Vilnius mayor launches petition to require foreign residents to learn Lithuanian

Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas on Monday began collecting signatures in the capital’s Cathedral Square for a petition calling on foreign nationals residing in Lithuania to learn the Lithuanian language, BNS reports.

The initiative proposes amending the law to require non-EU citizens to demonstrate at least an A2-level proficiency in Lithuanian after three years of temporary residence to extend their permits. Currently, no such requirement exists for temporary residents.

Benkunskas, a member of the conservative Homeland Union–Lithuanian Christian Democrats (TS-LKD), stated that language skills are essential for successful integration. He previously raised the issue with the interior minister but received no constructive response. “Perhaps the minister lacks public support for leadership on this, so we are gathering citizens’ signatures to strengthen their mandate,” he said.

The petition drive, supported by TS-LKD and Vilnius City Council members, will run throughout May, with signatures collected both in person and online.

Interior Minister Vladislavas Kondratovičius noted in April that while his ministry oversees legal migration, language and cultural integration fall under the responsibility of the ministries of culture, social security, labour, and local municipalities. He suggested a five-year timeline for foreign residents to learn the state language.

Last year, parliament considered—but did not advance—amendments proposed by TS-LKD leader Laurynas Kasčiūnas to require foreign nationals to learn Lithuanian within five years. According to Vilnius city data, 76,000 foreign nationals reside in the capital, including 61,000 non-EU citizens. Nationwide, 189,000 foreign nationals held temporary residence permits as of early March, per the Migration Department.