A Guide to Lithuanian Study Visa

Lithuania, a small European country situated between Latvia and Poland, has recently been gaining popularity as a study-abroad destination for international students. With a growing number of students from diverse backgrounds choosing to study in Lithuania, the country is becoming increasingly known for its high-quality education system, affordable living costs, and diverse cultural experiences. The Lithuanian education system is globally recognized, with universities offering a wide range of programs in various fields, including medicine, humanities, mathematics, computer science, physical sciences, social sciences, educational sciences, law, business, and public management. The cost of living in Lithuania is also relatively low compared to other European countries, making it an attractive destination for students seeking a high-quality education without breaking the bank. In addition to a range of scholarships, international students can work part-time to help cover their expenses, with EU students allowed to work up to 40 hours per week and non-EU students permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. The employment market in Lithuania is booming, with a high employment rate among the working-age population, particularly for those with tertiary education. As such, there isn’t a better time to study in the country than now. One of the most important aspects of studying in Lithuania is the student visa, which serves as the key document that allows international students to access all the benefits of studying in the country. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the Lithuanian study visa, looking at the key aspects of the visa process and how it enables international students to make the most of their time in Lithuania.

Lithuanian Study Visa: Highlights 

What is a Lithuanian Student Visa? 

The Lithuanian student visa, also known as the Visa D, is designed for international students who wish to study in Lithuania. This visa allows students to live and study in Lithuania for the duration of their academic program. The visa is typically valid for the duration of the studies but can be extended to seek employment after graduation. It also allows students to work part-time during term-time and full-time during university holidays. The duration of the Lithuanian Student Visa is tied to the length of the student’s course of study. If the course lasts less than three months, no visa is required for European students, but a certificate from the Lithuanian Ministry of the Interior is necessary. If the course lasts more than three months, a student visa and a temporary residence permit are required for both European and non-European students. 

After completing their studies, students can apply for a temporary residence permit to seek employment, which is valid for up to 12 months. If a student finds employment during this period, they must apply for a residence permit based on employment. Lithuania is a member of the European Union, so students from EU member states do not need a work permit or visa to stay in the country after their studies. However, non-EU/EEA or Swiss nationals need a residence permit to work in Lithuania. International students are subject to the same tax laws as Lithuanian citizens. They must register with the State Social Insurance Fund and pay social security contributions. 

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Lithuanian Student Visa: Eligibility 

To apply for a student visa (D Visa) in Lithuania, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Acceptance letter from a Lithuanian university: You must have a formal admissions letter from your chosen institution and pay any required enrollment fees.
• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the duration of your study program.
• Proof of sufficient financial resources: You must demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover your living costs in Lithuania (at least 150 EUR per month).
• Health insurance: You must have a health insurance policy with a minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR for students and 6,000 EUR for dependents.
• Details of your accommodation arrangements and address: You must provide information about your student accommodation arrangements and address in Lithuania.
• Flight itinerary: You must provide a copy of your flight itinerary, including your return tickets.
• Police clearance certificate: You must submit a police clearance certificate issued by the police in your home country.
• Electronically registered for a temporary residence permit: You must submit an initial residence permit application through MIGRIS (The Lithuanian Migration Information System).
• Biometric data: You will need to have your biometric data recorded at a Lithuanian embassy or consulate.
• Letter of mediation: A letter of mediation submitted electronically by the higher education institution via the Lithuanian Migration Information System.
• Proof of language proficiency: You must demonstrate your language proficiency in English or Lithuanian, depending on the language of instruction at your chosen university.

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Lithuanian Student Visa: Application Process 

Accepting a University Place:

• Upon receiving a formal admissions letter from your chosen institution, confirm your acceptance.
• Fulfill any financial obligations by paying the required enrollment fees to secure your place at the university.

Scheduling a Visa Appointment:

• Locate and make a list of official Lithuanian embassies and consulates in your home country.
• Obtain the visa application form from the embassy’s website or in person, and carefully fill out each section with accurate and current information.
• Collect all necessary supporting documents, which may include your admissions letter, proof of financial means, and any other paperwork requested by the embassy.

Attending Your Visa Appointment:

• Present your completed application form, and all supporting documents, and cover the visa processing fee at the embassy in person.
• Your application will then undergo processing, during which you may be required to attend an interview or provide additional information.

Waiting for a Visa Decision:

• The standard processing time for visa applications is approximately two weeks. However, more complex cases could extend up to six weeks.
• Stay in communication with the consulate, as they will inform you when your passport with the visa is ready for collection.

Registering for a Temporary Residence Permit:

• Initiate your residence permit application by submitting the necessary forms through MIGRIS, the Lithuanian Migration Information System.
• Schedule an appointment to present your documents in person at the Lithuanian embassy. This step also involves recording your biometric data.
• Ensure that this in-person submission is completed within four months following your electronic registration to avoid any delays in the issuance of your residence permit.

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Lithuanian Study Visa: Documents Required 

To apply for a student visa (Visa D) in Lithuania, you will need the following documents:

• A completed and signed visa application form: This form can be found on the website of the Lithuanian Migration Information System (MIGRIS) and must be filled in Latin characters, printed, and submitted along with the other required documents
• A recent passport-sized photograph: The photograph must have been taken within the last six months and meet the Schengen visa requirements
• A valid passport: The passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the duration of your study program and have at least two blank pages. 
• Formal admissions letter from your university: This letter must have been issued within the last 10 years and at least two blank pages. 
• Proof of sufficient financial resources: You must provide evidence that you have at least 150 EUR per month to cover your living costs in Lithuania.
• Details of your accommodation arrangements and address: You will need to provide information about where you will be staying during your time in Lithuania.
• Your flight itinerary: This should include your return flight details.
• Student health insurance: You must have health insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR. 
• Police Clearance Certificate: A police clearance certificate issued by the police in your home country. 
• Mediation Letter: A letter of mediation submitted electronically by the higher education institution via the Lithuanian Migration Information System (MIGRIS)

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Lithuanian Study Visa: Cost and Processing Times 

The processing time for a Lithuanian student visa (Visa D) is typically around two weeks, but it may extend up to 45 calendar days in individual cases. The visa application fee is approximately 120 EUR, and a residence permit costs an additional 120 EUR. For the residence permit, the decision is usually made within 3 months, but for an additional fee, it can be expedited to 45 days. The residence permit is granted for 2 years or for the total duration of your studies if it’s less than 2 years. During the last year of studies, the residence permit can be renewed for 3 months longer than the estimated studies. The renewal decision is made within 2 months, but with an additional fee, it can be expedited to 1 month. If your visa is rejected, you have the option to appeal within 14 days or re-apply at any time. 

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What to Do if Your Visa Application is Rejected? 

Review the Rejection Letter: The rejection letter will typically specify the reason(s) for the refusal. Understanding the grounds on which your application was denied is crucial for deciding your next steps.

Address the Concerns Raised: If the rejection was due to insufficient documentation, financial concerns, or other specific reasons, take the time to address these issues thoroughly before submitting a new application. Providing comprehensive and accurate information can improve your chances of approval.

Consider Appealing the Decision: In some cases, you may have the option to appeal the decision. If you believe there was a misunderstanding or if you can provide additional information to address the concerns raised by the immigration authorities, appealing might be a viable option.

Seek Legal Advice: Consulting with an immigration lawyer or legal advisor who specializes in visa matters can provide valuable insights. They can review your case, identify any potential weaknesses, and advise you on the best course of action.

Reapply: Depending on the reason for the rejection and the circumstances surrounding your application, you may choose to reapply for the visa. However, it’s essential to address any issues that led to the initial refusal and provide any necessary additional documentation or explanations to strengthen your case.

Maintain Transparency and Honesty: When reapplying or appealing, ensure that all information provided is truthful and accurate. Attempting to conceal information or misrepresent your circumstances can further jeopardize your chances of obtaining a visa.

Consider Alternative Options: If reapplying for a Lithuanian visa seems challenging or if you’re concerned about another rejection, you might explore alternative pathways. This could include applying for a visa to another country that meets your travel or study objectives.

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Conclusion 

In conclusion, the Lithuanian study visa provides a golden opportunity for international students to live, work, and study in the country and enjoy the enormous benefits and support it provides for students. It’s important to note that while the process may seem straightforward, it is essential to approach it with careful consideration and thorough preparation to increase the chances of approval. Seeking guidance when necessary can also significantly enhance the application’s quality and accuracy. By ensuring that all required documents are in order, providing honest and complete information, and demonstrating a genuine intent to study in Lithuania, applicants can maximize their chances of obtaining the visa. Additionally, consulting with experts or utilizing resources such as visa application guides can help navigate any complexities and ensure a smooth and successful application process. For more information and guidance regarding studying in Lithuania, don’t hesitate to contact our admission experts at Gyanberry. Book your free video call appointment now!