Camilla Jessen
New law restricts Russian citizens from frequent travel to Russia and Belarus.
Lithuania has revoked the temporary residence permit of a Russian citizen for repeatedly traveling to Russia and Belarus, in the first case under a new law aimed at tightening security in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
As reported by LRT on July 3, the Lithuanian Migration Department confirmed that 34 other cases are under review for possible violations of the regulation, which came into effect in May.
One trip every 90 days—or lose your permit
The law allows authorities to cancel the temporary residence permits of Russian nationals who enter Russia or Belarus more than once within any 90-day period.
This measure is part of Lithuania’s broader efforts to limit Russian influence and strengthen border security.
Transport workers involved in international cargo or passenger transit are exempt—but only if they can present proof of employment, such as a certificate from their employer.
According to the Migration Department, none of the individuals currently under investigation meet these criteria.
Hundreds of crossings flagged
In May alone, 292 Russian citizens crossed the Lithuanian border with Russia or Belarus more than once.
However, most were covered by permitted exemptions under the law.
Lithuanian authorities are now investigating the remaining 33 flagged cases to determine whether more residency permits will be revoked.
Broader crackdown follows Belarus tensions
This move comes as Lithuania ramps up security at its borders, particularly in response to ongoing provocations and illegal migration tied to Belarus.
The Lithuanian Cabinet recently approved tighter controls at specific border checkpoints, citing the evolving tactics of Belarusian intelligence services and a sharp increase in attempted illegal crossings.
