazer.
Bob Dylan is one of the most famous descendants of Litvaks
Among the famous Lithuanian Jews and their descendants were many scientists, writers, artists, political and religious leaders, as well as Nobel Prize winners. Everyone knows the names of Leonard Cohen – singer-songwriter, poet and novelist from Canada; Bob Dylan – one of the greatest songwriters of all time from the US or David Suchet from the UK– who plays the role of Hercule Poirot in the popular series based on the works of Agatha Christie.
The resettlement of Litvaks
During the 18th century, a growing number of Jews spread across the territory of Lithuania, where they became a significant force in developing the country’s economy, trade, and crafts, and which aided the expansion and development of both old and new cities and towns.
During that period the capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Vilnius, gradually replaced Brest as Litvaks’ spiritual center. Vilnius’ Jewish population expanded, together with the number of religious scholars living there. Jewish communities were given a considerable degree of political autonomy and had similar status to monks, burghers, and peasants in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth as a whole.
They had a right to reside among the Christians in their neighborhood and a separate code of laws “Jewish law” was used as the basis for their own self-government. The Jewish communities were allowed to form their autonomous national administration.
At the end of the 18th century (1792–1795), Lithuania was completely annexed by the Russian Empire. The loss of Lithuanian independence also adversely affected Litvak communities. The Russian Empire decided to restrict the migration of Jews and their settlements were limited only to some areas of Lithuania, Belarus, and Ukraine, the so-called “strip of settlement”.
This area, which had a high density of Jewish residents compared to other parts of the Russian empire (and many European countries), was sometimes known as “Yiddishland” (“Land of the Jews”).
Jewish community before the WW2
During the WW1 most of Lithuania’s territory turned into a battlefield between the Russian and German Empires. After Russia incited the war and civil war broke out, Vilnius was successively captured by Polish and Soviet-Russian forces numerous times in 1919–1920. Polish and Soviet armies alternately controlled Vilnius on several occasions, while the emerging Lithuanian Republic was also trying to establish control over its historical capital.
However, Lithuania’s success was short-lived and Vilnius was forcibly integrated into Poland in 1922. During this period of fighting between Germany, Russia, Poland and, eventually, Lithuania the Jewish community suffered.
The Lithuanian Jewish community, whose center was in Kaunas, the country’s temporary capital, and its numerous leaders actively participated in the creation, development, and armed defense of the Lithuanian state as well as in diplomatic efforts to have it recognized internationally. Jews made up more than 500 of the volunteers who fought for Lithuania’s freedom during this period.
The 1922 Constitution of the Republic of Lithuania included a clause stating that all people were treated equally in the eyes of the law. According to a separate provision titled “Rights of National Minorities,” minorities were given a certain degree of autonomy in managing matters related to their national culture, education, charity, and mutual aid, to the extent permitted by the law. To run their affairs, communities elected their representative bodies.
The so-called “honeymoon period”
The “honeymoon period” is referred to in the historiography of Lithuanian Jews as a short period of 1919–1922. Jews had ministers as well as representatives in the Lithuanian Parliament (Seimas). The Jewish Kahals (Jewish communities) received extensive privileges under the 1920 law to manage religious affairs, charitable work, social assistance and public education.
Jewish organizations were very successful in accommodating thousands of Jews who had fled Soviet Russia during the period of the civil war there. Lithuanian Jews helped many of them to settle, find work, and to establish a vast network of educational, medical, charitable, social assistance, and cultural organizations.
Unfortunately, the influence of Lithuanian democratic political forces was getting weaker while right-wing parties were growing stronger like in many other European countries at that time. The state’s recognition of Jewish national autonomy, which included all of its organs, was progressively reduced until it was abolished.
This turn towards nationalism also impacted how Jews were portrayed in Seimas and the use of Yiddish in government institutions. The Minister for Jewish Affairs left the government in 1924. The Jewish National Council was abolished. The Jewish communal Kahals were disbanded in March 1926. The rabbis were given control over civil registration duties.
Litvak community in numbers
- In 1923, a population census was conducted in Lithuania, according to which 2.03 million people lived in the country. Of these, 154 thousand people identified themselves as Jews. Litvaks lived in almost every town and many larger villages.
- By 1939, the number of Jews in Lithuania had reached its peak of 210,000 due to immigration and the natural growth of the population.
- From 91% to 95% of the Jewish community remaining at that time in the country (about 195 000 people) were killed during the Second World War. In terms of the share of the community killed during the Holocaust, this figure is the highest Jewish loss in any country in Europe.
Unfortunately, some Lithuanians influenced by Nazi propaganda also participated in these events. While, at the same time, other Lithuanians were risking their lives by hiding and saving the victims. 918 Lithuanians are recognized by Israel as Righteous Among the Nations. These were people that risked their lives during the Holocaust to save Jews from the Nazis. This is the highest number per capita in Eastern Europe and the second highest in the world after the Netherlands.
- Less than 25,000 Lithuanian Jews, were registered in the Soviet census of 1959 after the Shoah. The amount had decreased to 6,000 or less by 1993 mostly due to emigration to the USA and Israel. The community decreased further and as of 2011 had only about 3050 people.
Where do Litvaks live now?
The majority of Litvaks emigrated to the US, but ~15,000 decided to emigrate to South Africa once gold and diamonds were discovered there. Although they were frequently listed as “miners” when immigrating, they were mostly traders in items needed by miners.
Up to 75,000 Lithuanian Jews now live in South Africa. Many South African Litvaks during the last couple of decades migrated to other Anglophone countries (the US, Australia, Canada and the UK).
There were 576 South African-born Jews living in Australia according to the Australian census of 2001; during the next five years, that number had increased by 2% yearly and reached 637. After 2006 immigration to Australia from South Africa increased significantly and according to the 2016 Australian census 12,092 persons identified as South African Jews.
Dual Lithuanian citizenship for Litvaks
Many Litvaks living abroad have a right to restore the citizenship of their ancestors. In accordance with the Lithuanian Citizenship Law, the descendants of Lithuanian citizens before June 15, 1940, and who left the country before March 11, 1990, can restore Lithuanian citizenship without renouncing the main citizenship in their country of residence. This is an opportunity to obtain a Lithuanian (and hence the EU) passport.
Only single Lithuanian citizenship is available to those whose ancestors left for the countries of the former USSR. However, if they were deported then it is possible to claim dual Lithuanian citizenship, as well.
If your ancestors come from Lithuania, then you might be eligible for Lithuanian citizenship. Contact us and our managers and lawyers will explain to you in detail the process of obtaining second European citizenship.
Oct 23, 2022 | Blog, Why restore
Four waves of emigration from Lithuania have resulted in a rather impressive community of Lithuanian-Americans, whose size, according to some estimates, may be up to 1 million people.
While descendants of Lithuanian emigrants lead lives as full-fledged Americans, Brazilians, Australians, etc, their Lithuanian roots now allow many of them to obtain dual citizenship. In this way, not only do they get the additional benefits of an EU passport holder, but also maintain the connection with their historical roots.
The First wave of emigration from Lithuania to the USA
The period between 1865 and 1915 marked the beginning of the first wave of migration. At the time, the Russian Empire, which had discriminating policies, was economically backward, and purposefully left Lithuania undeveloped.
In addition, the Lithuanians in the Russian Empire were often discriminated against and assimilated. The Lithuanian language was banned, Lithuanian youths could be drafted into the army for 12 years, and colonists from Russia were brought to Lithuania in order to faster assimilate the local population. Russians were also given priority when it came to hiring, and most large enterprises did not belong to Lithuanians.
Thus, during that period Lithuanians emigrated in significant numbers; some 700 000 left, and the majority went to the United States where American Lithuanians would work in the industries and mines to avoid discrimination at home and seek better economic prospects.
Unfortunately, the descendants of the first wave of emigrants (those who left before 1918) are not eligible for Lithuanian citizenship since their ancestors left from the Russian empire and never had Lithuanian citizenship.
The Second Wave – Lithuanian emigration between the First and the Second World Wars
At the time of gaining its independence from the Russian Empire (February 16, 1918), the economy of Lithuania was very weak. This was mainly due to the consequences of the First World War and the destructive activities of both the Russian Empire and Germany.
Therefore even though Lithuania finally gained independence, it was the worsening economy that forced its citizens to emigrate to the country where they could earn money for their families.
In addition, a new phenomenon arose that helped drive the second wave of emigration as Lithuanians were provided with full support for the emigration process and actively advertised new opportunities in the new country.
The change of government in 1926, when a nationalist dictatorship took over the government was an additional factor that forced some people to emigrate. This was especially true for the Litvaks.
As a result, emigration again became a mass phenomenon after a temporary slowdown after independence. During the second wave of emigration, about 100,000 citizens left Lithuania.
Almost 30,000 of emigrants went to the US. More than 40,000 people emigrated to South America – mainly to Brazil, but also to places like Argentina and Uruguay. And up to 10,000 emigrated to Canada during the second wave of emigration from Lithuania.
By 1930, mass emigration from Lithuania to the countries of America had slowed down as a result of the Great Depression of 1929 in the USA.
The good news is that most of the descendants of the second wave of Lithuanian emigrants have the opportunity to restore their Lithuanian citizenship and pass it on to their children. At the same time, they do not have to renounce their currently-held citizenship. This is truly a great opportunity that is not to be missed!
The Exiles – The Third Wave of emigration
The beginning of the Second World War for Lithuania was marked by a short-term occupation by the Soviet Union in 1940, followed by the occupation by Germany, and then again by the Soviet Union in 1944.
Although the first occupation by the Soviet Union was short-lived, it was very brutal. Thousands of Lithuanians were exiled, and many were tortured and brutally murdered.
The occupation by Germany led to the extermination of hundreds of thousands of Lithuanian Jews. While ethnic Lithuanians suffered less from the German occupiers than from the Soviet ones, thousands of them were deported to concentration camps and forced labor in Germany.
Hence, when the Soviets were returning to Lithuania in 1944, the Lithuanians knew what to expect. And those who could, left the country. Up to 100,000 Lithuanians left their homeland to escape the Soviets.
Tens of thousands of Lithuanians were killed during the Soviet occupation. A lot of people were deported. At least 350,000 Lithuanians were deported to Siberia and other harsh regions of the Soviet Union. 200,000 Lithuanian Poles were expelled to Poland, and over 150,000 Lithuanian Germans were expelled or fled to Germany. Some of these exiles subsequently made their way to the United States.
In total, during the period from the beginning of the Soviet occupation until the death of Stalin, Lithuania lost close to a million inhabitants – that’s a third of its population!
During the Soviet occupation the borders of the Soviet Union were closed. As such, there was no mass emigration (but rather mass deportation, especially during the first decade of the occupation).
The descendants of the generation of exiles, in most cases, also have the opportunity to regain their Lithuanian citizenship, retain their connection with their roots, and pass it on to their children.
The Fourth Wave of emigration
The Fourth or Modern wave started approximately in the 1990s and is still continuing, even though it is gradually slowing down.
This wave is considered to be the largest wave of Lithuanian emigration. As European Union membership allowed free emigration to Western Europe almost a million Lithuanians left their homeland looking for a job or to study abroad. However, only a relatively small number went to the US since 1990.
This fourth wave has another feature. This group, who grew up in the Soviet Union and witnessed the collapse of its economy, often did not see the prospects of Lithuania and wanted to leave for a more prosperous country. Even now in the comments on social networks you can see their opinion that Lithuania is a country without a future.
However, as Lithuania develops and becomes an advanced economy (and Lithuania is currently ranked 11th in the ease of doing business ranking), the flow of emigration from the country is steadily declining.
In 2019, the number of immigrants exceeded the number of emigrants. At the same time, one can note not only the influx of foreigners into the country but also the increase in the number of Lithuanians returning to their homeland.
Unfortunately, the current legislation does not provide allow for obtaining dual citizenship for emigrants of this wave. Perhaps they will have such an opportunity if the vote in the referendum in 2024 is successful.
The renewal of Lithuanian passport in the USA
The renewal of a Lithuanian passport in the USA is firstly a question of freedom of choice. The underlying motivation for renewing a passport is not for traveling but first and foremost – for an opportunity to reconnect with the homeland of ancestors. The opportunity to pass on European citizenship to one’s children also plays a big part in making this choice. The second motivation is to live and work in Europe. The Lithuanian passport provides visa-free access to 185 countries. Thus, the renewal of it has a great number of advantages.
Each interested person is able to renew the Lithuanian passport in the USA. For the renewal or issuance of a dual Lithuanian passport, each applicant must collect the required package of documents and translate them into Lithuanian. If any documents are missing, they must be searched in the archives.
Going through the whole process alone, without relevant experience, can be quite difficult. By contacting us, you entrust your business to professionals – the percentage of successful filing for
restoring Lithuanian citizenship with us is more than 99%. After studying your dossier and collecting a package of documents, we can guarantee you the successful completion of the procedure.
We thank Ari Kleit for providing the photo of his father and grandfather
Sep 27, 2022 | Blog
Are you looking for the perfect place to plan your future? If you want pristine nature, a strong economy, and endless opportunities, you should consider immigration to Lithuania.
Lithuania is a small Baltic country with a lot to offer. Thanks to its EU membership and bright outlook, it has become a popular destination for young professionals, entrepreneurs, and families.
Nowadays, many countries have lost their identity and sense of community in search of financial success. Balanced living, dreaming, and raising a family are becoming harder.
Living in Lithuania is different. Despite a thriving, business-friendly economy, this country is deeply rooted in its rich history and provides real opportunities to those who choose it as their home.
Immigration to Lithuania brings you and your loved ones many benefits. Continue reading to find out how you can make them yours.
Presenting Lithuania: the gem of the Baltic
The Republic of Lithuania, the southernmost of the three Baltic States, is a land of ancient forests (covering about one-third of the country), picturesque lakes, and rolling hills. Above all, it is a land of proud, hospitable people.
Lithuania has a promising economy and excellent standards of living. The country is also very affordable, with a significantly lower cost of living than other EU countries. It is a great place to live and work and an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads and expats.
The country has a storied history (with archaeological finds dating back to Prehistoric times) and folk traditions that are very much alive. Lithuania’s cultural scene is thriving, with many festivals throughout the year.
5 Reasons to consider immigration to Lithuania
If you are looking for a country to call home, Lithuania is definitely worth a top spot. Here are five eye-opening reasons why you should consider moving to Lithuania.
1. Lithuania is part of the European Union
Because Lithuania has been a member of the EU since 2004, moving there gives you all the benefits of living in this politically and economically stable region.
As a legal resident or citizen of Lithuania, you will have the right to work, study, and travel within the block with minimal hassle. You also will have access to free, world-class healthcare and social security.
If you plan to work or start your own business, being part of the EU is an advantage. You get a large consumer market with no customs and a business-friendly tax system.
2. Lithuania gives you high standards of living
Lithuania consistently rates high in quality of life. The Baltic country boasts access to nature, low pollution levels, excellent healthcare, and a high standard of living— all at a lower cost than other Western European countries.
With a solid social security system, low unemployment, and a bright future, Lithuania ranks high in both the Human Development Index and Happiness Index. Safety and a stable foundation for your future make Lithuania a great place to live.
3. The Lithuanian economy is booming
Lithuania’s economy is solid, with a promising outlook and many benefits for citizens and residents. Lithuania’s GDP and average salaries are steadily growing while unemployment levels decrease. It is easy to find a job that allows you to thrive.
The country also provides incentives and supportive tax rates for companies— especially startups. Doing business in Lithuania is easier than in many other affluent countries such as Australia, Germany, the UAE, Canada, and Japan. Starting your own company or investing in Lithuania is sure to bring you benefits.
4. Lithuania’s education is an excellent foundation for your future
Education in Lithuania is compulsory and free until the secondary level. Later, Lithuanian universities provide excellent courses to Lithuanian and EU citizens (free) and non-EU citizens (at a very moderate cost).
If you are a long-term resident or a citizen of Lithuania, it is easier to access excellent educational institutions in other EU countries. Often, you can study there for free or at reduced rates.
Studying in the EU gives you many advantages: it gives you a cutting-edge education, makes you attractive to employers, and provides immediate job opportunities. And if you decide to start a family, your children will also enjoy all these benefits.
5. Lithuanian culture and history are thriving
Since its independence from the Soviet Union in 1990, Lithuanians have been working to preserve the nation’s unique culture and traditions. From traditional folk music and dance to delicious Lithuanian cuisine, there is much to enjoy about Lithuanian culture.
The Lithuanian community is also very close-knit, with people helping their neighbors in times of need. If you become a Lithuanian resident or citizen, you will enjoy and keep alive all of these longstanding aspects of Lithuanian culture.
Who can begin immigration to Lithuania?
Because Lithuania is a member of the European Union, EU citizens have the right to live and work in the country. Non-EU citizens can also obtain a residence permit for Lithuania, but the process is more complicated.
Non-EU nationals need a residence permit to move to Lithuania: an official document that verifies your reasons for being in the country and allows you to stay for a time (initially 2 years or less).
You will need to prove you have the means to sustain yourself and a valid reason to be in Lithuania. For example, a proven study track, a job contract, or marriage to a Lithuanian citizen. Or you can do business in Lithuania! When your permit expires, you will have to go through the process again.
But if you are eligible for Lithuanian citizenship, you can skip all this trouble and live in Lithuania permanently
Can you obtain Lithuanian citizenship?
To become a Lithuanian citizen and start your immigration to Lithuania with minimal paperwork, you need to meet the eligibility criteria:
- An ancestor (parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent) who was a citizen of the Republic of Lithuania before 1940.
- Proof that your ancestor left the country before Lithuania’s reassertion of independence in 1990.
- Proof that they did not become a citizen of another country— or that they did so only after 1940.
If you are ready to start the process of immigration to Lithuania and want to know your best options, write to us. We provide a free assessment to evaluate your eligibility for Lithuanian citizenship and help you make your dreams a reality.
