Documents for drivers from Moldova to Lithuania
Lithuania actively hires drivers from third countries: truck driver is on the list of shortage occupations, which simplifies the residence permit. The main limit is the annual quota for third-country workers (about 24,700 in 2026), which can run out before the end of the year.
Visa-free entry for up to 90 days does not allow work. The employer arranges a national visa D (multiple entry) or directly a temporary residence permit via MIGRIS; visa documents are submitted at the Lithuanian visa centre in your country.
Steps in order
- Check the quota and the shortage listThe Employment Service (Užimtumo tarnyba) publishes the shortage list and the annual quota every year. While the quota is not exhausted, a driver goes through the simplified route; afterwards only with a work permit, which takes longer.
- Visa D or temporary residence permit via MIGRISThe employer creates the application in MIGRIS and attaches the contract or offer. The residence permit for a shortage occupation is issued for up to 3 years. Processing usually 1–3 months; the fee is paid on application.
- Licence, 95 kodas and vairuotojo liudijimasNon-EU licences are exchanged at Regitra; without a recognition agreement a test is required. Code 95 (95 kodas) is obtained via initial qualification at an accredited school. For international trips the employer obtains the driver attestation (vairuotojo liudijimas) for third-country drivers from LTSA.
- After arrivalDeclare your place of residence, collect the residence card at the Migration Department, Sodra via the employer, bank account. Per diems for trips do not replace the official salary: pension and sick pay depend on it.
Who pays what
Official sources
This is a general overview, not legal advice. Checked on 25/10/2026. Laws and fees change: verify on the official sites via the links and ask the employer in the chat.
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