Benkunskas Urges Parliament to Quickly Pass Migration System Tightening Amendments

Vilnius Mayor V. Benkunskas is urging the Lithuanian parliament, the Seimas, to expedite the final adoption of a significant migration reform. He believes that introducing a mandatory requirement for migrants to learn the Lithuanian language will naturally strengthen the entire language learning ecosystem, increasing both demand and supply. "Language, in all its aspects, is the first key to successful cultural and social coexistence," Benkunskas stated in a municipal press release.

The proposed reform, supported by President G. Nausėda, introduces a new model for temporary work permits for foreigners. Under this system, migrants would be admitted to Lithuania to work for two years, after which they must leave the country for at least six months. This model is intended to complement the existing long-term immigration procedures without increasing the overall annual immigration quota.

Parliament has already approved the initial stage of the proposed amendments to the Law on the Legal Status of Foreigners. The bill received support from 58 parliamentarians, with 4 abstentions and 1 vote against. The Presidential Office explained that the temporary work permit model is particularly suited for foreign workers who do not intend to settle in Lithuania permanently, such as long-haul drivers or construction workers, for terms not exceeding two years.

Legislative changes would also establish a faster procedure for admitting and processing applications for these foreign workers, allowing businesses to hire them more quickly in areas where local labor is scarce. The application review process is expected to take 28 days. However, restrictions will not apply to highly qualified third-country nationals. Earlier this year, Benkunskas collected signatures in Vilnius to advocate for a stronger immigration policy in Lithuania, which included a proposal that temporary residence permits could only be extended for foreigners who achieve an A2 level of Lithuanian language proficiency.