Yes, it is very possible that you could obtain long-term residency, and even Lithuanian citizenship, based on your Lithuanian heritage documented through Ellis Island records. Lithuania has very specific laws regarding the restoration of citizenship and pathways to residency for individuals of Lithuanian descent. Here's how it generally works and what you should investigate: 1. Citizenship by Descent (Restoration of Citizenship) This is often the most direct and beneficial path. Lithuania allows individuals to restore their citizenship if they can prove that: * Your ancestor was a citizen of the Republic of Lithuania before June 15, 1940. This date is crucial as it marks the beginning of the Soviet occupation. * Your ancestor or their descendants left Lithuania before March 11, 1990 (when Lithuania regained independence). This covers those who fled persecution or left during the Soviet occupation. * You are a direct descendant (child, grandchild, or great-grandchild) of such an ancestor. Why this is highly advantageous: * No residency requirement: You don't need to have ever lived in Lithuania. * No language or civic exam requirements. * Dual citizenship is often permitted: This is a major benefit. For descendants of those who left Lithuania due to persecution or during the Soviet occupation, Lithuania generally allows you to retain your current citizenship (e.g., US citizenship) while also gaining Lithuanian citizenship. * Full EU rights: If you get Lithuanian citizenship, you become an EU citizen, giving you the right to live, work, study, and retire in any EU country, including Lithuania, without needing a separate visa or residency permit. How Ellis Island Records Can Help: Ellis Island records (passenger lists, manifests) are invaluable for proving your connection. They often contain: * Place of last residence: This can indicate a town or region in Lithuania. * Names and ages: To help establish lineage. * Names of relatives: Sometimes, even the names of relatives in Lithuania are listed, which can be useful for further research. However, you'll need to go beyond just the Ellis Island record to prove actual Lithuanian citizenship of your ancestor before 1940. This often involves finding: * Lithuanian birth certificates, marriage certificates, or other official documents issued by Lithuanian authorities from that period. * Evidence of your ancestor's departure from Lithuania (e.g., US naturalization certificates, old foreign passports that show their country of origin as Lithuania). 2. Permanent Residency Based on Lithuanian Descent (Certificate of Lithuanian Descent) Even if you don't qualify for direct citizenship restoration (e.g., if your ancestor didn't hold citizenship before 1940, but was an ethnic Lithuanian), you might be able to obtain a Certificate of Lithuanian Descent. * This document officially confirms your ethnic Lithuanian origin. * It can provide an indefinite right to obtain a visa to Lithuania and, crucially, to apply for permanent residency in Lithuania. * To qualify, you generally need to show that at least one of your parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents was an ethnic Lithuanian. Important Considerations and Next Steps: * Gather all your documentation: Start by collecting birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates that establish your lineage from your ancestor to yourself. * Research your ancestor's history in Lithuania: Try to find out as much as possible about their life in Lithuania before they emigrated. This is where those Ellis Island clues become vital for deeper archival research. * Consult with a Lithuanian immigration lawyer or specialist: This is highly recommended. Lithuanian citizenship and residency laws can be complex, and a specialist can: * Assess your eligibility for citizenship restoration or a Certificate of Lithuanian Descent. * Help you navigate the required documentation, including obtaining archival records from Lithuania. * Prepare and submit your application to the Migration Department of Lithuania. * Guide you through the entire process, which can take time (often 1.5 to 2 years for citizenship by descent). * The Migration Department of Lithuania: This is the primary authority for processing these applications. In summary, your Ellis Island records are a fantastic starting point for exploring your eligibility for Lithuanian citizenship or long-term residency. Focus on establishing that direct lineage and the pre-1940 citizenship status of your ancestor, and seriously consider getting professional help to navigate the process.