Lithuania's Startup Visa is a temporary residence permit for non-EU/EEA entrepreneurs to establish and operate innovative, technology-based businesses. Lithuania was the first country in Central and Eastern Europe to introduce a dedicated startup visa. The program targets founders with scalable business ideas in sectors such as fintech, ICT, biotechnology, nanotechnology, mechatronics, electronics, and laser technologies, providing access to the broader EU single market through Schengen area membership.
The application follows two phases. In Phase 1, submit a startup evaluation application via startupvisalithuania.com with a business plan, pitch deck, team CVs, and prototype or MVP evidence. If accepted, attend a recorded online video interview with the evaluation committee of 5-10 members from startup accelerators, venture capital funds, and government agencies. The committee evaluates innovation level, market attractiveness, scalability, and team capability within 15-30 calendar days. Upon approval, an endorsement letter is issued valid for 6 months.
In Phase 2, submit a temporary residence permit application via MIGRIS (migracija.lt) with all required documents including the endorsement letter, then attend an in-person appointment at International House Vilnius, International House Klaipeda, or a Lithuanian embassy abroad. Per the official guidebook, processing takes about 1 month (general procedure) or 15 days (urgent), with statutory maximums of up to 3 months standard or 45 days urgent.
The initial permit is issued for 1 year and can be changed (renewed) for 1 year up to two further times. After it has been changed twice, it may be replaced for a further 2 years if the company has attracted at least EUR 30,000 in investment since establishment (confirmed by Innovation Agency Lithuania / Enterprise Lithuania) — the programme is summarised officially as an initial 2-year permit extendable to a total of 5 years. Each renewal requires re-confirmation that the applicant continues to develop the approved startup. Alternatively, holders may transition to a standard business temporary residence permit (up to 3 additional years) if the company has equity capital of at least EUR 28,000 with a minimum EUR 14,000 foreign investment.
After receiving the residence permit, the holder must establish a Lithuanian company (typically a UAB) and commence approved activities within 120 days. Startup Lithuania must be notified of company registration within 3 working days. The holder must declare their place of residence at the local Migration Office within 7 days of arrival.
Spouse, registered partner, and dependent children may apply for family reunification permits for the same duration as the main applicant. Each family member must independently demonstrate means of subsistence of one minimum monthly wage per month and hold valid health insurance. Family members have independent access to the Lithuanian labour market. After 5 years of continuous residence, family members may independently apply for permanent residence.
After 5 continuous years of residence on temporary permits, holders may apply for a permanent residence permit, subject to passing Lithuanian language (A2 level) and Constitution examinations. Absences must not exceed 6 consecutive months or 10 months total within the 5-year period. Lithuanian citizenship is available after 10 years of continuous residence.
Personal income tax is 20% on employment income (32% above EUR 114,162 annually). Corporate income tax is 15% standard, with 0% for the first fiscal year for small companies with income under EUR 300,000 and a reduced 5% rate for small companies with fewer than 10 employees and annual income under EUR 300,000. Dividends are taxed at 15%. Standard VAT rate is 21%.