In a Lithuanian diaspora that is surprisingly substantial, questions about cultural retention, language-learning and emigration are not new. An even more exacting issue is that of conscription, writes Pasauliolietuvis.lt.
According to the Lithuanian Military Conscription Service (KPKT), an increasing number of Lithuanians living abroad are interested in returning to their native land and joining the Lithuanian Armed Forces (LAF) to serve their country. Responses to five of the most frequently asked questions were published to help people understand the meaning, the process and the responsibility of serving in the LAF.
Why am I on the conscription list if I was born outside of Lithuania or have lived abroad for many years and no longer have ties with Lithuania?
Your Lithuanian citizenship implies a bond with Lithuania and therefore a constitutional duty. All Lithuanian citizens are subject to the same laws, so that even when living abroad, they must be aware of their status and remember that males from 18 to 60 years of age planning to or already living abroad for more than six months must inform the KPKT of their address.
Non-compliance with the law may give rise to unpleasant situations, such as landing on a list of wanted persons, having a conscription notice delivered immediately upon leaving the country or returning, or when processing documents at Lithuanian embassies.
What should I do if I live outside of Lithuania and find I am on a conscription list?
First, check carefully on https://sauktiniai.karys.lt/ for the list of conscripts according to region, then contact the appropriate department by telephone or email to be advised about submission of required documents and other details. Documents may be submitted in Lithuanian or in English, or, in other languages, together with official translations into Lithuanian (including originals).
How can I save on travel to my regional KPKT department?
Travel for conscripts to and from their regional department as well as medical examinations are paid for, once an application is filled out and documents proving ticket cost, mode of travel, dates, itinerary, etc., are submitted.
If I am employed in a foreign country or have a bank loan, can I be excused from military service?
No, because citizens may not be excused from military duty on the basis of work contracts or credit status. Lithuanian law states that employers may not fire conscripts during their compulsory military service period. The law does not apply to employers in other countries, but the KPKT has not encountered anyone having problems with their employers in this regard. Most employers are happy to make accommodations for such employees.
There is no basis in law to postpone or excuse conscripts from service due to loans or other financial obligations. Conscripts must renegotiate any contract with financial institutions before beginning to serve, and can be excused only under the circumstances prescribed in the Military Service Act.
If I declare my emigration from Lithuania and obtain the citizenship of another country, do I still have to serve in the army? Can I serve where I live?
Dual citizenhip does not cancel the duties of Lithuanian citizens, no matter where they live, and whether or not they declare their departure. Conscription is a requirement of Lithuanian citizenship. Citizens who wish to serve in a foreign country may do so in a NATO or EU member country with permission from the Lithuanian Ministry of Internal Affairs. Without such permission they risk losing their Lithuanian citizenship. They must also ensure that their term of service is properly registered and that in such a case they become members of the Reserves of two countries, and can be called up for military training in both countries.
Additional information is available at karys.lt.
