An expat guide to Lithuania

Lithuania has become an attractive destination for professionals and skilled workers worldwide. While you might usually associate British expats with Spain or Australia – the eastern European country has much to offer. Since Lithuania gained independence, its economy has grown 500 per cent in size and is continuing to do well, with a growth of two per cent expected this year and three per cent in 2025.

An emerging hub for young people, Lithuania recently topped the World Happiness Report for the under 30s and is regularly rated above the UK, Germany and France by the quality of life index. With the rise of remote working and a skills shortage in Lithuania, which has a population of less than three million, the country is becoming an increasingly popular destination for expats to live and work. If you’re considering living and working in Lithuania, our comprehensive guide will help you prepare for the move.

What jobs are there for expats in Lithuania?

Lithuania is an excellent prospect for those seeking employment in professional fields, such as marketing, accounting, sales representatives and educators. That’s according to EU recruitment agency, European Job Days, which says the country is currently facing a shortage of skilled workers, with vacancies in Lithuania becoming difficult to fill as a result of its ageing population as well as other challenges.

As a result, highly qualified workers from outside the EU are offered a simplified migration route to encourage them into the country. The so-called Blue Card scheme offers a fast track for workers with a salary higher than the national average, relevant higher education qualification and five years of appropriate education – reduced to three for IT specialists.

Is it easy to get residency in Lithuania?

Prospective expats should be aware that, in recent months, Lithuania has tightened its migration policy. While the country actively seeks skills from abroad, expats will likely need a residence permit to work there. The change comes amid what the Lithuanian government said was a significant increase in foreign nationals entering the country. According to reports, the changes will impact those living within the EU and Schengen Zone.

Extra restrictions apply to third-party nationals – though skilled workers and professionals should keep in mind the existence of fast-track schemes designed to incentivise highly salaried workers and experts into the country. To that end, Lithuania offers temporary and permanent residency permits.

Temporary residence permits are typically issued for one to two years and cost a small fee of €160 to process. You will also be required to show you have at least €840 in the bank as of 2023 and show a clean criminal record, among other familiar requirements.

Permanent residence can be obtained after living in Lithuania for five years and can be more challenging to obtain. The permit requires completing a language test and a quiz on the country’s constitution.

British expats should consider the Blue Card scheme, which affords the same advantages as a temporary residence permit.

Is healthcare free in Lithuania?

Healthcare in Lithuania is provided by a national insurance scheme, which citizens pay toward and receive medical attention primarily free at the point of service. UK nationals can access the system if they are registered residents and paying into the scheme via an EHIC if they are on a temporary stay or have a UK-issued S1 form.

However, to move to Lithuania, you must show proof of existing healthcare coverage when applying as a resident or for a visa. According to UK government guidance, the cost of enrolling in the national health insurance fund is around €508 per annum, which is taken at source for employed residents.

All citizens and residents of Lithuania are compelled to pay into the system, with exemptions for some vulnerable groups for whom the Lithuanian government covers the cost.

What is the quality of life like in Lithuania?

The quality of life for Lithuanians and those residing in the country has been on the up since the country gained its independence in 1990. Over the past decade, progress has accelerated, with high levels of employment, strong levels of education and low levels of pollution.

While it does rank lower than the OECD group of 38 countries for GDP per capita and life expectancy, it is continuing its upward trend. This finding is echoed in data from the CPMA, which tracked several indices in Lithuania from 2013 to 2021 and observed significant improvements in living conditions.

According to a recent poll, most Lithuanians believe they have a good quality of life, and three-quarters say the economy is doing well. Among respondents, more than 80 per cent believed the country had a positive future ahead of it, though some raised concern over the cost of living.

However, Western expats, particularly those in professional fields, may find Lithuania more affordable than their home country.

How much money do you need to live in Lithuania?

While wages in Lithuania are lower than the OECD average, and some citizens complain of a high cost of living – many expats, particularly professionals, will find the cost of living in Lithuania is relatively low. According to data from cost-of-living index Numbero, the estimated average monthly cost for a family of four is £2,173. The overall cost of living in Lithuania is 23 per cent lower than in the UK, and rent is half the price in Lithuania than it is in the UK.

Buying a property in Lithuania will be affordable for many expats, with a typical studio apartment in Klaipeda costing around €49,000, a two-room apartment in Vilnius or Kaunas around €100,000, and a rural house starting at €110,000. However, property prices are rising, which is in line with wages in the country.

According to one Lithuanian citizen advice service, grocery shopping for one person costs about €150 monthly, including animal products, fruits, vegetables, and staples. The cost is about €270 for two people, and for a family of four, around €510. Dining out is affordable, with a cheap restaurant meal costing about €10 and a three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant costing around €40.

Utilities in Lithuania are also reasonably priced. In Vilnius, essential utilities for an 85m² apartment for one or two people cost around €160 per month, with lower costs outside the capital. Internet costs can be as low as €8.90 monthly, and mobile plans start at €3 monthly.

Is Lithuania a good country for expats?

Lithuania’s job market is ripe with opportunities in sectors such as marketing, accounting, sales, and education. The nation’s skill shortages have led to simplified migration routes for highly qualified professionals, particularly through the Blue Card scheme, which offers a streamlined process for those with higher-than-average salaries and relevant qualifications. Despite the recent tightening of migration policies, Lithuania remains accessible to skilled workers who can qualify for residency.

The cost of living in Lithuania is relatively low compared to Western Europe. Additionally, the real estate market offers appealing investment opportunities as property prices steadily increase alongside wages. Daily expenses, including groceries, dining, and utilities, are budget-friendly, making Lithuania an attractive choice for those looking to maximise their quality of life on a reasonable budget.

As Lithuania continues to develop and integrate into the global economy, it offers a promising future for expatriates seeking a new home that balances modern amenities with traditional European charm. Whether you are drawn by professional opportunities, affordable living, or a vibrant cultural scene, Lithuania stands out as an attractive destination for expats.