Lithuania•EuropeStartup Visa (Startuolio viza)
At a Glance
1-2 months
5 years
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Residence permit for up to 2 years (extendable to 5) for non-EU entrepreneurs establishing innovative, technology-based, scalable businesses in Lithuania.
The Startup Visa Lithuania is a specialized government initiative launched in 2017 to attract innovative foreign entrepreneurs to the country's growing business ecosystem. It is designed to bypass traditional, more restrictive immigration pathways by offering a streamlined process for founders of technology-driven startups. The program is managed in cooperation with Startup Lithuania and Invest Lithuania, filling a gap for high-growth potential businesses that require a more flexible and supportive environment to scale their operations within the European Union market.
This visa is for ambitious non-EU/EEA entrepreneurs who have an innovative, scalable business idea—typically in sectors like fintech, biotech, or ICT—that is approved by an expert committee. Unlike standard work visas, it focuses on the potential economic and social contribution of the business to Lithuania. It is distinctive because it allows successful applicants to relocate with their families and provides a clear, accelerated route to obtaining a temporary residence permit. It is specifically tailored for founders who are ready to actively manage and develop their startup in a modern, innovation-friendly environment.
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Applicant must be a non-EU/EEA citizen.
Business idea must be innovative, technology-based, and scalable.
Must be approved by the Startup Visa Lithuania program (Startup Lithuania).
Applicant must play an active managerial role in the company.
Must intend to register the company in Lithuania.
Proof of sufficient financial resources to support the startup and the founder.
Valid health insurance (minimum coverage EUR 30,000).
KEY CRITERIA
Min. Income
12,456 EUR/yr
Investment
8,000 EUR
Min. Savings
11,088 EUR
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport
Passport photographs
Business plan
MVP or prototype
Traction evidence
Proof of funds
Proof of accommodation
Health insurance
Startup approval letter
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Access to the EU market.
- Favorable business environment and tax incentives.
- Opportunity to bring family members.
- Path to permanent residence after 5 years of continuous legal stay.
- Fast-track processing options available.
Worth Knowing
- Highly competitive evaluation process.
- Mandatory requirement to register and operate the company within 120 days of arrival.
- Strict financial and reporting requirements for the startup.
- Must maintain the innovative nature of the business to renew the permit.
Application Process
Submit business concept and application via the Startup Lithuania platform.
Participate in an interview/evaluation by the Startup Committee.
Receive an official endorsement/confirmation letter from Startup Lithuania.
Register the company in Lithuania (e.g., UAB).
Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) via MIGRIS.
Attend an appointment to provide biometrics and original documents.
Pay the processing fee (EUR 150 standard, EUR 300 urgent).
Related visas
More visas in Lithuania
Work visas in other countries
- Caregiver Immigration Pilots
Canada
- Innovator Founder Visa
United Kingdom
- Researcher Scheme (Forskerordningen)
Denmark
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