Reclaim your Lithuanian Heritage and obtain EU citizenship through your Ancestors
Lithuania offers a citizenship by descent program that allows individuals with Lithuanian ancestry to reclaim their heritage and secure European Union citizenship. If you have a Lithuanian parent or grandparent who maintained their Lithuanian citizenship, you may be eligible to join thousands of descendants worldwide who have successfully obtained Lithuanian citizenship and EU passports.
Lithuanian citizenship by descent provides you with a gateway to the European Union, granting you the right to live, work, study, and retire anywhere across the EU's 27 member states, plus Switzerland. With a Lithuanian passport offering visa-free access to 182 destinations worldwide, representing 84% global reach, this citizenship represents one of the most valuable travel documents available.
Lithuania's citizenship program honors the millions of Lithuanians who emigrated throughout the 20th century, particularly during Soviet occupation, the independence movements, and economic transitions. Whether your ancestor left during the interwar period, fled Soviet rule, or emigrated after independence, this pathway offers a meaningful way to reconnect with your Lithuanian roots while securing substantial practical benefits.
CitizenX expertly handles your entire citizenship by descent application, simplifying complex Lithuanian laws and helping you prove your lineage by consulting various Lithuanian institutions and archives. With processing completed in approximately 2 months and our comprehensive $15,000 service managing the entire process, Lithuanian citizenship represents one of the fastest pathways to EU citizenship available.
Lithuanian Citizenship by Descent at a Glance
Lithuanian Citizenship by Descent
Topic
Details
Eligibility
Must have Lithuanian ancestor (parent or grandparent) who was Lithuanian citizen
Ancestor must not have lost their Lithuanian citizenship
Direct lineal descent required
Proof of lineage and citizenship required
Key Benefits
182 visa-free destinations (84% world access)
EU citizenship with right to live and work across 27 EU countries + Switzerland
Pass citizenship to future generations
Beautiful Baltic location and growing economy
Strategic position in Northern Europe
Processing Time
Approximately 2 months - one of the fastest EU citizenship programs
Physical Presence
No presence required in Lithuania
Language Requirement
None for citizenship by descent
CitizenX Service Fee
$15,000 (comprehensive end-to-end service)
Dual Citizenship
IMPORTANT RESTRICTION: You can keep existing citizenships when obtaining Lithuanian citizenship by descent, BUT you cannot acquire any NEW citizenship after without renouncing Lithuanian citizenship
Required Documents
Birth certificates (applicant and ancestors)
Proof of ancestor's Lithuanian citizenship
Marriage certificates (if applicable)
Death certificates (for deceased ancestors)
Complete generational chain documentation
Legal Basis
Lithuanian citizenship law on restoration of citizenship
What Is Lithuanian Citizenship by Descent?
Lithuanian citizenship by descent allows individuals to claim Lithuanian citizenship based on their lineage from Lithuanian ancestors. This pathway represents Lithuania's commitment to maintaining connections with its global diaspora, estimated at over 1 million people worldwide who claim Lithuanian ancestry, compared to Lithuania's current population of 2.8 million.
The Lithuanian citizenship restoration program is rooted in recognizing the trauma and displacement caused by Soviet occupation, World War II, and the subsequent forced emigration of hundreds of thousands of Lithuanians. The program allows descendants of Lithuanian citizens to "restore" or reclaim citizenship that was lost through historical circumstances beyond their control.
What makes Lithuanian citizenship by descent particularly attractive is its remarkably fast processing time, approximately 2 months from application to approval, making it one of the quickest pathways to EU citizenship available. This efficiency reflects Lithuania's streamlined bureaucratic processes and commitment to reconnecting with its diaspora.
Lithuania's complex 20th-century history shaped its approach to citizenship. Understanding this history is essential to determining eligibility and navigating the application process.
Pre-1918: Lithuanian lands were part of the Russian Empire
1918-1940: Independent Republic of Lithuania (First Republic)
February 16, 1918: Lithuania declared independence
Democratic republic with its own citizenship laws
Period of Lithuanian statehood and culture
1940-1941: First Soviet Occupation
June 1940: Soviet Union occupied Lithuania
Mass deportations to Siberia
Lithuania became Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic
1941-1944: Nazi German Occupation
Devastation of Lithuanian Jewish community (Holocaust)
Continued resistance and suffering
1944-1990: Soviet Occupation (Second Period)
Lithuania forcibly incorporated into Soviet Union
Mass deportations, executions, partisan resistance
Lithuanian citizenship subsumed under Soviet citizenship
Emigration heavily restricted
March 11, 1990: Lithuania restored independence
First Soviet republic to declare independence
Beginning of modern Lithuanian Republic
Restoration of Lithuanian citizenship separate from Soviet/Russian
2004: Lithuania joined the European Union
Lithuanian citizenship became EU citizenship
Full benefits of EU membership
Critical Dual Citizenship Restriction
IMPORTANT: Lithuania has a unique and restrictive approach to dual citizenship that applicants must understand before applying:
What the Restriction Means
You CAN keep existing citizenships:
When you obtain Lithuanian citizenship by descent, you are permitted to retain any citizenships you already hold at the moment of obtaining Lithuanian citizenship
For example, if you are a U.S. citizen and obtain Lithuanian citizenship, you can keep your U.S. citizenship
You CANNOT acquire new citizenships:
After obtaining Lithuanian citizenship, you cannot acquire citizenship of any other country without renouncing your Lithuanian citizenship
If you later become a citizen of another country, Lithuanian law considers you to have automatically lost your Lithuanian citizenship
Practical Implications
Before Applying: Consider whether you might want to obtain citizenship in other countries in the future. If you plan to pursue additional citizenships, you should complete those first before applying for Lithuanian citizenship.
After Obtaining Lithuanian Citizenship:
You must choose between keeping Lithuanian citizenship OR acquiring new citizenship in another country
You cannot have both Lithuanian citizenship and citizenship acquired after obtaining Lithuanian citizenship
Marriage to a foreign national does not automatically grant you their citizenship, but if you voluntarily naturalize in their country, you would lose Lithuanian citizenship
Exceptions and Clarifications
Exceptions Where You Can Keep Lithuanian Citizenship:
If you acquire citizenship of an EU member state or NATO member state through certain specific circumstances, there may be exceptions
Children born to Lithuanian citizens automatically have Lithuanian citizenship regardless of where born
Recent legislative changes have created some exceptions, but they are limited
Important: The restrictive nature of Lithuanian dual citizenship is a significant consideration. Many applicants find the benefits of EU citizenship outweigh the restriction, but it's essential to make an informed decision.
Why This Restriction Exists
Lithuania's restrictive approach to dual citizenship reflects:
Concern about preserving Lithuanian national identity
Historical experience with occupation and loss of sovereignty
Desire to maintain strong ties between citizens and the state
Political considerations around loyalty and citizenship
However, Lithuania recognizes that descendants of Lithuanian emigrants deserve the right to reclaim their heritage, which is why citizenship by descent is permitted with the caveat that existing citizenships can be retained.
Who Qualifies for Lithuanian Citizenship by Descent?
To qualify for Lithuanian citizenship by descent, you must establish a direct lineal connection to a Lithuanian ancestor who was a Lithuanian citizen and did not lose their citizenship.
Eligible Descendants
Lithuanian citizenship by descent is available to:
Children of Lithuanian citizens
Grandchildren of Lithuanian citizens
Potentially more distant descendants in certain circumstances, though this is less common
The specific generational limits depend on when your ancestor left Lithuania and their citizenship status at various historical periods.
Qualifying Ancestor Requirements
Your Lithuanian ancestor must meet the following conditions:
Was a Lithuanian Citizen
Your ancestor must have been a citizen of Lithuania (the Republic of Lithuania). This typically means:
They were born in Lithuania
They resided in Lithuania and held Lithuanian citizenship
They were citizens during the independent Lithuanian Republic (1918-1940) or after 1990
Did Not Lose Lithuanian Citizenship
Your ancestor must not have lost their Lithuanian citizenship through:
Voluntary renunciation
Acquisition of foreign citizenship (during periods when this caused automatic loss)
Other legal means of citizenship termination
Maintained Citizenship Until Transmission
The citizenship must have been maintained in an unbroken chain from your ancestor through each generation to you.
Understanding Lithuanian Citizenship Through Historical Periods
The determination of whether your ancestor was a Lithuanian citizen depends heavily on when they lived in Lithuania:
1918-1940 (First Republic): If your ancestor was a citizen of the independent Republic of Lithuania during this period, this is the most straightforward path to citizenship by descent.
1940-1990 (Soviet Period): During Soviet occupation, Lithuania's legal position was complex:
Lithuania maintained that Soviet occupation was illegal
Many Lithuanians were forced to take Soviet citizenship
Lithuanians who fled during this period often retained their claim to Lithuanian citizenship in exile
Post-1990 Lithuania recognized the continuity of citizenship for those who fled
Post-1990 (Independent Lithuania): After restoration of independence, Lithuanian citizenship law was reestablished. Those who held citizenship before 1940 and their descendants could restore citizenship.
Direct Lineal Descent Required
You must be connected to your Lithuanian ancestor through direct lineal descent:
Parent to child relationships
No citizenship transmission through siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, or other collateral relatives
Adopted individuals may qualify if adopted as minors under certain circumstances
How Lithuanian Citizenship Can Be Lost
Understanding how Lithuanian citizenship can be lost is crucial for determining eligibility:
Voluntary Renunciation
Lithuanian citizenship is lost through:
Formal renunciation before Lithuanian authorities
Written application to renounce citizenship
Official approval and processing
Acquisition of Foreign Citizenship (Historical Periods)
During Soviet Period: The rules were complex and often unclear due to Soviet occupation.
Post-1990: Acquiring citizenship of a non-EU, non-NATO country after obtaining Lithuanian citizenship results in automatic loss of Lithuanian citizenship (with limited exceptions).
Important: If your ancestor acquired foreign citizenship while Lithuanian citizenship law prohibited dual citizenship, they may have lost Lithuanian citizenship. However, their descendants may still be able to restore citizenship through special provisions.
What Generally Does NOT Cause Loss (For Emigrants)
For Lithuanian emigrants and their descendants:
Fleeing Soviet occupation did not cause loss of citizenship claim
Living abroad for extended periods
Never visiting Lithuania
Being forced to take Soviet citizenship (under duress during occupation)
Post-independence Lithuania took a generous approach to recognizing citizenship claims of those who fled Soviet rule.
Modern Dual Citizenship Loss
Critical: Under current law, if you obtain Lithuanian citizenship by descent and then acquire citizenship of another country (with limited exceptions for EU/NATO countries), you automatically lose your Lithuanian citizenship. This is the key restriction applicants must understand.
Lithuanian Emigration History
Why Lithuania Has a Significant Diaspora
Lithuania experienced massive emigration and displacement throughout the 20th century, creating a global diaspora estimated at over 1 million people.
Major Lithuanian Emigration Waves
Late 19th/Early 20th Century (1868-1914):
Economic emigration from Lithuanian lands (then part of Russian Empire) to:
United States - Particularly Pennsylvania, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, Maryland (Lithuanian communities in Chicago, Baltimore, Philadelphia, Boston)
South America - Argentina, Brazil (smaller communities)
Canada - Ontario, Quebec
Estimated 300,000-400,000 Lithuanians emigrated during this period seeking economic opportunities and fleeing Russification policies.
Interwar Period (1918-1940):
After independence, some emigration continued but was less intense. The independent Republic of Lithuania was relatively stable during this period.
World War II and Soviet Occupation (1940-1944, 1944-1953):
Massive displacement and emigration:
1940-1941: First Soviet occupation triggered initial fleeing
1941-1944: Nazi occupation devastated Lithuanian Jewish community (Holocaust)
1944-1953: Second Soviet occupation triggered largest emigration wave
Estimated 60,000-70,000 Lithuanians fled to the West
Settled primarily in United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Germany
These were often educated elites, political leaders, intellectuals fleeing communism
Mass Deportations: Over 130,000 Lithuanians deported to Siberia by Soviets
Soviet Period (1953-1990):
Emigration was heavily restricted under Soviet rule:
Limited legal emigration (mostly Jews allowed to leave)
Defections and illegal departures (rare but significant)
Lithuanian communities in West maintained strong identity
Post-Independence (1990-2004):
After independence, some emigration continued:
Economic emigration to Western Europe and North America
Return migration also occurred
Post-EU Accession (2004-Present):
Large-scale labor migration to Western Europe (UK, Ireland, Germany, Norway, Sweden)
Estimated 300,000-500,000 Lithuanians now living in other EU countries
Economic emigration driven by wage differentials and opportunities
Global Lithuanian Diaspora
Estimated Diaspora: Over 1 million people of Lithuanian descent worldwide (Lithuania's population: 2.8 million)
Major Lithuanian Communities:
North America:
United States: 650,000+ Lithuanian Americans (Chicago has one of largest communities)
Birth Certificate: Showing birth in Lithuania or Lithuanian territory
Lithuanian Citizenship Documents:
Lithuanian passport (from First Republic 1918-1940 or post-1990)
Lithuanian identity documents
Citizenship certificates
Military service records
Any official documents proving Lithuanian citizenship
Proof of Departure/Emigration:
Immigration records from destination country
Ship manifests or passenger lists
Refugee documents (particularly for WWII-era emigrants)
Naturalization records (if applicable)
Documents showing when and why ancestor left Lithuania
Death Certificate (if ancestor deceased):
Showing date and place of death
Helps establish timeline of citizenship
Generational Chain Documents
Complete documentation connecting each generation from your ancestor to you:
If Claiming Through Grandparent:
Your parent's birth certificate
Your parent's marriage certificate (if applicable)
Your grandparent's marriage certificate (if applicable)
If Claiming Through Parent:
Your birth certificate showing parent
Parent's citizenship documentation
Each Generation: All birth certificates, marriage certificates, and relevant documents for each link in the chain must be provided.
Document Requirements
Authenticity:
Original documents or certified copies
Foreign documents must be apostilled or legalized
All documents must be officially translated into Lithuanian by certified translators
Currency:
Documents should be as recent as possible where applicable
Some documents may need to be current (issued recently)
Format:
Proper apostille stamps
Certified translations with translator credentials
Clear, legible copies
How to Apply for Lithuanian Citizenship by Descent with CitizenX
CitizenX expertly handles your entire citizenship by descent application, simplifying complex Lithuanian laws and helping you prove your lineage by consulting various Lithuanian institutions and archives, delivering your Lithuanian passport in approximately 2 months.
Step 1: Eligibility Assessment and Consultation
Initial Evaluation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive eligibility assessment. CitizenX's Lithuanian citizenship experts will:
Review your family history and Lithuanian ancestry
Identify your qualifying Lithuanian ancestor(s)
Determine when your ancestor left Lithuania
Assess whether your ancestor maintained Lithuanian citizenship
Evaluate historical period and legal framework applicable to your case
Verify you understand dual citizenship restrictions
Provide realistic timeline expectations (approximately 2 months processing)
Deliver complete cost breakdown
Critical Dual Citizenship Discussion
We ensure you fully understand:
That you can keep existing citizenships when obtaining Lithuanian citizenship
That you cannot acquire new citizenships after without losing Lithuanian citizenship
Whether this restriction affects your future plans
Whether Lithuanian citizenship is right for your circumstances
Preliminary Research
CitizenX conducts initial research to:
Locate your ancestor in Lithuanian records
Identify which archives likely hold relevant documents
Assess documentation availability
Determine potential challenges
Step 2: Document Collection and Lithuanian Archival Research
Lithuanian Archival Research
CitizenX's team accesses Lithuanian archives and institutions to locate your ancestor's documents:
Archives and Offices We Access:
Lithuanian State Historical Archives (Lietuvos valstybÄ—s istorijos archyvas)
Lithuanian Central State Archives (Lietuvos centrinis valstybÄ—s archyvas)
Civil Registry Offices throughout Lithuania
Church Archives (Catholic, Lutheran, Orthodox, Jewish)
Municipal Archives in cities and towns across Lithuania
Migration Department records
Documents We Search For:
Lithuanian birth certificates
Lithuanian citizenship documents from First Republic (1918-1940)
Identity documents
Military records
School records
Emigration records
Property records
Any documentation proving Lithuanian citizenship
Why Professional Research Is Essential:
Lithuanian bureaucracy can be complex
Records scattered across multiple archives
Lithuanian language proficiency required
Understanding of historical record-keeping systems
Knowledge of which archives hold specific records
Relationships with Lithuanian archivists
Foreign Document Collection
Simultaneously, we assist you in gathering documents from your country:
Your personal documents (passport, birth certificate)
Parents' and grandparents' vital records
Immigration records from destination country
Naturalization records (if applicable)
Refugee documentation (particularly for WWII-era emigrants)
Any family documents supporting your claim
Step 3: Understanding Historical Citizenship Status
Critical Analysis Phase
CitizenX's legal experts analyze your ancestor's citizenship status through various historical periods:
For WWII-Era Emigrants:
Determining whether they were citizens of First Republic (1918-1940)
Understanding their legal status during Soviet occupation
Assessing whether they retained citizenship claim in exile
Analyzing post-1990 restoration provisions
For Earlier Emigrants:
Verifying citizenship during First Republic
Understanding Russian Empire period (pre-1918)
Determining when Lithuanian citizenship was established for your family line
For Later Emigrants:
Assessing Soviet-period status
Understanding post-independence emigration
Verifying citizenship maintenance
This analysis is crucial because Lithuanian citizenship law has changed dramatically through different historical periods.
Step 4: Document Authentication and Translation
Apostille and Legalization:
All foreign documents must be properly authenticated:
Apostille for Hague Convention countries
Consular legalization for other countries
We coordinate obtaining proper authentication
Official Lithuanian Translation:
All documents not in Lithuanian must be officially translated:
Certified Lithuanian translators
Translations must include official stamps and certifications
Translations must be faithful to original documents
We coordinate with qualified Lithuanian translation services
Quality Control:
Verification all documents properly apostilled/legalized
Ensuring translations complete and accurate
Confirming all certifications present
Organizing documents in proper format
Step 5: Application Preparation
Comprehensive Application Package
CitizenX prepares your complete Lithuanian citizenship application:
Required Forms:
Citizenship application forms (in Lithuanian)
All forms properly completed and signed
Declarations and affidavits as required
Complete Documentation Package:
All personal documents (apostilled and translated)
Lithuanian citizenship automatically passes to your children:
Children Born After Citizenship: Children born after you obtain Lithuanian citizenship are automatically Lithuanian citizens by birth, regardless of where they're born.
Children Born Before Citizenship: Children born before you obtained citizenship can apply for Lithuanian citizenship as your descendants once your citizenship is confirmed.
Multi-Generational Asset: Lithuanian citizenship creates lasting value for your family, providing EU citizenship options for generations.
The Dual Citizenship Restriction - Ongoing Implications
Remember the Critical Rule:
You can keep citizenships you had when you obtained Lithuanian citizenship
You CANNOT acquire new citizenships after obtaining Lithuanian citizenship without losing it
Practical Scenarios:
Scenario 1: Marriage to Foreign National If you marry someone from another country after obtaining Lithuanian citizenship:
You don't automatically get their citizenship
If you voluntarily naturalize in their country, you lose Lithuanian citizenship
Plan accordingly
Scenario 2: Career Opportunities Requiring Different Citizenship If a job opportunity requires citizenship of another country:
You must choose between Lithuanian citizenship and the new opportunity
This is a real limitation to consider before applying
Scenario 3: Children's Citizenship
Your children born after you obtain Lithuanian citizenship are automatically Lithuanian citizens
They inherit the same dual citizenship restriction
This affects future generations
Why People Still Choose Lithuanian Citizenship Despite Restriction:
EU citizenship benefits outweigh restriction for many
No plans to acquire additional citizenships
Value connection to Lithuanian heritage
Fast processing time
Strong passport and mobility
Most people don't need multiple citizenships
Why Choose CitizenX for Your Lithuanian Citizenship by Descent Application?
Expert Navigation of Complex Lithuanian History
Lithuanian citizenship by descent involves understanding:
Complex 20th-century history (independence, Soviet occupation, restoration)
Different citizenship regimes across historical periods
When and how Lithuanian citizenship was maintained or lost
Implications of WWII-era emigration
Soviet-period citizenship status
CitizenX's team specializes in Lithuanian citizenship law and historical analysis.
Lithuanian Archival Research Expertise
Access to Lithuanian Archives:
CitizenX maintains relationships with:
Lithuanian State Historical Archives
Lithuanian Central State Archives
Civil registry offices throughout Lithuania
Church archives
Migration Department
Language and Cultural Knowledge:
Lithuanian-speaking staff
Understanding of Lithuanian administrative systems
Knowledge of Lithuanian record-keeping practices
Relationships with Lithuanian officials
Historical Research Skills:
Experience with First Republic (1918-1940) records
Understanding of Soviet-era documentation
Knowledge of WWII-era refugee documents
Expertise in tracking Lithuanian emigrants
Comprehensive Document Procurement
From Lithuania:
Birth certificates from Lithuanian registries
Citizenship documents from various historical periods
Church records
Emigration records
From Abroad:
Immigration records from destination countries
Refugee documentation
Naturalization records
WWII-era displacement documents
Fastest Processing Time in EU
Approximately 2-Month Government Processing:
Lithuania's remarkably fast processing makes it one of the quickest paths to EU citizenship. CitizenX:
Ensures application is perfect to avoid delays
Monitors processing closely
Responds immediately to any requests
Maximizes efficiency throughout
Clear Dual Citizenship Guidance
Informed Decision-Making:
We ensure you fully understand:
What the dual citizenship restriction means
How it might affect your future
Whether Lithuanian citizenship is right for you
Alternatives if restriction is problematic
We provide honest, transparent guidance so you make the best decision for your circumstances.
End-to-End Service
From eligibility assessment through passport acquisition:
Complete archival research
Document procurement and preparation
Application submission
Processing monitoring
Passport assistance
All in approximately 5-6 months total
Proven Track Record
CitizenX has successfully helped thousands obtain European citizenship through descent programs. Our Lithuanian citizenship expertise ensures your application meets all requirements.
Common Challenges and How CitizenX Addresses Them
Challenge: Determining Citizenship Status During Soviet Period
The Issue:
Lithuanians who lived through Soviet occupation (1940-1990) had complex citizenship status. Determining whether they maintained Lithuanian citizenship claim is often unclear.
CitizenX Solution:
Expert analysis of historical citizenship laws
Understanding of how Lithuanian government views Soviet-era status
Research into specific circumstances of emigration
Legal arguments supporting citizenship claims for WWII-era refugees
Documentation of forced emigration vs. voluntary departure
Challenge: Missing Lithuanian Documents from First Republic
The Issue:
Documents from 1918-1940 period may be difficult to locate, especially if ancestor left during or shortly after WWII when records were disrupted.
CitizenX Solution:
Access to Lithuanian State Historical Archives
Relationships with archivists specializing in First Republic period
Alternative documentation strategies (church records, military records)
Understanding of which archives likely hold specific records
Reconstruction from multiple sources when primary documents unavailable
Challenge: WWII-Era Refugee Documentation
The Issue:
Many Lithuanian emigrants from 1940s were refugees fleeing Soviet occupation. Standard emigration documentation may not exist.
CitizenX Solution:
Expertise in refugee documentation from WWII era
Access to displaced persons records
Understanding of refugee camp documentation
Immigration records from destination countries
Testimony and affidavits from Lithuanian communities
The dual citizenship restriction is unique and can be confusing. Applicants need to fully understand before proceeding.
CitizenX Solution:
Clear, honest explanation of restriction
Discussion of how it might affect individual circumstances
Comparison with other EU citizenship programs
Helping applicants make informed decisions
Ensuring no surprises after obtaining citizenship
Challenge: Name Changes and Spelling Variations
The Issue:
Lithuanian names were often altered when emigrating (Lithuanized names changed to English or other languages), creating discrepancies between Lithuanian records and foreign documents.
CitizenX Solution:
Comprehensive research linking original Lithuanian names to changed names
Immigration records often show both versions
Legal documentation explaining name variations
Supporting narrative connecting name changes to emigration
Understanding of common Lithuanian naming patterns
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get Lithuanian citizenship through my grandparents?
Yes, you can obtain Lithuanian citizenship through your grandparents, provided they were Lithuanian citizens who did not lose their citizenship. You'll need to prove the unbroken generational chain from your grandparent through your parent to you, including evidence that citizenship was maintained throughout.
What if I already have dual citizenship from other countries?
You can keep all existing citizenships when you obtain Lithuanian citizenship by descent. The restriction only applies to acquiring NEW citizenships after you become Lithuanian. Your existing multiple citizenships are protected.
Do I need to speak Lithuanian to get citizenship by descent?
No, there is no language requirement for Lithuanian citizenship by descent. Unlike naturalization programs requiring Lithuanian language proficiency, descent-based citizenship is a recognition of your heritage. CitizenX handles all Lithuanian-language communications with authorities.
How long does the Lithuanian citizenship process actually take?
Lithuanian citizenship by descent has one of the fastest processing times in the EU:
Government processing: approximately 2 months
Total timeline including document collection: 5-6 months
This is exceptionally fast compared to most EU programs (which often take 12-24+ months)
Can I hold dual citizenship with Lithuania?
Yes, but with an important restriction:
You can KEEP any citizenships you have when you obtain Lithuanian citizenship
You CANNOT acquire NEW citizenships after without losing Lithuanian citizenship
Limited exceptions exist for some EU/NATO countries
This is a critical consideration before applying
What happens if I later acquire citizenship of another country?
If you acquire citizenship of another country after obtaining Lithuanian citizenship (with limited exceptions), you will automatically lose your Lithuanian citizenship under Lithuanian law. This is the key restriction you must understand before applying.
What if my ancestor left Lithuania during Soviet occupation?
Many Lithuanians fled during Soviet occupation (1940-1990), particularly after WWII. Lithuania recognizes that these emigrants maintained their claim to Lithuanian citizenship even if forced to take Soviet citizenship. Your citizenship application would be evaluated based on:
When they left
Whether they were citizens before Soviet occupation
Their status as political refugees or displaced persons
Post-independence restoration provisions
Do I need to visit Lithuania to apply?
No, the process can be handled remotely. Applications can be submitted through Lithuanian embassies or consulates in your country of residence. CitizenX coordinates the entire process without requiring you to visit Lithuania.
What if my ancestor was born in territory that's now Belarus, Poland, or Russia?
Lithuania's historical borders were different from today. Some areas that were Lithuanian are now in Belarus, Poland, or Russia (particularly Vilnius region, which changed hands multiple times). If your ancestor was born in these areas during periods when they were Lithuanian territory and held Lithuanian citizenship, you may still qualify. CitizenX can analyze your specific situation.
Will my children automatically become Lithuanian citizens?
Children born after you obtain Lithuanian citizenship are automatically Lithuanian citizens by birth, regardless of where they're born. Children born before you obtained citizenship can apply for Lithuanian citizenship as your descendants once your citizenship is confirmed.
How much does Lithuanian citizenship by descent cost?
CitizenX's service fee is $15,000, which includes:
Complete eligibility assessment
Lithuanian archival research and document procurement
Foreign document collection assistance
Document authentication, apostille, and translation
Application preparation and submission
Support through ~2 month processing
Lithuanian passport assistance
Government fees are additional but minimal (typically under $500 total).
What's the benefit of Lithuanian citizenship if I already have U.S./Canadian/Australian citizenship?
Lithuanian citizenship provides:
EU citizenship (right to live/work in 27 EU countries)
Visa-free access to additional countries
EU healthcare and education access
Business opportunities throughout EU
Connection to Lithuanian heritage
Backup option for global mobility
Strategic European base
Is Lithuanian citizenship worth it given the dual citizenship restriction?
This depends on your circumstances:
Consider Lithuanian citizenship if:
You don't plan to acquire additional citizenships
EU citizenship benefits are valuable to you
You want connection to Lithuanian heritage
You value fast processing and strong passport
The restriction doesn't affect your future plans
Consider alternatives if:
You might need other citizenships for career/family
You want maximum flexibility for future citizenships
The restriction is too limiting for your situation
CitizenX helps you evaluate whether Lithuanian citizenship is right for you.
Can the dual citizenship restriction be changed in the future?
Lithuania has been discussing potential changes to dual citizenship laws, and there have been some limited expansions of exceptions (particularly for EU/NATO countries). However, we cannot predict future legislative changes. You should make your decision based on current law, not hoped-for future changes.
