Can I work in Lithuania while studying?
Yes. Below are the requirements for both EU and non-EU students.
For EU Students
Work Hours: EU students (and citizens of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland) can work up to 40 hours per week, with no restrictions on working hours. Employment procedures are the same as for local citizens.
Residency Requirements:
- EU students do not need a residence permit to enter Lithuania and can stay for up to 3 months without documentation.
- After 3 months, they must apply for a temporary residence certificate.
- The certificate is usually issued within one month of the application.
Documents Required:
- Valid travel document
- Proof of admission to an educational institution
- Proof of financial means to support living in Lithuania
- Proof of valid health insurance
For Non-EU Students
Work Hours and Requirements:
During Studies:
- Bachelor’s students are allowed to work part-time, up to 20 hours per week during their studies.
- Master’s and PhD students are permitted to work full-time (up to 40 hours per week) while studying, provided they hold a temporary residence permit for studies.
After Graduation: Recent graduates from non-EU/EEA countries who completed their degree in Lithuania do not need a work permit to continue working. Additionally, graduates have a 3-month period to apply for a new temporary residence permit, allowing them to remain in Lithuania for 12 months while searching for employment.
Visa and Residency:
- If you are a non-EU student intending to stay in Lithuania for up to one year, you can apply for a National Visa (D), usually issued within 15 days.
- For stays longer than a year, you will need a temporary residence permit (TRP):
New TRP: General processing takes up to 3 months, while the fast-track option takes up to 45 days.
Renewal of TRP: Requires submission 2 months before the current permit expires (but no more than 4 months before). General renewal takes up to 2 months, with a fast-tracked option available in up to 1 month.
For further information, you can consult the Migration Department: www.migracija.lt/en/esu-studentas1).