South Africa passport → Lithuania

Lithuania visa for citizens of South Africa

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (Short-stay, C-type)

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Lithuania and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Schengen Visa (Short-stay, C-type)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90 + €30 service fee
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient funds (approx. €50 per day of stay)

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and gather documents
Identify if you need a short-stay Schengen visa or a long-stay D visa (if of Lithuanian descent).
2
Complete the visa application form
Fill out the Schengen visa application form online or at the VFS centre.
3
Book an appointment at the VFS Global centre
Schedule an appointment online via VFS Global for South Africa.
4
Pay the visa fee
Pay the €80 government fee plus service fee at the VFS centre (cash or card).
5
Attend the appointment and submit biometrics
Submit your application, provide fingerprints and photograph, and hand over documents.
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days, may extend up to 45 days.
7
Collect passport with decision
Return to VFS centre or opt for courier delivery (if available).

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years)
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area.
Completed and signed visa application form
Available online or at VFS centre.
Two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm, white background)
Must meet Schengen photo standards.

Travel

Travel itinerary (flight bookings and accommodation reservations)
Round-trip flight and hotel bookings for entire stay.
Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Valid for entire Schengen area and duration of stay.
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
If staying with a friend/relative, a formal invitation from the host.

Financial

Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, payslips, or sponsor letter)
Bank statements for last 3 months showing regular income.

Employment

Employment letter or proof of occupation
Letter from employer stating position, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)
Optional
Helps demonstrate travel history.
Marriage certificate or birth certificate (if applicable)
Optional
For family visits or dependents.
Proof of Lithuanian descent (if claiming long-stay D visa)
Optional
Documents proving parent/grandparent/great-grandparent Lithuanian origin.
Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Optional
Optional but recommended to clarify travel plans.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €50 per day of stay

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Payslips
Sponsor letter with sponsor's bank statements

Sufficient funds must cover accommodation, meals, and local transport.

Good to know

Visa does not guarantee entry; border officials may refuse entry.
Overstaying can lead to bans and future visa denials.
Biometrics are valid for 59 months; if previously collected, you may not need to attend in person.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient or unclear proof of funds

Provide clear bank statements showing regular income and sufficient balance.

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign the form.

Lack of travel insurance or invalid coverage

Purchase insurance that meets Schengen requirements (€30,000 minimum).

Previous visa violations or overstays

Ensure compliance with previous visa conditions.

FAQ

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Lithuania?

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Lithuania and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa (Short-stay, C-type).

How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Lithuania?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Lithuania visa cost for citizens of South Africa?

Government fee: €90 + €30 service fee.

How long does Lithuania visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Lithuania?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years); Completed and signed visa application form; Two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm, white background); Travel itinerary (flight bookings and accommodation reservations); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, payslips, or sponsor letter); and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Lithuania?

At least 3 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/index.html

Sources

vfsglobal.com

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