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→ Start the quizMoving to Lithuania: At a Glance
Lithuania is in Eastern Europe, with its main hub in Vilnius. It’s known for a specific mix of lifestyle, work culture and affordability — and it can be a strong option for expats depending on your income level and priorities.
Residence Permit Basics (EU vs non-EU)
Requirements depend on whether you are an EU/EEA citizen or moving from outside the EU. This is a practical overview — always confirm details from official sources.
- EU/EEA citizens: You can live and work in Lithuania, but typically need to register your residence if staying long term.
- Non-EU citizens: You’ll usually need a temporary residence permit (work, studies, family, business/startup routes).
- Common documents: valid passport, address/housing proof, health insurance, and a legal basis (employment contract, studies, etc.).
- Best practice: Start early and keep digital copies of every document.
Key Numbers (2026)
Quick Links
Job Market and Career Opportunities
Why Lithuania is the Baltic Tech Tiger
Lithuania combines vibrant tech ecosystem, beautiful Baroque Vilnius, and forward-looking economy with excellent English proficiency. With unemployment at 6.5% and outstanding English skills (78%), opportunities flourish especially in fintech and technology. The average salary of €22,000 provides good value with reasonable Baltic living costs.
Top Industries in Lithuania
Financial Technology
Major fintech hub with companies like Revolut, Vinted, and growing digital banking sector.
Information Technology
Strong tech sector with Vilnius emerging as "Northern European Silicon Valley" with startup ecosystem.
Shared Services
Growing shared service centers for Western European companies leveraging multilingual workforce.
Job Applications and Language Requirements
English proficiency at 78% makes Lithuania the most accessible Baltic state for international professionals. Lithuanian language helpful but tech companies and international firms commonly operate in English. Strong demand for digital skills with competitive salaries in growing tech sector.
Pro Tip for Job Hunting
CV Online and CV.lt are main platforms. Vilnius dominates tech scene with "Startup Lithuania" program. Russian also valuable for regional business. Strong startup visa program.
Housing in Lithuania
Baroque Beauty at Reasonable Rates
Lithuania offers charming housing from historic Vilnius Old Town to modern developments at competitive Baltic prices. Average rent is €11/m² - reasonable for region - with good availability (~72%). Purchase prices average €2,300/m², making Lithuanian real estate attractive with growing tech economy and EU membership benefits.
Major Cities by Housing Costs
Vilnius
Kaunas
Klaipėda
Šiauliai
Apartment Hunting - Practical Tips
- Use Aruodas.lt and Domoplius.lt: Main Lithuanian housing platforms
- Vilnius Old Town: UNESCO World Heritage site - beautiful but expensive and tourist-heavy
- Tech districts: Modern developments near business centers with international community
- Soviet-era apartments: Affordable options, many renovated with modern amenities
Cost of Living by City (Quick Comparison)
Most expats choose Vilnius first, but Kaunas can be better value. Coastal Klaipėda can be seasonal and tourism-driven.
- Vilnius: best job market and international community, typically higher rents.
- Kaunas: strong university city, often cheaper housing, good quality of life.
- Klaipėda: coastal lifestyle and port economy, rents can vary by season.
Taxation and Net Salaries
Lithuanian Tax System
Progressive tax system with competitive rates for Baltic region. Average net salary ~€16,000 on €22,000 gross. Progressive system with higher rates for upper income brackets starting at higher levels.
Income Tax Brackets 2025
| Income Bracket | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| under €30,000 | 20.0% |
| €30,000-50,000 | 20.0% |
| over €50,000 | 32.0% |
Tech-Friendly Tax Environment
Lithuania offers competitive tax environment with special support for startups and tech companies. Startup Lithuania program provides various benefits. Growing fintech sector with supportive regulatory environment.
Key Benefits:
- Progressive tax starting at 20%
- Startup Lithuania support program
- Fintech-friendly regulatory environment
- EU single market access
Cost of Living
Monthly Essential Costs
Groceries and Daily Items
€175/monthMaxima, IKI and Rimi main chains. Good local produce and Baltic specialties.
Transportation
€25/monthGood public transport in Vilnius. Reasonable intercity connections. Affordable overall.
Utilities
€85/monthHeating €55, electricity €30. District heating common, efficient systems.
Health Insurance
€0/monthFree public healthcare for employed residents. Good quality system.
Internet and Mobile
€24/monthTele2, Telia and Bite. Excellent coverage and competitive pricing.
Bureaucracy and Practical Matters
First Steps After Moving
Register at Migration Department
Register residence at Migration Department within 30 days. Digital services available online.
Get Personal Code
Apply for Lithuanian personal code (asmens kodas) at local municipality for employment and services.
Open Bank Account
Swedbank, SEB or Luminor. Good digital banking options. Need registration and identification.
Culture and Lifestyle
Baltic Innovation Meets Historic Charm
Lithuanian culture combines Baltic traditions with forward-looking tech innovation. 78% English proficiency - highest in Baltics - and strong international startup community. Rich cultural heritage with Vilnius Baroque architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
Lifestyle Characteristics
Fintech Capital
Home to Revolut, Vinted, and emerging "Northern European Silicon Valley" reputation.
Baroque Vilnius
UNESCO World Heritage Old Town with stunning Baroque architecture and cobblestone streets.
Nature Access
Curonian Spit UNESCO site, lakes, forests, and Baltic coastline within easy reach.
Summary: Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Highest English proficiency in Baltics (78%)
- Thriving fintech and tech ecosystem
- Beautiful Baroque Vilnius UNESCO site
- Competitive progressive tax system
- Strong startup support programs
- Good work-life balance culture
Challenges
- Smaller job market outside tech sector
- Lower average salaries than Western Europe
- Lithuanian language helpful for advancement
- Long, dark winters
- Limited cultural diversity outside Vilnius
- Emigration pressure on local talent
Final Recommendation
Best for: Tech professionals, fintech entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and startup founders seeking English-speaking environment with Baltic charm; ideal for those in technology sector or seeking innovative business environment.