A dialogue between Student and Arturas Mickus from Pathways.lt

Student: I just finished my master’s degree in Vilnius—what are my options now? I’ve heard about some sort of “post‑graduation” period, but I’m not sure how it works.

Arturas Mickus: Congratulations! In Lithuania, you have a 9‑month visa after graduation. It isn’t officially called a “post‑graduation visa,” but think of it as your job‑seeking visa.

Student: So during these nine months, I can look for work related to my degree?

Arturas Mickus: You certainly can, but here’s the good news: any paid employment qualifies for a work permit extension—even if it’s not in your field.

Student: Really? So even driving, hospitality, or cleaning jobs count?

Arturas Mickus: Exactly. Once you land any job, your temporary residence permit (TRP) can be renewed under a work‑visa basis. That keeps you in Lithuania longer.

Student: That’s reassuring. And what about staying longer term—could I eventually get permanent residency?

Arturas Mickus: Yes. After 3 to 5 years on a work visa, you can apply for permanent residency (PR) in Lithuania.

3 years if you earn a gross salary over €3,165 per month, or if you hold a “skilled” position with a wage above €2,500.
5 years if your occupation isn’t on the official Skilled Occupation List.

Student: What exactly counts as a “skilled job”?

Arturas Mickus: The Lithuanian government maintains a Skilled Occupation List. It includes IT specialists, engineers, health professionals, and similar roles. If your job title appears there, you benefit from the shorter PR timeline.
(You can find the full list on the Migration Department’s website.)

Student: Suppose my field isn’t on that list. Does that mean a full five years?

Arturas Mickus: Correct—five years on a regular work permit before you’re eligible for PR.

Student: Are there any alternative routes—say, through entrepreneurship?

Arturas Mickus: Absolutely. You can start or acquire a business in Lithuania:

Open your own company and employ at least two full‑time Lithuanian residents.
As a managing director earning over €3,165 gross per month, you may qualify for an EU Blue Card.
With a Blue Card, you’ll be eligible for PR after 3 years.

Student: You may be thinking, ‘I’ve got the funds to invest, but I don’t know the first thing about running a company—what are my options?

Arturas Mickus: No problem. We offer full services management solutions —from purchasing an existing company to hands‑on management on your behalf.

Student: What’s the minimum investment if I want to set something up myself?

Arturas Mickus: The standard requirement is €28,000 in company capital. However, if you team up with one or two other investors, each of you needs only €14,000, provided you hold at least 33% ownership.

Student: That all sounds exciting—and a bit daunting!

Arturas Mickus: It can seem like a lot of steps, but that’s precisely why our free consultation exists. We’ll map out your ideal pathway—whether it’s through employment or entrepreneurship—to secure your long‑term stay and eventual PR in Lithuania.

Student: Thank you. I feel much more confident about my next moves.

Arturas Mickus: You’re welcome. Whenever you’re ready, just reach out, and we’ll get started on your personalized plan!