Vilnius mayor launches petition for tougher language rules for migrants

Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas will begin collecting signatures on May 4 in Cathedral Square, proposing that foreigners from non-EU countries be required to learn the Lithuanian language in order to renew their residence permits.

According to LRT, the initiative would require third-country nationals to demonstrate at least A2-level Lithuanian proficiency after three years of residence in order to extend their temporary residence permits.

Benkunskas said current regulations do not sufficiently encourage language learning, which he believes hinders the integration of foreign residents. He added that he had previously appealed to the Interior Ministry but received no support.

The signature campaign will continue throughout May in various districts of Vilnius, as well as online.

City authorities say around 76,000 foreigners currently live in Vilnius, the majority of whom are citizens of non-EU countries.

By Vugar Khalilov