Legal and Immigration Support for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders in Lithuania

1. What are the legal rights and obligations of US citizens and green card holders while living in Lithuania?

US citizens and green card holders living in Lithuania are subject to the same rights and responsibilities as other residents of Lithuania. This includes the right to freedom of speech, the right to practice any religion, the right to vote, the right to freedom of assembly, the right to bear arms, the right to privacy, the right to a fair trial, and the obligation to pay taxes. US citizens and green card holders are also required to apply for a residence permit or register with the Lithuanian Migration Department if they plan on staying in Lithuania for more than 90 days. Additionally, they are required to carry valid identification at all times and must comply with any Lithuanian laws they come into contact with.

2. Are there any immigration benefits for US citizens and green card holders in Lithuania?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders may be eligible for a long-term visa or residence permit in Lithuania, depending on their situation. The most common immigration benefits for US citizens and green card holders include work permits, student visas, business visas, and family reunification visas. Depending on the type of visa sought, an individual may be eligible for up to five years of residence in Lithuania.

3. Are US citizens and green card holders allowed to work in Lithuania?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders are allowed to work in Lithuania provided they have a valid Lithuanian work permit.

4. Is there a specific quota for US citizens and green card holders to obtain a work visa in Lithuania?

As of March 2020, there is no specific quota for US citizens and green card holders to obtain a work visa in Lithuania. US citizens and green card holders can apply for a standard work visa, with the normal requirements for foreign workers.

5. Are US citizens and green card holders eligible for free movement within Lithuania?

No, US citizens and green card holders are not eligible for free movement within Lithuania. US citizens must obtain a visa before travelling to Lithuania. US permanent residents or green card holders must also obtain a visa, as they are not considered citizens of Lithuania.

6. Is there a specific period of time that US citizens and green card holders can stay in Lithuania?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders can stay in Lithuania for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

7. Can US citizens and green card holders apply for permanent residency in Lithuania?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders can apply for permanent residency in Lithuania. To do so, they must meet certain criteria such as having a valid residence permit, sufficient financial means to support themselves and their family, and not having a criminal record. Further details on the requirements and process can be found on the Lithuanian Immigration Department’s official website.

8. What are the requirements for US citizens and green card holders to obtain permanent residency in Lithuania?

In order to obtain permanent residency in Lithuania, US citizens and green card holders must have a valid passport and meet the following criteria:

• Have a source of income or a guaranteed pension in Lithuania
• Secure health insurance
• Have no criminal record
• Pass a basic Lithuanian language test
• Submit a valid application to the Migration Department of Lithuania
• Pay the relevant fees.

9. Does Lithuania have any special programs that benefit US citizens and green card holders?

Yes, Lithuania does have special programs that benefit US citizens and green card holders. The Lithuanian Innovation Center, a government-funded initiative, offers support to American and other non-EU citizens in the form of grant funding, mentorship and networking opportunities. The program is designed to attract highly skilled individuals to Lithuania and promote entrepreneurship and innovation. Additionally, Lithuania offers special tax incentives for companies founded by American entrepreneurs.

10. Are there any incentives for US citizens and green card holders to invest in Lithuania businesses or real estate?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders can benefit from the Lithuania Corporate Income Tax Act, which offers a reduced tax rate of 15% for profits earned by Lithuanian companies. Additionally, the country has several investment incentives that include tax credits, exemptions and other subsidies, primarily for businesses in the manufacturing and technology sectors. For real estate investments, there are some tax exemptions available for new construction projects, and non-residents can benefit from certain rental income tax exemptions.

11. Is it necessary for US citizens and green card holders to obtain a residence permit in Lithuania?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders are required to obtain a residence permit in Lithuania. The required documents for the residence permit application include a valid passport or other travel document, proof of income, proof of health insurance, and a valid visa.

12. Are US citizens and green card holders required to pay taxes on income earned from Lithuania?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders are required to pay taxes on income earned from Lithuania. The US generally has a worldwide taxation system, so US citizens and green card holders are subject to taxation on their worldwide income, regardless of where it is earned.

13. Are there any restrictions on ownership of property in Lithuania for US citizens and green card holders?

No, US citizens and green card holders are not subject to any restrictions on ownership of property in Lithuania.

14. What type of visas do US citizens and green card holders need to enter Lithuania?

US citizens and green card holders do not need a visa to enter Lithuania for stays of up to 90 days.

15. Is there a dedicated immigration office or agency that deals with legal matters related to US citizens and green card holders in Lithuania?

No, there is no dedicated immigration office or agency that deals with legal matters related to US citizens and green card holders in Lithuania. The US Embassy in Vilnius is the closest office that can provide assistance in such matters, and it provides information on immigration to and from the United States.

16. Does the government of Lithuania provide any support services for US citizens and green card holders such as legal aid or translation services?

No, the Government of Lithuania does not provide any support services for US citizens and green card holders such as legal aid or translation services.

17. What is the process for applying for citizenship in Lithuania for US Citizens and Green Card Holders?

US citizens and Green Card holders who wish to apply for Lithuanian citizenship must meet a variety of criteria. These requirements include:

1. Being 18 years of age or older
2. Having a valid passport
3. Possessing Lithuanian ancestry or having a qualifying family connection to an existing Lithuanian citizen
4. Having a permanent residence in Lithuania for at least three years before filing the application
5. Passing a Lithuanian language examination
6. Passing a knowledge test on Lithuania’s history and culture
7. Being able to demonstrate financial stability and self-sufficiency
8. Not having any criminal record in Lithuania or any other country
9. Paying all applicable fees and filing all necessary paperwork with the Lithuanian government
10. Obtaining a favorable recommendation from the Lithuanian Naturalization Board
11. Taking an oath of allegiance to the Republic of Lithuania

Once all of these requirements have been met, applicants may submit their applications to the Lithuanian government for approval. Applicants may also be required to attend an interview with officials from the Lithuanian Naturalization Board in order to discuss their application further.

18. Are there any educational opportunities available for the children of US Citizens and Green Card Holders living in Lithuania?

Yes, there are educational opportunities available for the children of US citizens and Green Card Holders living in Lithuania. Students can attend public schools, private schools, or international schools. Additionally, they can pursue higher education through universities and colleges located in Lithuania. Financial aid, scholarships, and student loans may be available to help cover educational expenses.

19. What is the process for registering a business in Lithuania as a US Citizen or Green Card Holder?

To register a business as a US citizen or green card holder in Lithuania, the following steps should be taken:
1. Choose a business name and confirm its availability.
2. Choose a business form and register the company at the Companies Register of Lithuania.
3. Open a bank account for the company.
4. Get any necessary licenses, permits, and certificates.
5. Register for VAT purposes.
6. Register for social security payments and health insurance contributions for employees, if applicable.
7. Prepare and submit an annual report to the Companies Register of Lithuania.
8. Pay taxes on time.

20. Are there any special requirements or restrictions on travel outside of Lithuania for US Citizens or Green Card Holders living in Lithuania?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders living in Lithuania must comply with the restrictions and requirements of both Lithuania and the United States when traveling outside of Lithuania. This includes obtaining a valid passport, visa, and any other necessary documents to enter and remain in the destination country. US citizens must also comply with the US government’s travel restrictions and advisories.