Can I bring my spouse and minor children with me based on the obtained work permit?

Bringing Your Family to Lithuania on a Work Permit

If you have obtained a work permit in Lithuania and wish to bring your spouse and minor children to live with you, it is generally possible, but it involves a separate process governed by Lithuanian immigration laws. Here’s a detailed explanation:

Legal Framework

The primary legal framework governing the entry and residence of foreigners in Lithuania is the Law on the Legal Status of Aliens. Family reunification is a recognized basis for granting a temporary residence permit.

  • Law on the Legal Status of Aliens: This law outlines the conditions under which family members can join a foreign national residing in Lithuania.

Conditions for Family Reunification

To bring your spouse and minor children, you must meet certain conditions:

  • Valid Residence Permit: You must hold a valid temporary residence permit (issued based on your work permit) or a permanent residence permit.
  • Sufficient Means of Subsistence: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support your family members without needing social assistance from the Lithuanian government.
  • Adequate Accommodation: You need to provide proof that you have suitable accommodation for your family that meets the required health and safety standards.
  • Health Insurance: You must ensure that your family members have health insurance coverage valid in Lithuania.
  • Marriage/Parental Relationship: You must provide evidence of your marriage (marriage certificate) and the children’s birth certificates to prove the familial relationship. These documents may need to be translated and apostilled or legalized, depending on the country of origin.

Application Process

Your family members will need to apply for a temporary residence permit based on family reunification. The application process generally involves the following steps:

  • Application Submission: The application can be submitted either in person at the Migration Department in Lithuania or through a Lithuanian embassy or consulate abroad.
  • Required Documents: The following documents are typically required:
    • Application form
    • Passport copies
    • Marriage certificate (for spouse)
    • Birth certificates of children
    • Your residence permit copy
    • Proof of sufficient financial means (your employment contract, salary slips, bank statements)
    • Proof of accommodation (lease agreement or property ownership documents)
    • Health insurance
    • Criminal record certificate (may be required)
  • Processing Time: The processing time for a temporary residence permit can vary, but it usually takes between 2 to 4 months.
  • Visa Requirements: Depending on your family members’ nationality, they may need to obtain a visa to enter Lithuania while the residence permit application is being processed.

Important Considerations

  • Translations and Legalization: All foreign documents must be translated into Lithuanian and, depending on the country of origin, may need to be apostilled or legalized.
  • Financial Requirements: The specific amount of financial resources required may vary, so it is advisable to check the latest requirements with the Migration Department.
  • Health Insurance: Ensure that the health insurance policy covers the necessary medical expenses in Lithuania.
  • Changes in Circumstances: Any changes in your employment or residence status should be reported to the Migration Department, as they may affect your family members’ residence permits.

Where to Apply and Get More Information

The primary authority responsible for handling immigration matters in Lithuania is the Migration Department under the Ministry of Interior.

  • Migration Department of Lithuania: You can find detailed information about the application process, required documents, and any updates to the regulations on their official website.

Disclaimer: Immigration laws and regulations can change, so it is important to verify the most current information with the Migration Department of Lithuania or consult with an immigration lawyer.

Origin: https://driver-work.com/docs/can-i-bring-my-spouse-and-minor-children-with-me-based-on-the-obtained-work-permit-2/