How does Startup Visa Lithuania work in Lithuania, and who qualifies?

Startup Visa Lithuania is run together with Startup Lithuania (part of the Innovation Agency / Invest Lithuania) and is aimed at entrepreneurs with an innovative, scalable business idea. The process begins with an expert committee evaluating and endorsing your idea, which is the gateway step rather than the residence permit itself.

With that endorsement and a company registered in Lithuania, you then apply to the Migration Department for a temporary residence permit, typically valid for one year and renewable. You will also need to show sufficient funds to support yourself and develop the business, a clean criminal record and a valid travel document.

The committee evaluation usually takes about 15 to 30 days, and the subsequent residence permit typically takes around one to two months. It is a genuinely entrepreneurial route, so the strength and innovativeness of your idea matter most. ACME can help you shape your application for the committee stage and plan the move from endorsement to residence permit, and we suggest confirming the latest programme details with the official sources before you start.