Lithuania•EuropeSubsidiary Protection (Papildoma apsauga)
At a Glance
Varies
Not confirmed
Check the official source
2 years
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote work OK
Overview
International protection granting a 1-year temporary residence permit to persons facing serious harm in their country of origin who do not qualify as refugees.
Subsidiary protection is an international protection status established under the Law on the Legal Status of Aliens in Lithuania, aligning with European Union directives. It serves as a complementary mechanism for individuals who do not qualify for refugee status but cannot safely return to their country of origin. This status fills the protection gap for those facing a real risk of serious harm, such as the death penalty, torture, or threats to life and safety due to indiscriminate violence in situations of armed conflict, ensuring they are not returned to dangerous conditions.
This status is intended for third-country nationals or stateless persons who face specific, serious threats in their home country. It is distinct because it is granted based on the objective risk of harm rather than individual persecution. Beneficiaries are granted a 1-year temporary residence permit, which can be renewed, and are exempt from the requirement to obtain a work permit. This allows them to immediately enter the labor market, facilitating their integration while they remain under the protection of the Lithuanian state.
Stay & Extensions
| Initial grant | 2 years |
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
LithuaniaPermanent Residence Permit - 5-Year Continuous Residence (Leidimas nuolat gyventi)
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must be a foreigner who does not qualify for refugee status.
Must have a well-founded fear of being subjected to torture, cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment in the country of origin.
Must face a risk of the death penalty or execution.
Must face a serious and personal threat to life, health, safety, or freedom due to indiscriminate violence in an international or domestic armed conflict.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid travel document (if available).
Identity documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.).
Evidence supporting the claim of persecution or threat (e.g., documents, statements, or other proof).
Completed asylum application form.
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Protection against refoulement (return to the country of origin).
- Right to reside in Lithuania.
- Exemption from the requirement to obtain a work permit.
- Access to social integration services, healthcare, and education.
- Freedom of movement within the state.
Worth Knowing
- Status is not permanent; it is reviewed after 2 years to see if the grounds for protection still exist.
- If the situation in the country of origin improves, the protection may be withdrawn.
- The process involves a rigorous assessment of the applicant's claims.
- Asylum seekers may be subject to specific obligations and monitoring during the application process.
Application Process
Apply in person at the State Border Guard Service (if at the border) or the Migration Department (if already in Lithuania).
Submit a motivated application detailing the facts and reasons for seeking asylum.
Undergo an assessment process by the Migration Department (typically within 6 months).
Receive a temporary residence permit (initially valid for 2 years) if the application is approved.
Related visas
More visas in Lithuania
Humanitarian visas in other countries
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