Planning to study in Lithuania? Whether you’re aiming for a bachelor’s, master’s, or even a PhD, one crucial step for non-EU students is securing the right visa. But here’s something many students miss: you won’t just apply for a “student visa” you’ll apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) instead. This guide will walk you through the Lithuania study visa application for 2025, explain why a TRP is essential, and show you how to make your application successful with a little help from Pumpkin Abroad Consulting.
Why Lithuania Requires a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) for Full-Time Students
Unlike some countries that issue short-term study visas, Lithuania requires full-time international students (outside the EU/EEA) to apply for a Temporary Residence Permit. This TRP allows you to stay in Lithuania for longer than 90 days and is typically valid for 1–2 years, depending on your program duration.
You must start this process after receiving your official university admission letter, which is a prerequisite for the application.
Lithuania Study Visa vs. Temporary Residence Permit: What’s the Difference?
- – National Visa (D-type visa): This allows you to enter Lithuania and stay for up to 12 months. Some students use this as a short-term solution if they’re still waiting on TRP approval. However, whether or not you can get this is dependent on several factors, and the visa officer is the best person to advise you on this.
- – Temporary Residence Permit (TRP): This is the long-term document that legally allows you to live, study, and work in Lithuania during your studies.
⚠️ If your course duration is longer than 1 year, you must apply for the TRP, not just a D visa. You can enter Lithuania with a D visa while your TRP is being processed. However, whether or not you can get the D visa may depend on several factors.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Lithuania Study TRP in 2025
1. 1. Receive Your University Admission Letter
Before anything else, make sure you have your official letter of admission from a recognized Lithuanian institution like SMK, KTU, or VILNIUS TECH.
2. 2. Prepare Your Required Documents
To apply for a Lithuania student TRP, you’ll need:
- – Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond your stay)
- – Recent passport-sized photos
- – Letter of admission from a Lithuanian university
- – Proof of sufficient financial means (0.5 minimum wage per month x duration of TRP)
- – Proof of accommodation in Lithuania
- – Health insurance valid in Lithuania and the Schengen Area
- – Application form (submitted online)
- – Proof of payment for state fees (TRP application fee is usually €160-€320)
Make sure all documents are either in English or Lithuanian, and officially translated if needed.
3. 3. Submit the Application Online
What’s different with the TRP application and the Lithuania Study Visa is the process of application. For the TRP, you need to go to the Lithuanian Migration Information System (MIGRIS):
https://www.migracija.lt/
You must register your application online first, then schedule an appointment at your nearest Lithuanian embassy or migration office (if already in Lithuania).
4. 4. Attend the Appointment
Bring your printed application and original documents to your appointment. You may also be required to give biometrics and attend a brief interview. The interview is usually different from the Lithuania study visa application as once you have a mediation number from the university, most of the background checks would have been passed. You just need to make sure you know your application as well in case they ask you questions.
5. 5. Wait for Approval
The decision timeline can vary but usually takes 2–3 months, so apply as early as possible. Some students apply for a Lithuania study visa (D visa) first, travel to Lithuania, and complete their TRP application from within the country. But again, this depends on whether you can actually do this so you need to make an inquiry at your local embassy.
Can I Work with a Lithuania Student TRP?
Yes! With a valid TRP, international students can work up to 40 hours per week during studies. However, always check your specific program rules and confirm with your university.
Visa Application Tips for a Smooth Process
- – Apply early – Visa slots fill up quickly, especially before the fall semester.
- – Double-check translations – All non-English/Lithuanian documents must be translated by a certified translator.
- – Have enough proof of funds – This is a common reason for rejections. Your bank statement should clearly reflect sufficient savings or scholarships.
- – Book an accommodation in advance – A letter from a university dorm or a rental agreement is required.
- – Seek guidance – At Pumpkin Abroad, we help students submit flawless applications, including pre-checks, translations, and TRP submission support.
What Happens After You Receive Your TRP?
Once approved, you’ll receive your residence card, which serves as your official identification in Lithuania. You must register your residence in Lithuania and renew the TRP annually if your program is longer than one year.
Need Help With Your Lithuania Visa Application?
At Pumpkin Abroad Consulting, we guide international students through every step of the Lithuania visa and TRP application process. From choosing the right university to checking your documents and tracking your visa outcome, we’ve got your back.
🎯 Book a 1:1 visa consultation with our team today and get your application right the first time!