Lithuanian nationality law
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Lithuanian nationality law is based on birth within the borders of Lithuania, the right of return, and naturalization. Naturalization requires a residency period; an examination in the Lithuanian language; examination results demonstrating familiarity with the Lithuanian Constitution; a demonstrated means of support; and an oath of loyalty.
The current version of citizenship law was enacted in 1991, after Lithuania established its independence from the Soviet Union; it was most recently amended in January 2003.
In November 2006, the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Lithuania ruled that the Law on Citizenship (wording of 17 September 2002 with subsequent amendments and supplements), was "controversial, inconsistent and confusing." [1]. At issue was the possession of dual citizenship; the provision extended the right of citizenship, and hence the right to vote, to members of the post-Soviet Lithuanian diaspora, which was concentrated in the United States, Canada, Australia, and Argentina, and their children and grandchildren. The most notable member of this diaspora was Lithuanian President Valdas Adamkus, who had become a United States citizen; he formally renounced that citizenship before taking the oath of office. The use of the term "repatriated" has been especially controversial. The Lithuanian Seimas (parliament) is expected to address this issue during 2007.
The text of the law is listed at Lithuanian citizenship laws.
