Global Visas
Lithuanian citizenship by descent
For South Africans with a Lithuanian parent, grandparent or great-grandparent — and the EU citizenship that follows.
Who may be eligible
In general terms, you may be eligible if you descend from a Lithuanian citizen (parent, grandparent or great-grandparent) who left Lithuania between 1918 and 1990, and who was naturalised in another country only after 1940, or not at all.
Eligibility depends on your ancestor’s citizenship history. If the ancestor left voluntarily for another country within the Soviet Union, you may be eligible only for single citizenship; this limitation does not apply to descendants of deported persons or of those who migrated outside the USSR. Each case is assessed individually under the Lithuanian citizenship rules that apply.
How the process works
- Eligibility assessment. Send us what you know about your Lithuanian ancestor. The initial assessment is free and without obligation.
- Proof of citizenship. Archives are searched for documents proving your ancestor’s Lithuanian citizenship.
- Your documents. We give you step-by-step instructions for the civil documents to obtain from your home country, and assemble the South African papers.
- Preparation and translation. The application is prepared, and the documents translated into Lithuanian and certified.
- Submission and follow-up. The application is submitted to the Migration Department in Lithuania and followed up, so that any further information requested is provided promptly.
Common questions
Can I keep my South African citizenship?
Often, yes, if you qualify under the Lithuanian dual-citizenship exceptions. South African citizens no longer lose their citizenship automatically on acquiring another; we review your circumstances during the eligibility assessment.
My ancestor has passed away. Can I still apply?
Yes. Your ancestor need not be alive; the claim is proved from historical and archival records.
Can my children be included?
Yes, if they qualify. If your Lithuanian ancestor is a great-grandparent, your children are too many generations removed. Children born after you obtain Lithuanian citizenship are Lithuanian citizens by birth.
My family surname has changed. Is that a problem?
Usually not. The connection is established through birth, marriage and other official records.
Do I need to visit Lithuania or live in South Africa?
No. The application can generally be handled remotely, from any country. The passport application, after citizenship is approved, is made in person at a Lithuanian embassy or consulate, or in Lithuania.
Is there a language or residence requirement?
No. Once citizenship is restored there is no language test and no requirement to live in Lithuania.
How long does it take, and what does it cost?
Preparing the application usually depends on how quickly your documents can be obtained; the longest stage is the evaluation by the Migration Department. Every case is different, so we quote after the eligibility assessment.
What we need for an assessment
- Your ancestor’s full name
- Date of birth (approximate is fine)
- Town or village of birth or residence in Lithuania
- Approximate date your ancestor left Lithuania
- Any documents you already hold
Speak to us about your matter
Monday to Friday 08:00–16:30. Email is best for a first enquiry — include the facts and any deadline.