Student work rights in Lithuania
Rules for working while studying in Lithuania, including work limits, internships, tax steps and post-study routes where covered by the guide.
Read the complete Lithuania study abroad guide.
Part-time Jobs
Lithuania changed student work rules on 22 May 2026. For students with newly issued study permits covered by the reform, first- and second-year bachelor's students may work no more than 20 hours per week; the restriction does not count the institution's vacation periods or required practical training.
Foreign students in the third and fourth bachelor years, master's programmes, doctoral studies and residency programmes may work up to 40 hours per week. That makes Lithuania relatively flexible at advanced stages, but it is not accurate to describe all students as having no hour cap.
Keep employment compatible with full-time study and check the conditions attached to your own residence permit, especially if your permit predates the May 2026 reform.
Source: https://migracija.lrv.lt/lt/naujienos/aktualiausi-uzsienieciu-teisines-padeties-istatymo-pasikeitimai-mGl/
Post-study Work
After completing a Lithuanian higher-education qualification, a graduate can apply for a temporary residence permit for up to 12 months for job search and self-employment. The graduate permit also allows work under the rules applicable to that status, and graduates can move onto an employment-based residence permit when they secure the appropriate job.
Current university guidance also notes that the final study TRP is commonly issued for a period extending up to six months beyond the study period, giving time to complete the transition. The Migration Department's current fee schedule provides a one-time general-procedure fee exemption for foreigners who have completed studies or research in Lithuania, subject to the stated conditions.
Use MIGRIS for the application and start before the study-based status expires rather than relying on the fact that graduates may have a longer statutory window from the qualification date in some circumstances.
Source: https://migracija.lrv.lt/en/news/after-completing-their-studies-foreigners-will-be-able-not-only-to-look-for-a-job-but-also-to-start-working/
Common questions
What should international students know about work in Lithuania?
From 22 May 2026: bachelor years 1-2 up to 20h/week; later bachelor years, master, doctoral and residency students up to 40h/week.
What should international students know about post study in Lithuania?
Graduates can apply for a separate 12-month TRP for job search and self-employment.