No matter why you’ve decided to relocate – business, pleasure or family ties, this article is here to help you take your first steps with utmost safety and without redundant stress.
Here is all you need to know about relocating to Lithuania, starting from visa requirements, processes, healthcare and ending with living costs, housing, quality of life and, of course, the great benefits of living in Lithuania.
You should take into consideration two main questions: The migration process depends on your nationality and whether you already have a job offer in Lithuania.
If you are an EU / EEA national, a passport or ID is all you need to start: no need for a visa to live in Lithuania, and the residency process is clear-cut.
You can get more information about the requirements and processes via Work in Lithuania, a specially designed programme ensuring a sufficient talent pool with its needs met, created by Invest Lithuania.
As a non-EU national, getting an EU Blue Card would be the easiest way to start your journey. The EU Blue Card is aimed at highly skilled professionals, and specific visas for startups or digital nomads. Lithuania is particularly welcoming to entrepreneurs, with both the Lithuania startup visa and digital nomad visa available for business-minded individuals looking to relocate.
You can get more information here about the visa application, visa requirements and visa process in Lithuania.
Having access to high-quality, free (or at least reasonably priced) healthcare is a crucial component of expat life when discussing relocation. Good news – healthcare in Lithuania is free for citizens and foreigners who are permanently residing in the country.
Well-regarded and offering both public and private services, the Lithuanian healthcare system provides free healthcare to residents through the national health insurance system. However, expats often opt for private healthcare due to shorter waiting times and access to more specialized services.
As an expat, you may need to arrange private insurance or pay monthly health insurance contributions if you are not initially covered by the national systems (or while awaiting your residency permit).
You can get more information about the healthcare system over here (in the “Health” section) – health insurance – doctors – clinics and hospitals, and psychological assistance services.
Lithuania’s standard of living is relatively affordable compared to other European countries, which makes it a desirable location for expats, especially those seeking to maximize their investment and financial potential.
The cost of living in Lithuania per month will vary depending on your a) lifestyle, b) location, and c) personal preferences. Based on average salary calculations, a single person can live comfortably on €1,000–€1,500 per month, while a family of four may anticipate spending between €2,500 and €3,500.
Residential Housing in the Paupys District © N. Tukaj
Housing and the geographical location are two other factors that could easily influence the quality of life and the living costs in Lithuania. Rental prices vary by city, with Vilnius, the capital, being the most expensive. However, even in Vilnius, housing is relatively affordable compared to other major European cities. Outside the capital, cities like Kaunas and Klaipėda offer even more affordable living options: the best places to live in Lithuania often depend on your personal and professional goals.
When renting in Lithuania, the use of rental agreements is a standard practice. Agreements that outline the length of residence as more than 12 months must be in writing and can be fixed term or ongoing. These are usually signed between two parties; however, it is possible to have a confirmation from a notary. A 1–3-month deposit is usually required, which is returned after the contract expires or is terminated.
The process of buying an apartment or house is fairly standardized across Europe, and Lithuania is no different. Once you have found your new home, you can either arrange a mortgage with your bank or buy the property without a loan. Just keep in mind that to issue a loan, banks usually require you to have at least 15% of the property’s price in saving.
Because of its high quality of life, Lithuania is becoming a popular destination for foreigners. The nation offers a well-rounded lifestyle that includes a strong work-life balance, access to nature, a thriving social scene and a vibrant nightlife, especially in its capital city, Vilnius.
In terms of safety, Lithuania is considered one of the safest countries in Europe, with low crime rates and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Expats often highlight the country’s safety as one of the key benefits of living in Lithuania.
Invest Lithuania is here to keep you informed about the latest news, opportunities, and developments shaping Lithuania’s business landscape. If you have any questions or would like more details, feel free to contact us—we’re here to provide the insights you need.
