Can My Family Join Me If I Get a Lithuanian Work Permit?

Family Reunification for Lithuanian Work Permit Holders #

If you obtain a Lithuanian work permit, your family members may be eligible to join you in Lithuania through a process called family reunification. The specifics depend on your permit type and their relationship to you.

Who Qualifies as a Family Member? #

According to Lithuanian law, the following individuals are generally considered family members for reunification purposes:

• Spouse: Your legally recognized spouse.
• Minor Children: Your children and those of your spouse under the age of 18 who are unmarried.
• Dependent Adult Children: Adult children who are unable to support themselves due to health reasons.
• Dependent Parents: Parents who are unable to support themselves and are dependent on you.

Legal Basis #

The legal basis for family reunification in Lithuania is primarily governed by:

• Law on the Legal Status of Aliens: This law outlines the general conditions and procedures for family reunification.
• Regulations on the Implementation of the Law on the Legal Status of Aliens: These regulations provide detailed instructions on the application process and required documents.

Conditions and Requirements #

To be eligible for family reunification, you, as the work permit holder, must generally meet the following conditions:

• Valid Residence Permit: You must hold a valid residence permit in Lithuania based on your employment.
• Sufficient Resources: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support your family members without needing social assistance from the Lithuanian government. This includes having stable income, accommodation, and health insurance.
• Accommodation: You must have suitable accommodation for your family in Lithuania that meets the required standards.
• Health Insurance: You must ensure that your family members have health insurance coverage in Lithuania.
• No Threat to National Security: Neither you nor your family members should pose a threat to Lithuania’s national security, public order, or public health.

Application Process #

The application process for family reunification typically involves the following steps:

1. Application Submission: Your family members must apply for a residence permit at the Lithuanian embassy or consulate in their country of origin or legal residence. If they are legally in Lithuania, they can apply at the Migration Department.
2. Required Documents: The application must include all required documents, such as:
• Application form
• Passport copies
• Marriage certificate (for spouses)
• Birth certificates (for children)
• Proof of your residence permit and employment in Lithuania
• Proof of sufficient financial resources
• Proof of accommodation
• Health insurance documents
• Criminal record certificates
3. Review and Decision: The Migration Department reviews the application and makes a decision. This process can take several months.
4. Visa (if applicable): If the application is approved, your family members may need to apply for a visa to enter Lithuania.
5. Arrival and Registration: Upon arrival in Lithuania, your family members must register their residence with the local authorities.

Where to Apply #

Applications for temporary residence permits for family members can be submitted to:

• In their country of origin: At the Lithuanian embassy or consulate.
• In Lithuania: At the Migration Department under the Ministry of the Interior if they are legally residing in Lithuania.

Key Considerations #

• Financial Resources: Lithuania has specific requirements for the amount of financial resources needed to support family members. Check the latest requirements on the Migration Department’s website.
• Health Insurance: Ensure that the health insurance covers the necessary medical expenses in Lithuania.
• Document Translation: All foreign documents must be translated into Lithuanian and notarized.
• Legal Assistance: Consider seeking legal assistance from an immigration lawyer to ensure that your application is complete and accurate.

Official Resources #

• Migration Department of Lithuania: https://migracija.lrv.lt/en/
• Law on the Legal Status of Aliens: (Search for the latest version on the Seimas website – https://www.e-tar.lt/)

Disclaimer: Immigration laws and regulations can change. Always verify the most current information with the official sources listed above or consult with a qualified legal professional.