Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Obtaining a Lithuanian passport may seem like an intriguing process for those aspiring to explore European horizons or reconnect with their Baltic roots.
In this article, we will reveal the essential steps to acquire this valuable document, detailing not only the eligibility criteria but also the administrative procedures to follow.
Whether you’re interested in the benefits of free movement within the European Union or simply curious about multiple citizenship options, our detailed guide will provide all the necessary information to navigate each step with confidence.
Join us on this fascinating journey and discover the keys to making your dream of Lithuanian citizenship a reality.
Steps to Obtain a Lithuanian Passport
Administrative Steps to Obtain a Lithuanian Passport
1. Collect Required Documents
- Birth certificate
- National identity code assignment certificate
- Current passport (for renewal)
- Citizenship certificate or valid ID card
- Completed application form
- Recent photographs meeting standards
- For minors: parental authorization and presence of a legal guardian
2. Filling Out Forms
Official passport application form available from local administration or online
3. Application Submission Process
- Mandatory personal appearance at passport office or Lithuanian embassy
- Prior appointment recommended
- Submission possible at municipal offices, government service centers, or embassy/consulate
- For minors, presence of parent or legal guardian required
| Category | Specific Documents to Provide | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| First Application | Birth certificate, national code, ID document | Physical presence, appointment |
| Renewal | Current passport, ID document | Loss declaration if applicable |
| Lost Passport | Official loss declaration | Specific form to complete |
| Minors | Parental authorization, ID document | Presence of minor and parent |
4. Associated Fees and Payment Methods
- Adult: 94 EUR
- Under 20, retirees, disabled persons: 70 EUR
- Payment accepted in cash or by card during application submission
5. Processing Times
- Average time: 8 weeks
- Recommended to submit application several weeks before needed date
- Passport collection in person within 3 months of notification
6. Application Tracking
- Online tracking available via official portal using receipt number
- SMS or email notification when passport is ready
7. Special Conditions
- Minors: presence of minor and parent/guardian mandatory at each step
- Renewal: presentation of current passport and ID documents
- Lost or stolen passport: loss or theft declaration required
Submission Locations in Lithuania
- Municipal service centers equipped for biometric registration
- Lithuanian embassy or consulate for residents abroad
- Online service available for certain procedures (pre-registration, tracking)
Tips to Simplify the Process
- Prepare all original documents and copies in advance
- Schedule appointment online or by phone to avoid waiting
- Verify photo compliance before submission
- Use online tracking to monitor progress and anticipate collection
- For minors, prepare parental authorization and ensure parent/guardian presence
Important Information
- Collective travel documents are not accepted.
- Family booklet alone is insufficient for minors.
- In case of loss or theft, official declaration must be made promptly with competent administration.
Good to Know:
To speed up processing, submit your Lithuanian passport application online and pay fees by bank card; for minors, plan an in-person visit to the nearest passport office.
Cost and Processing Times for Passport in Lithuania
Cost of Lithuanian Passport
| Applicant Category | Standard Passport | Express Passport (expedited) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (over 18) | ~€43 to €58 | ~€70 to €90 |
| Teenager (14-18) | ~€22 to €29 | ~€36 to €45 |
| Child (under 14) | ~€13 to €19 | ~€22 to €28 |
- Fees vary according to processing speed and sometimes municipality.
- Express passports are more expensive and available only for urgent cases.
- Discounts or exemptions possible for certain categories (e.g., large families, disability situations).
Payment Methods
- Payments can be made by bank card, transfer, or cash at passport issuance centers.
- Online procedures generally require secure electronic payment.
Processing Times
| Service Type | Average Time |
|---|---|
| Standard | 1 to 4 weeks |
| Express | 1 to 5 days |
- During peak periods (holidays, back-to-school), delays may extend by several days.
- For emergency situations (death, hospitalization), ultra-fast processing (24h) may be exceptionally granted with documentation.
Procedures and Appointments
- Passport application is made at civil registry offices.
- Appointment generally necessary, scheduled online via official portal or by phone.
- For children, presence of minor and both parents (or legal representative) required.
- Application requires collection of biometric data (photo, fingerprints).
Online Procedures
- Application form can be pre-filled online before appointment.
- Application progress tracking available on Lithuanian administration portal.
- Online appointment scheduling strongly advised, especially during busy periods.
Note
- Collection times vary depending on submission location and chosen processing method.
- In case of errors in file or missing documents, procedure may be delayed.
- Recommended to submit application several weeks before planned travel date, especially in summer and before school holidays.
Important Information
Exact fees and timelines may change; verify latest information on official Lithuanian civil registry website or with embassy/consulate.
Good to Know:
The cost of a Lithuanian passport ranges from €44 to €71 depending on age and mode (standard or express), with standard processing time of about one month; express options available, especially outside peak demand periods. Payments generally made in cash or by card, and online appointment recommended to avoid waiting.
Advantages of Owning a Lithuanian Passport
| Main Advantage | Specific Details |
|---|---|
| Freedom of Movement | Right to live, work, and study in all European Union countries. Visa-free access to Schengen area. |
| Access to Erasmus Program | Opportunity to participate in university exchanges and receive scholarships throughout EU. |
| Visa-Free Travel | Travel possible without visa to over 180 countries worldwide, facilitating tourism and business. |
| Business Opportunities | Full access to European single market, freedom to invest, create or acquire businesses in any EU country. |
| Employment in EU | Right to apply for any job in EU without restrictions or additional work permits. |
| Potential Tax Benefits | Some EU countries offer tax advantages or specific agreements for citizens established abroad, allowing tax optimization based on chosen tax residence. |
| Access to Public Services | Right to education, healthcare, and quality social security in Lithuania and often in other European countries. |
| Political Rights | Right to vote and stand for election in local and European elections. |
List of Social and Cultural Benefits:
- Belonging to a Dynamic Society: Lithuania stands out for its cultural openness, artistic vitality, international festivals, and booming tech scene.
- Preservation of Identity: Lithuanian citizenship maintains strong connection with language, traditions, and country’s history, even for diaspora Lithuanians.
- Multiculturalism and Openness: Lithuania values diversity, encourages intercultural exchange, and hosts numerous European events.
- Supportive Community: Strong social cohesion, importance of family and community networks, support for expatriates through associations and consular services.
The Lithuanian passport, as a European citizenship document, opens doors to the world. It combines fundamental EU freedoms, exceptional international mobility, professional and academic opportunities, while preserving a living cultural heritage.
Good to Know:
The Lithuanian passport facilitates free movement in 26 Schengen area countries, access to Erasmus program, and allows visa-free travel to over 180 countries. As an EU citizen, you also benefit from expanded professional opportunities and potential tax advantages abroad.
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Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
