Effective today, September 2, 2024, Lithuania will no longer accept temporary residence permit applications through another external service provider in Nepal.
We remind you that when selecting foreign countries, the Migration Department must take into account the interests of state security, the priority directions of foreign policy, the needs of the labour market and institutional capacities. In addition, the Migration Department must consult with the State Security Department, the State Border Guard Service and the police regarding foreign countries.
Lithuania Closes Visa Application Centers in Lebanon, Jordan & Sri Lanka Over Security Concerns
As the Ministry revealed, so far this year, the number of outsourced units has decreased from 34 to 31, with closures in Lebanon, Jordan, and Sri Lanka.
Since March 1 of this year, Lithuania has also discontinued residence permit and visa applications through external providers in these three countries due to national security concerns. The country came to this decision following a broader policy review to ensure the safety and effectiveness of external visa services.
In addition to these closures, the Lithuanian Ministry has announced new regulations for external service providers in India. As of the same date mentioned above, March 1, 2024, these providers only assisted with applications from specific groups, including Lithuanian family members, highly qualified workers, company transferees, teachers, students, and researchers.
Services for applying for Lithuanian residence permits are still available through external providers in the following countries:
- Albania
- Argentina
- Armenia
- Australia
- Azerbaijan
- Brazil
- Canada
- Georgia
- Israel
- Japan
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Malaysia
- Moldova
- Nepal
- New Zealand
- Philippines
- Singapore
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Tajikistan
- Taiwan
- Thailand
- Türkiye
- Ukraine
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Uzbekistan
- Venezuela
Lithuania Updates Rules for External Visa Providers
Previously, Lithuania has unveiled new regulations governing the selection of foreign countries where temporary residence permit applications can be submitted through external service providers.
Under the updated procedure, several key factors must be considered:
- State Security: The Department of Migration will assess the security risks associated with each country.
- Foreign Policy and Labor Market Needs: Evaluations will include assessing whether each country aligns with Lithuania’s foreign policy priorities and labour market requirements.
- Institutional Capacity: The Department will review the capabilities of external service providers in each country.
Additionally, the Department of Migration must consult with the Department of Homeland Security, the State Border Guard Service, and the police before making any decisions.
