Life in Lithuania

Finding housing in Lithuania is usually easier than in many Western European countries, but competition for high-quality apartments in major cities remains quite high. This is especially true in Vilnius, where demand is consistently driven by students, foreign professionals, and employees of international companies. Therefore, it’s best to start looking for housing before you move or immediately after arriving in the country.

Where to look for housing?

Most rental listings are posted on specialized Lithuanian real estate platforms. There, you can find listings from both private landlords and apartments offered through agencies.

The most popular websites for finding housing:

• Aruodas.lt — the largest real estate portal in Lithuania;
• Domoplius.lt — a popular service for renting and buying housing;
• Skelbiu.lt — a large classifieds website;
• Alio.lt — a platform featuring listings from landlords and agencies.

There are also a large number of real estate agencies in Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda that can help you find housing more quickly, especially if you don’t yet speak Lithuanian or are outside the country.

Searching Through Ukrainian Communities

Many Ukrainians find housing through themed groups on Facebook, Telegram, and Viber. These communities often feature listings from landlords who rent directly, without intermediaries, allowing you to save on agency commissions.

At the same time, keep in mind that apartments at a good price are usually rented out very quickly. If a listing meets your requirements, it’s best to contact the landlord immediately after it’s posted.

What documents might you need?

Landlords in Lithuania generally don’t impose excessive requirements on tenants, but they may ask you to verify your identity and financial stability.

You’ll need to provide:

• a foreign passport or residence permit;
• a Lithuanian personal identification number (if you’ve already received one);
• an employment contract or proof of income;
• your employer’s contact information;
• in some cases, a reference from a previous landlord.

For short-term rentals, a passport is usually sufficient.

How to Avoid Scams?

Although the rental market in Lithuania is considered fairly safe, cases of fraud do occur. Most often, foreigners trying to find housing remotely fall victim to such scams.

You should be especially cautious if:

• the rent is significantly lower than the market average;
• the landlord refuses to show you the apartment in person or via video call;
• you are asked to transfer a security deposit before viewing the property;
• the landlord offers to sign the lease agreement only after receiving an advance payment.

Never transfer money if the landlord claims to be abroad and says they will send the keys by mail or courier after payment. This scheme is one of the most common forms of fraud in the rental market.

⚖️ If the contract is written in Lithuanian or contains unclear terms, you should seek legal advice. The experts at Visit Ukraine will help you review the lease agreement, explain the rights and obligations of both parties, and help you avoid risks when moving to Lithuania.

Food prices in Lithuania remain moderate compared to most Western European countries. To many Ukrainians, supermarket prices may seem familiar, although certain categories of goods—primarily dairy products, meat, and fish—are usually more expensive than in Ukraine.

Where to buy groceries?

Lithuania has a well-developed network of supermarkets across various price segments. The most popular among locals and foreigners are Maxima, Norfa, Lidl, Iki, and Rimi. Each chain regularly runs promotions and offers loyalty programs, so many residents keep track of discounts using mobile apps.

Lidl and Norfa are generally considered the most economical options for everyday shopping, while Rimi and some Iki stores focus on a wider selection of imported goods and premium-segment products.

Farmers’ markets and local markets are also popular in major cities, where you can buy fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, cheese, and other products from local producers.

How much do groceries cost?

Prices may vary depending on the city, supermarket chain, and season, but on average, the following prices can be expected in 2026:

• bread — 1.2–2 euros;
• milk (1 L) — 1.2–1.8 euros;
• eggs (10) — 2–3.5 euros;
• chicken breast (1 kg) — 6–10 euros;
• hard cheese (1 kg) — 8–15 euros;
• potatoes (1 kg) — 0.7–1.5 euros;
• apples (1 kg) — 1–2 euros;
• rice (1 kg) — 1.5–3 euros.

Imported food products, exotic fruits, and international brand-name goods can cost significantly more than their local counterparts.

What is the food budget?

For a single person who mainly cooks at home, the average monthly food budget is approximately 200–350 euros. A couple typically spends between 400 and 600 euros, while a family with two children spends between 700 and 1,000 euros, depending on their lifestyle and how often they eat out.

It’s important to note that eating out in Lithuania is more expensive than cooking at home. That’s why many residents opt for a hybrid approach: they have lunch at a café during the workday and cook dinner at home.

Cafés, Restaurants, and Food Delivery

Lithuania has a well-developed dining-out culture. Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda are home to a large number of cafés, restaurants, and establishments offering international cuisine.

Average prices are as follows:

• lunch at an affordable café — 8–15 euros;
• business lunch — 6–12 euros;
• dinner at a mid-range restaurant — 20–40 euros per person;
• coffee — 2–4 euros;
• pizza or a burger — 8–15 euros.

Wolt and Bolt Food remain popular delivery services, operating in most of the country’s major cities.

How to save on groceries?

Most Lithuanians actively take advantage of promotional offers and supermarket loyalty cards. Thanks to this, certain items can be purchased at discounts of up to 30–50%.

Seasonal, locally grown fruits and vegetables will help you save even more, as will shopping at markets toward the end of the day, when vendors often lower their prices.

Families with children should keep an eye out for special promotions at large retail chains, as they regularly offer discounts on baby food, cleaning supplies, and essential goods.

Lithuania has a well-developed transportation system that makes it easy to get around the country—both within major cities and between regions. In Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda, buses and trolleybuses form the backbone of public transportation, while modern bus routes and the railway provide intercity service.

Public Transportation

In Lithuania’s largest cities, public transportation runs regularly and covers virtually all residential areas. Tickets can be purchased via mobile apps, using special transit cards, or directly on board.

Average fare:

• single-ride ticket — 0.65–1 euro;
• monthly pass — 25–40 euros;
• student and discounted passes — at reduced rates.

In Vilnius, the “Vilniečio kortelė” electronic card is popular; it allows you to pay lower fares and use various modes of transportation within the city.

Intercity Transportation

For travel between cities, residents of Lithuania often use buses or trains. The bus route network covers virtually the entire country, and carriers offer regular service even to small towns.

A trip from Vilnius to Kaunas usually costs 7–12 euros, and to Klaipėda—15–25 euros, depending on the mode of transportation and when you book.

Lithuania is also an important transportation hub for travel throughout Europe. International airports in Vilnius, Kaunas, and Palanga offer regular flights to dozens of European cities. Airlines are constantly expanding their route networks, adding new destinations for both leisure and business travel. You can learn more about new international flights from Lithuania in our article.

Bicycles

Lithuania is actively developing its cycling infrastructure, especially in Vilnius and Kaunas. These cities have bike lanes, as well as bike and e-scooter rental services. During the warmer months, many residents use these modes of transportation for their daily commutes to work or school.

Popular services include Bolt, CycloCity, and other local operators. The cost of a short ride on an electric scooter is usually between 1 and 5 euros, depending on the length of the route.

Driving in Lithuania

Many Ukrainians continue to use their own cars after moving to Lithuania. The country’s road infrastructure is well-developed, and most highways for passenger cars are toll-free.

Costs for drivers:

• gasoline — 1.4–1.7 euros per liter;
• diesel fuel — 1.3–1.6 euros per liter;
• parking in the centers of major cities — 1–4 euros per hour.

In most cities, parking in central areas is paid. The cost depends on the zone and can range from 0.5 to 4 euros per hour. Payment is usually made through parking meters or mobile apps.

If you plan to obtain or renew a driver’s license in Lithuania, you should know that starting in 2026, you will be able to take the written driver’s license exam in Ukrainian. This significantly simplifies the adjustment process for Ukrainians who have just arrived in the country. For more details, see this link.

What Do Drivers Need to Know?

The Lithuanian police strictly enforce traffic laws. They pay particular attention to speeding, using a cell phone while driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol.

The most common fines are issued for:

• speeding;
• improper parking;
• using a phone without a hands-free device;
• running a red light;
• lack of mandatory insurance.

If you are driving a car registered in Ukraine, we also recommend that you familiarize yourself with the vehicle insurance rules in Lithuania and the specifics of using Ukrainian insurance policies.

Car Insurance

For cars registered in Ukraine, you must have a valid Green Card while in Lithuania. Without it, driving a vehicle in the country may result in fines and other legal consequences.

🟢 You can purchase a Green Card online in just a few minutes on the Visit Ukraine website. This will allow you to use your car without any problems in Lithuania and other European countries.

If you’re planning a long-term stay and regular trips by car, it’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself in advance with local regulations regarding vehicle registration, insurance, and taxation.

Opening a bank account is one of the first practical steps after moving to Lithuania. You’ll need a bank account to receive your salary, pay rent and utilities, sign up for a cell phone plan, and use most online services. The Lithuanian banking system is considered one of the most modern in Europe, and most financial transactions are carried out online via mobile apps.

Which banks are popular in Lithuania?

The country’s largest banks are Swedbank, SEB, and Šiaulių Bankas. They serve most local residents and offer a wide range of services for individuals and businesses.

In addition to traditional banks, digital financial services are widely used in Lithuania. Revolut and Wise remain particularly popular among foreigners, as they allow for fast international money transfers and the use of accounts in various currencies.

How do I open a bank account?

To open an account, a foreigner usually needs to verify their identity and the purpose of their stay in the country. The specific list of documents may vary depending on the bank and your immigration status.

In most cases, you will need to provide:

• a foreign passport;
• a residence permit or a document confirming legal residence in Lithuania;
• proof of address;
• an employment contract or other document explaining the purpose of opening the account.

Some banks may require additional documents in accordance with financial monitoring and anti-money laundering requirements.

Online Banking and Mobile Apps

Lithuania is one of the most digitally advanced countries in the European Union. Most banking transactions can be carried out via a mobile app without visiting a branch. Through online banking, customers pay bills, transfer funds, apply for cards, and receive statements.

Mobile-ID, Smart-ID, or other electronic identification methods are often used to confirm transactions. That is why, after opening an account, many residents immediately activate these services for daily use.

Fees and Services

Most Lithuanian banks offer basic service packages with a monthly fee. Depending on the institution, this fee typically ranges from 1 to 5 euros per month and includes a debit card, online banking, and standard transfers in euros.

Transfers between accounts within the European Union are usually processed through the SEPA system and are often free or subject to a minimal fee.

Foreign Exchange Transactions and International Money Transfers

Since Lithuania is part of the Eurozone, all major transactions are conducted in euros. International money transfers between Ukraine and EU countries remain particularly relevant for Ukrainians.

For regular foreign exchange transactions, many expats use services like Wise or Revolut, which often offer more favorable exchange rates compared to traditional banks.

What should newcomers know?

When opening an account, the bank may ask additional questions about your source of income, place of employment, or planned financial transactions.

This is standard practice in EU countries and is related to financial control requirements.

It’s also worth noting that certain banking products may not be available immediately after moving. For example, to get a loan or a mortgage, you usually need to have a certain credit history and a stable income in Lithuania.

⚖️ If you need help preparing documents to open an account, confirming your residency status, or with other issues related to legalizing your stay, you should consult an immigration lawyer. The experts at Visit Ukraine will help you navigate local requirements and prepare the necessary set of documents.

Lithuania is among the European Union countries with the best digital infrastructure. High-speed mobile internet is available not only in major cities but also in most small towns. Ukrainians usually adapt quickly, since it takes just one day to buy a SIM card, set up home internet, or sign up for a mobile plan.

Mobile Network Operators

There are three major operators on the Lithuanian market:

• Telia;
• Bitė;
• Tele2.

All of them provide high-quality 4G coverage throughout the country and are actively expanding their 5G networks. The differences between the operators mainly lie in the cost of rate plans, additional services, and coverage quality in specific regions.

For most users, connection quality remains high regardless of the operator they choose.

Prepaid or Contract?

Newly arrived foreigners most often start with prepaid plans, as these do not require a long-term contract or a credit check.

The average cost of prepaid plans is:

• 5–10 euros per month for basic services;
• 10–20 euros per month for plans with a large data allowance;
• 20–30 euros per month for unlimited data and calls.

After obtaining a residence permit, many residents switch to contract plans, which often offer more services at a lower price.

eSIM and Activation

Most Lithuanian carriers support eSIM technology. This is especially convenient for those who do not want to use a physical SIM card or have a smartphone that supports digital profiles.

Setup usually takes only a few minutes via the carrier’s mobile app or in the personal account section on its website.

Home Internet

Lithuania traditionally ranks high in global internet speed rankings. Fiber-optic networks are available in most cities, providing a stable connection for work, study, and online entertainment.

The cost of home internet is:

• 10–20 euros per month for basic plans;
• 20–35 euros per month for high-speed fiber-optic connections.

In many cases, providers offer bundled packages that combine mobile service, home internet, and TV.

What should you pay attention to after moving?

Before choosing a provider, check the quality of coverage specifically in your area. In large cities, the difference is almost imperceptible, but in remote areas, certain networks may offer more stable service.

If you plan to travel frequently within the EU, pay attention to roaming terms. Most Lithuanian rate plans operate under the “Roam Like at Home” principle, which allows you to use mobile service and the internet within the European Union without additional charges, provided you stay within the established limits.

Having stable internet and high-quality mobile service makes it much easier to adjust to life in Lithuania, as most government services, banking transactions, and everyday services are gradually moving online.

For families with children, access to education is one of the most important issues after moving to a new country. Lithuania offers a well-developed system of preschool and school education, and Ukrainian children have the right to attend public schools under the same conditions as Lithuanian citizens. At the same time, parents should familiarize themselves in advance with the specifics of enrollment, language adaptation, and possible waiting lists for certain educational institutions.

Kindergartens

Both public and private kindergartens operate in Lithuania. Demand is highest in Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda, so in some areas, a spot in a public kindergarten may not be available immediately.

Public institutions remain the most popular option due to their affordability. Parents typically pay for meals and certain additional services, while the municipality covers most of the costs.

Costs are as follows:

• public kindergarten — 30–100 euros per month, depending on the city and the number of days attended;
• private kindergarten — 300–800 euros per month.

School Education

Education in public schools is free. Children of foreign nationals can enroll in school regardless of citizenship, provided they are legally residing in the country.

Parents are usually required to provide:

• a document confirming the child’s identity;
• proof of residence;
• documents regarding previous education (if available);
• a medical certificate in accordance with the school’s requirements.

In major cities, there are both Lithuanian-language schools and international schools where instruction is conducted in English.

Adaptation of Ukrainian Children

After the outbreak of full-scale war, Lithuania introduced additional support mechanisms for Ukrainian schoolchildren. Many schools offer adaptation programs, psychological support, and additional Lithuanian language classes.

For children who do not speak Lithuanian, schools often organize individual support or preparatory language courses. This allows them to gradually integrate into the educational process without an excessive workload.

Extracurricular Education and Clubs

Lithuanian municipalities actively support children’s sports, creative activities, and informal education. Children can attend sports clubs, music schools, art studios, and language courses.

The following institutions are available in many cities:

• soccer and basketball clubs;
• music schools;
• dance clubs;
• art studios;
• robotics and programming clubs.

Some of these programs are funded by municipalities, so they are free or cost parents a nominal fee.

Higher Education

Lithuania also attracts international students thanks to its relatively affordable tuition and degrees that are recognized throughout the European Union. The most well-known institutions of higher education are Vilnius University, Kaunas University of Technology, and Vytautas Magnus University.

Many programs are taught in English, which makes studying there attractive to students from other countries.

What should parents know?

It’s best to start looking for a spot in a preschool or school right after moving, especially if you plan to live in a large city. It’s also worth noting that knowledge of the Lithuanian language greatly facilitates a child’s integration into the educational environment and communication with peers.

The Lithuanian education system is focused on the gradual adaptation of children and close cooperation between schools and parents, so Ukrainian families usually integrate into the local educational environment quite quickly.

Lithuania’s healthcare system combines public and private medical facilities and is considered one of the most advanced in the Baltic states. For Ukrainians planning to move to this country or already living there, it is important to understand how health insurance works, which services are covered by the state, and in what situations an additional insurance policy may be needed.

The Public Healthcare System

The foundation of the healthcare system is the PSD (Privalomasis sveikatos draudimas) mandatory health insurance program. Individuals who are officially employed in Lithuania and pay social insurance contributions automatically become participants in this system and gain access to most public healthcare services.

Having PSD insurance allows you to:

• choose a family doctor;
• receive specialist consultations with a referral;
• undergo examinations and diagnostics;
• receive treatment at public hospitals;
• receive reimbursement for the cost of certain medications.

After registration, patients are assigned a specific family doctor who coordinates further treatment and refers the patient to the appropriate specialists.

Healthcare Services for Ukrainians

Special conditions apply to Ukrainians residing in Lithuania under temporary protection who have been granted a residence permit. They can use the public healthcare system on an equal footing with Lithuanian residents, even without formal employment. This allows them to receive care from a family doctor, emergency medical care, specialist consultations, and other services provided for by law.

That is why, once they have obtained the necessary documents, most Ukrainians can use the public

healthcare system without having to purchase expensive private insurance policies.

Private Healthcare

Despite the availability of the public healthcare system, private healthcare is also very popular. The main reason is faster access to doctor’s appointments and the ability to get a consultation without a long wait.

Private clinics offer virtually all types of medical services, and the cost of an initial consultation typically ranges from 40 to 100 euros, depending on the specialist and the city.

In Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda, there are many modern medical centers where the staff often speaks English or Russian, which makes it much easier for foreigners to adapt.

Pharmacies and Prescriptions

Pharmacies are widespread throughout the country and operate in both large shopping centers and residential areas. Many medications are dispensed with an electronic prescription issued by a doctor through the national healthcare system.

For individuals insured under the PSD system, the government may reimburse the cost of certain medications. Common over-the-counter medications for colds, pain, allergies, and other ailments can be purchased without a prescription.

Is international insurance required?

For Ukrainians with temporary protection status, an international insurance policy is usually most relevant when processing documents upon arrival in the country. It can also be useful when traveling to other European Union countries or for obtaining additional insurance coverage not provided by the state system.

🩺 You can purchase international health insurance online through Visit Ukraine. The policy will come in handy when traveling in Europe and will help you avoid unexpected medical expenses.

If you’re planning a trip to Lithuania or moving there on a visa, we also recommend that you familiarize yourself with the health insurance requirements for different categories of foreign nationals.

What should you know before visiting a doctor?

In public healthcare facilities, it may take some time to get an appointment with certain specialists, especially in large cities. That’s why many residents combine public and private healthcare services depending on the situation.

If you plan to stay in Lithuania for an extended period, we recommend registering with the healthcare system and choosing a primary care physician as soon as possible. This will significantly simplify your access to medical services in the future.

For more detailed information on public health insurance (PSD), scheduling doctor’s appointments, emergency medical care, reimbursement for medication costs, and treatment specifics, see the separate section “Healthcare in Lithuania.”

Moving to Lithuania is usually relatively straightforward for Ukrainians thanks to the geographical proximity, similar mindset, and a sizable Ukrainian community. However, even after sorting out housing, paperwork, and employment, there are still quite a few practical details that affect the comfort of daily life.

The Most Common Fines

In Lithuania, great attention is paid to maintaining public order and enforcing traffic rules. Most fines can be paid online, but the amounts can be substantial even for minor violations.

Residents and foreigners most often face the following fines:

• speeding—from 12 to several hundred euros, depending on the violation;
• using a cell phone while driving—from 60 euros;
• illegal parking—from 30 euros;
• riding public transportation without a ticket—from 8 to 30 euros;
• violation of waste disposal rules—from 30 euros;
• disturbing the peace or consuming alcohol in prohibited areas—from 20 euros.

Special attention should be paid to parking in city centers and obeying traffic rules, as enforcement is carried out by both the police and automated systems.

Learning Lithuanian

Although many Lithuanians, especially young people, speak English well, knowledge of Lithuanian greatly facilitates integration, job hunting, and handling everyday matters.

The following resources are available to Ukrainians:

• municipal Lithuanian language courses;
• integration programs for foreigners;
• free language courses offered by nongovernmental organizations;
• online platforms for self-study.

In major cities, special adaptation programs are often held for newcomers, combining language learning with an introduction to the country’s culture.

Learning Lithuanian makes it much easier to find a job, communicate with government agencies, and navigate daily life. At the same time, the government continues to implement temporary adaptation measures for Ukrainians under temporary protection. In particular, the introduction of mandatory language proficiency requirements has been postponed for certain categories of workers. You can read more about these changes in a separate article.

Leisure and Recreation

Lithuania offers countless opportunities for active recreation regardless of the season. The country has a well-developed network of parks, bike trails, sports centers, and cultural venues.

Popular leisure activities include:

• strolling through the historic districts of Vilnius and Kaunas;
• spending time on the Baltic Sea coast in Palanga and Nida;
• visiting museums, theaters, and concerts;
• cycling routes in national parks;
• sports clubs and fitness centers.

Average cost of leisure activities:

• movie ticket — 7–12 euros;
• gym membership — 25–60 euros per month;
• museum admission — 5–15 euros;
• coffee at a café — 2–4 euros;

• dinner at a mid-range restaurant — 15–35 euros per person.

The Ukrainian Community and Adaptation

There is a sizable Ukrainian community in Lithuania, especially in Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda. Many cities have Ukrainian cultural centers, community organizations, and volunteer initiatives that help newcomers find the information they need and adjust to their new surroundings.

Ukrainian festivals, charity events, and cultural activities are also held regularly, allowing people to stay connected to their culture even after moving abroad.

Useful Tips for Newcomers

To settle in more quickly, you should:

• get all the necessary documents in order as soon as possible;
• open a bank account and set up online banking;
• gradually learn the Lithuanian language;
• use official government resources;
• get involved in local and Ukrainian communities.

Many Ukrainians note that Lithuania is one of the most welcoming EU countries for settling in, thanks to its straightforward bureaucratic system, high level of digitalization, and friendly attitude toward foreigners.

Services from Visit Ukraine for Ukrainians in Lithuania

Moving to a new country always involves a multitude of organizational issues. On the Visit Ukraine website, you can:

• purchase health insurance;
• get advice from an immigration lawyer;
• obtain a Green Card for your car;
• purchase bus, train, or plane tickets;
• find up-to-date information on residency rules, required documents, and adapting to life in Lithuania.

For Ukrainians, life in Lithuania remains one of the most comfortable options for settling in the European Union. Thanks to cultural similarities, well-developed infrastructure, and access to European social services, many families successfully integrate into local society within the first few months after moving. With proper preparation and support, the adaptation process is much easier, and Visit Ukraine’s services will help you address key issues at every stage of your life abroad.