Lithuania Rules in Favour of Same Sex Couples Receiving Residency Permits

The Lithuanian High Court has ruled in favour of allowing foreign same-sex partners of citizens to have residency permits, reports Eyewitness News.

The refusal to issue permits cannot be based only on gender identity or sexual orientation,” ruled the court on Friday, January 11.

The Lithuanian migration department has confirmed it will now begin distributing residency permits to spouses of gay citizens.

The High Court’s decision marks the first official recognition for same sex couples in the country – homosexuality was only decriminalised in 1993.

“(This is) a progressive ruling that sends an important message to our LGBT community and politicians,” said Vladimir Simonko, leader of the Lithuanian Gay League.

“I hope it will lead towards more positive attitude towards gay families.”

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