How to Prove Your Ancestor’s Lithuanian Citizenship Before 1940 | Lithuanian Citizenship Proof

Learn which historical documents prove that your ancestor held Lithuanian citizenship before June 15, 1940 — a key requirement for reclaiming Lithuanian citizenship by descent.

How to Prove Your Ancestor’s Lithuanian Citizenship Before June 15, 1940

If you're applying for Lithuanian citizenship by descent, one of the most important legal requirements is proving that your ancestor was a Lithuanian citizen before June 15, 1940.

Below is a list of accepted documents that serve as proof of citizenship under Lithuanian law.

1. Foreign Lithuanian Passport (Užsienio Pasas)

A passport issued by the independent Republic of Lithuania is the clearest and most direct proof of citizenship. This passport was used to travel abroad.

2. Internal Lithuanian Passport (Vidaus Pasas)

Used domestically for identification within Lithuania. While not valid for travel, it proves the person was a legal resident and held Lithuanian citizenship.
3. Military Service Records

Mandatory military service in the Lithuanian Armed Forces during the interwar period was typically reserved for citizens.
Service documents, draft registrations, or demobilization papers may serve as direct proof of citizenship.

4. Voter Registration or Election Records

Voting was a right reserved for citizens.
Participation in municipal or national elections — confirmed through lists or official documents — is strong evidence of Lithuanian citizenship.

5. Civil Registry Records Marked with “Citizen of Lithuania”

Birth, marriage, or other civil records may contain notes (often marginal) indicating that the person was a "Lietuvos pilietis" (Citizen of Lithuania).

Note: Not all records are annotated, so absence of a note does not always mean lack of citizenship.

6. Identity Cards (“Asmens liudijimas”)

These documents were issued to citizens of Lithuanian only.
While not as commonly used as a passport, these documents carry the same legal weight and can support a case just as effectively when combined with other evidence.

Important Legal Considerations:

• Only documents dated before June 15, 1940 can be used as direct evidence. Except Lithuanian Passports and Identity Cards issued after June 15, 1940 by Lithuanian embassy or consulate.

• Documents must be originals or certified copies.

• Non-Lithuanian documents (e.g., from emigration countries) can support your case if they reference Lithuanian origin or citizenship, but are usually considered secondary.

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