Lithuania has introduced stricter regulations for hiring foreign workers, with new policies coming into effect on July 1, 2024. These changes stem from the recently implemented Law on the Legal Status of Aliens, which aims to better manage labour migration in the country.
Key Changes for Foreign Workers in Lithuania
As of July 1, 2024, foreign nationals will no longer be able to work in Lithuania under visa-free regimes, national or Schengen visas, or residence permits issued by other countries. To continue working in Lithuania, they will need to obtain a temporary residence permit specifically issued by Lithuania.
However, there are certain exemptions to this rule. Foreigners arriving in Lithuania legally and meeting specific criteria will be exempt from obtaining a work permit. These exceptions include foreigners who:
- Are employed by a company based in an EU member state.
- Are in Lithuania for less than three months per year.
- Are entrepreneurs and shareholders of Lithuanian companies.
Also Read: EU Demands 2D Barcode Visas from Bulgaria, Greece, Cyprus, and Lithuania
Impact on Existing Workers
Foreigners who started working in Lithuania before these amendments will still be able to work until their current legal stay expires or they acquire the right to work under new conditions.
For instance, Belarusian nationals holding a Polish visa and working in Lithuania under the shortage occupation list can continue working until their visa expires.
The Migration Department advises foreigners seeking to continue their employment to apply for a work-based temporary residence permit at least four months before their current visa expires.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
The Lithuanian government has taken steps to enforce these new regulations strictly. Working without a valid permit will now be considered illegal, and employers who violate these regulations will face administrative penalties.
Companies found guilty of employing illegal or undeclared foreign workers could be banned from hiring new foreign employees for one year.
Changes in Residence Permit Appeals
The new law also brings significant changes to how residence permit cancellations are handled. Previously, foreigners could retain their residence permits while appealing a decision to cancel their permit. As of July 1, 2024, this practice has been discontinued.
Now, if a foreigner’s residence permit is cancelled and they appeal, the permit will still be declared invalid during the appeal process. If the foreigner fails to leave Lithuania within 14 days after the permit cancellation, they will be issued a return decision. If this decision is not enforced, deportation and a ban on re-entering Lithuania will follow.
Avoiding Abuse of the System
The tightened regulations are partly aimed at preventing foreigners from abusing the system by using methods such as fake marriages, finding new employers, or enrolling in studies to remain in the country.
The government’s new approach ensures that foreigners who do not meet the legal requirements for residence will no longer be able to delay their departure by exploiting these loopholes.
Conclusion
With the upcoming changes, foreign workers in Lithuania must now navigate a stricter legal landscape. Those affected should take prompt action to secure their legal status before the new regulations take full effect. Employers also need to comply with the new rules to avoid penalties and restrictions on hiring foreign workers in the future.
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