Moving to Lithuania

Expats moving to Lithuania, a picturesque country in the northeast of Europe, are in for a unique experience. Though not the most conventional destination, its Baltic Sea coast, charming forested landscape, and numerous lakes and rivers have given many expats a good reason to stay. 

Living in Lithuania as an expat

The largest and most populous of the three Baltic States in northeastern Europe, Lithuania is a Schengen state, a member of the EU, and in 1990 it became the first former Soviet state to declare independence from the USSR. Today, Lithuania is thriving and has a high-income economy, with the major industries being services, industry, and agriculture.

English is not widely spoken, and the language barrier can make doing business a tricky task. Interpreters are a good solution, although learning some conversational Lithuanian will make communication easier. The language is notoriously difficult to learn, but locals welcome being spoken to in their native tongue.

Expats moving to Lithuania will discover a beer-and-sport-loving nation that boasts efficient infrastructure and beautiful countryside vistas. Lithuanian society is a mix of conservative Catholic viewpoints and a quirky, Bohemian youth culture.

Cost of living in Lithuania

Lithuania has a fairly low cost of living compared to other European countries. While most accommodation in Lithuania's cities consists of Soviet-era apartment blocks, surprisingly affordable detached houses can be found further away from city centres.

Expat parents who'd prefer for their children to continue in a familiar curriculum and language should budget for an international school. Although healthcare in Lithuania is considered adequate, some expats may prefer private healthcare, which comes at a cost.

Families and children in Lithuania

Lithuania has a long and distinguished history of quality education. Public schooling is free for all citizens and residents; however, classes are taught in Lithuanian, which can be a significant hurdle. Catholic, vocational, international, and private schools are also available, with the latter steadily rising in popularity.

State healthcare in Lithuania is free to citizens and residents, and staff are usually highly qualified. Independent clinics can be found in most cities, accommodating those who prefer private healthcare.

Climate in Lithuania

Lithuania's climate tends toward chilly days in the winter and mild temperatures in the summer. Snowy weather can be expected from roughly October to April each year, sometimes with the addition of sleet in September and May. The cold climate does allow plenty of opportunities for winter sports such as skiing and ice skating.

Fast facts

Population: Around 2.7 million

Capital city: Vilnius

Neighbouring countries: Lithuania is bordered by Latvia to the north, Belarus to the east and south, Poland to the south and the Russian exclave Kaliningrad Oblast to the southwest. 

Geography: Lithuania is characterised by flat lowland areas separated by hills and highlands, as well as a scattering of lakes and swamps. The Baltic Sea stretches along Lithuania's western coast.

Political system: Parliamentary democracy

Major religions: Roman Catholicism

Main languages: Lithuanian

Currency: The Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. Opening a bank account in Lithuania as an expat is simple, as the required documents are fairly easy to come by. ATMs are abundant in urban areas, and credit cards are readily accepted; however, it is good practice to carry some cash, particularly in rural parts of the country.

Tipping: 10 percent if the service charge is not included.

Time: GMT+2 (GMT+3 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).

Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs, type C, are the most common.

Internet domain: .lt

International dialling code: +370

Emergency numbers: 112 (general emergency number)

Transport and driving: Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road in Lithuania. Vilnius has a good public transport network consisting of buses, trolleybuses and trains.