Lithuania's Seimas to consider new foreign worker employment model

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has put forward a new model for hiring foreign workers, aiming to alleviate labor shortages in the country's economy. The proposal, which received initial parliamentary support, is designed to complement the existing long-term immigration framework without increasing the overall annual immigration quota.

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The proposed model of fixed-term work permits would be most suitable for foreign workers who do not intend to live in Lithuania permanently or for a longer period and come to the country to work, for example, as long-haul drivers, construction workers, etc. for a period not longer than 2 years.

The core of the initiative is a system of temporary work permits, intended for foreign employees who do not plan to reside in Lithuania permanently. This would primarily benefit sectors like long-haul trucking and construction, where workers are needed for periods of up to two years. The proposed legislation aims to expedite the application and review process for these workers, reducing the business waiting time to 28 days.

High-skilled professionals from third countries would not face these temporary restrictions. The President's office stated that the changes seek better migration management and solutions for the national labor deficit. A notable aspect of the proposal is the requirement for individuals applying for a Lithuanian residency permit for the third time within a decade to pass a Lithuanian language exam.

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The head of state aims for better migration management and a solution to the problem of labor shortage in the country's economy.

Furthermore, the President suggests enhancing national security vetting for foreigners by extending the minimum verification periods. The State Security Department (VSD) has reportedly backed these proposals, with the President's office incorporating earlier VSD feedback. Incoming Interior Minister Martynas Katelynas indicated that the current law on foreigners' legal status needs a comprehensive review, suggesting the President's initiative could be a catalyst for broader legislative reform and the establishment of a long-term migration strategy.

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The proposals of the head of state are supported by the State Security Department (VSD), whose earlier remarks the President's Office took into account.