Moving to Lithuania

"Lithuania is a small country located in the Baltic region of Northern Europe. It is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, so expats should make sure they have the necessary documents to enter the country. Expats should also be aware that the official language is Lithuanian, although English is widely spoken in the larger cities. The cost of living in Lithuania is relatively low, and the country offers a wide range of cultural activities and attractions. Expats should also be aware that the climate in Lithuania is generally cold and wet, with temperatures ranging from -20°C in winter to +20°C in summer. Finally, expats should be aware that the healthcare system in Lithuania is generally good, although private healthcare is also available," said one expat in Lithuania.

"Language is critical. You probably will not succeed or even stay if you do not know the language. Let a local to handle as many of the transactions as possible. A spouse or girl/boyfriend is best for this," said one expat who made the move to Vilnius.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Lithuania is to use online resources such as websites and real estate agents. Websites such as Realigro, Domoplius, and Aruodas are great for finding apartments, houses, and other types of accommodation. Additionally, real estate agents can be a great resource for finding a place to live in Lithuania, as they can provide more personalized advice and assistance. Additionally, it is also possible to find accommodation through word of mouth, by asking friends and family who may know of available properties," remarked one expat in Lithuania.

"Actually my wife at that time chose this flat due to location. Things to watch out for: a seedy neighbourhood, top and bottom floors, brand-new flats (sub-standard fixtures and settling can cause serious damage), and no shade. The sun can get pretty hot here and if you have no balcony overhand or trees to block the summer sun, June/July can get pretty warm on occasion. Insist on a steel door," said one expat in Vilnius.

"Expat homes and apartments in Lithuania tend to be modern and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and open spaces. Many expats choose to live in the city center, where they can enjoy easy access to public transportation, restaurants, and other amenities. Expat apartments often come with modern appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, as well as high-speed internet. Expats may also find that their apartments come with balconies or terraces, providing a great place to relax and enjoy the views," said one expat who made the move to Lithuania.

"I live in a flat. Houses have only recently come into fashion. So expect to live in a flat, which is considerably cheaper than a house," explained one expat living in Vilnius, Lithuania.

"Probably higher since a run down flat in Vilnius a couple of years ago cost nerly as much a modern flat in Stockholm, only our wages are consideraby lower than those in Sweden. The Lithuanian ex-pats sending money back home to invest are what is driving the real estate market," said one expat in Vilnius.

"The average cost of housing in Lithuania is generally considered to be quite affordable compared to other European countries. Prices vary depending on the location and size of the property, but generally, a one-bedroom apartment in a city centre can cost around €400-600 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment in a suburban area can cost around €500-800 per month," remarked one expat who made the move to Lithuania.

"Buying a home in Lithuania can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and a growing real estate market. However, it is important to consider the costs associated with buying a home, such as closing costs, taxes, and maintenance. Renting a home in Lithuania can be a more affordable option, as it does not require a large upfront investment. Additionally, renting can provide more flexibility, as it allows you to move more easily if your circumstances change. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Lithuania should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," remarked one expat in Lithuania.

"When moving to Lithuania, it is important to pack warm clothing, as the climate is cold and wet. It is also important to bring a good raincoat and umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few items of traditional Lithuanian clothing, such as a linen shirt or a woolen sweater, to help you fit in with the locals. It is also important to bring a valid passport and any necessary visas or permits. Finally, it is a good idea to bring a few items of comfort from home, such as books, photos, or music, to help you feel at home in your new country," remarked one expat in Lithuania.

"You can get pretty much everything here, but it might take you a while to find it. One thing that is hard to find are the little things like a nylon bag pacifier to give a baby a piece of apple with. Buying a computer here is a chancy thing as they often offer sale computers with a few obsolete parts, that complicate use. My laptop, for example, has a French keeyboard. Electronics seem to be a lot more expensive here as well. Foods are different here and while major brands may be available, your local favourite foods may not be. The latest DVDs and books will probably not be available here for a while or at all. Wrist/ankle wallets are not available here. Things to leave behind. Most of your clothing. You can get inexpensive, good quality clothes at the used clothing shops. Tons of books. Some used clothing shops do a good job of selling used English books. Only take those you need immediately or are rarer. Most of your tools. You can find most of them here. But good quality hand tools like carving chisels go ahead and bring," said one expat in Vilnius.

"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Lithuania. It is considered rude to be late for appointments, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress conservatively, as revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. It is also important to be aware of the local customs and traditions, and to show respect for them. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language, and to avoid speaking loudly or using offensive language. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local cuisine, and to avoid eating with your hands or making loud noises while eating," said one expat who made the move to Lithuania.

"I've become paranoid about gender and toilet facilities - I assumed that most washrooms would be unisex as they are throughout mainland Europe, so I blithely sailed into more than one 'gents' by mistake, which embarrassed the occupants more than it did me," explained one expat living in Visaginas, Lithuania.

"Lithuania is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, low cost of living, and excellent quality of life. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty, with forests, lakes, and the Baltic Sea all within easy reach. Lithuania also offers a great education system, with a wide range of universities and colleges offering courses in English. Additionally, the country is home to a thriving business environment, with a number of international companies based in the capital city of Vilnius. With its welcoming people, vibrant cities, and stunning countryside, Lithuania is an ideal destination for expats looking for a new home," replied one expat when asked about moving to Lithuania.

"Lithuania offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive care. The public healthcare system in Lithuania is funded by the government and is free for all citizens. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents are also able to access the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Lithuania can use the public healthcare system by registering with the local municipality and obtaining a health insurance card. This card allows them to access the same services as Lithuanian citizens, although they may need to pay for some services," stated one expat who made the move to Lithuania.

"Understand that health care in Lithuania is hit and miss, depending on who you are and where you live - health care providers here are often poorly paid, poorly motivated, and irresponsible," remarked one expat in Lithuania.

"Lithuania has a well-developed healthcare system, providing a wide range of medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of public hospitals and clinics, as well as private medical facilities, offering a variety of medical services such as general practice, specialist care, emergency services, and preventive health care. Lithuania also has a number of specialized medical centers, providing specialized care in areas such as oncology, cardiology, and neurology. In addition, Lithuania has a number of medical research centers, which are dedicated to the development of new treatments and technologies," commented one expat living in Lithuania.