Digital Nomad Life in Lithuania
Summary: Lithuania is becoming increasingly popular as a destination for digital nomads. The most popular cities for digital nomads in Lithuania are Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipeda. Digital nomads like living in Lithuania because of its low cost of living, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant culture. A digital nomad can live comfortably in Lithuania on a monthly budget of around $1,500 USD. The culture of Lithuania is a mix of traditional and modern influences, with a strong emphasis on family and community. Popular foods in Lithuania include cepelinai (potato dumplings), kugelis (potato pudding), and skilandis (smoked sausage).
How do I meet people in Lithuania?
When we asked people living in Lithuania about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Lithuania often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals alike," said one expat in Lithuania.
What is life like in Lithuania?
When we asked people living in Lithuania what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Lithuania is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its friendly people, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide range of activities to enjoy, from exploring the country's many historical sites to taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing. The cost of living is also relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad. Additionally, Lithuania has a strong digital infrastructure, making it an ideal place for digital nomads to work remotely," said one person in Lithuania.
"This is a very typical Lithuanian city. There is a very small international population. Most people have lived in this city all of their lives and can recognize a lot of their friends by simply walking down the street," said one expat who made the move to Alytus.
Where should I live in Lithuania?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"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 person in 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," said one expat who made the move to Lithuania.
What do I need to know before moving to Lithuania?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Lithuania, they said:
"Living in Alytus is very cheap. A simple apartment will run you a fraction of what it does in other European countries. For a foreigner first moving to Alytus will cause great culture shock but after some getting used to you will really love the small details that makes this city great," remarked one member in Alytus.
"Expats considering retiring in Lithuania should be aware that the country is part of the Schengen Area, meaning that a valid visa is required for stays of more than 90 days. Expats should also be aware that the official language of Lithuania is Lithuanian, although English is widely spoken in the larger cities. It is also important to note that the cost of living in Lithuania is generally lower than in other European countries, making it an attractive option for retirees. Additionally, expats should be aware that the healthcare system in Lithuania is generally of a high standard, although private healthcare is also available. Finally, expats should be aware that the climate in Lithuania is generally cold and wet, with temperatures rarely rising above 20°C in the summer months," explained one expat living in Lithuania.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Lithuania?
"Expats in Lithuania appreciate the country's rich cultural heritage, which includes a variety of traditional music, art, and literature. They also enjoy the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals, who are always willing to help out and share their culture with visitors. Additionally, expats appreciate the country's stunning natural beauty, with its rolling hills, forests, and lakes. Finally, they enjoy the vibrant nightlife and the variety of restaurants and bars that offer a range of international cuisines," explained one expat living in Lithuania.
"It's cleaner, more peaceful than in the UK. There seems to be less friction in the air, and it's almost like going back in time to a simpler life. The countryside can be quite beautiful in a truly unspoilt manner, and the children are delightful. I'm also very grateful for the high-speed reliable internet connection, which keeps me sane and allows me to manage our lives back in the UK," said one person in Visaginas.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Lithuania?
"Expats in Lithuania often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Lithuanian is a unique language, and many expats find it difficult to learn and understand. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate for those who are not familiar with them. Expats may also find it difficult to adjust to the slower pace of life in Lithuania, as well as the colder climate," said one expat who made the move to Lithuania.
"Without doubt, the language. I can get most of the things I need, although good quality clothing and bedding are in short supply here. I also miss the opportunity to meet new people, there is a lack of 'cultural opportunity' in this town," explained one foreigner living in Visaginas, Lithuania.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Lithuania for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Lithuania for a while, you will need to apply for a residence permit. Depending on the purpose of your stay, you may need to apply for a temporary residence permit, a permanent residence permit, or a long-term visa. You will need to provide documents such as a valid passport, proof of financial means, proof of health insurance, and a valid address in Lithuania. You may also need to provide additional documents depending on the type of residence permit or visa you are applying for," explained one person living in Lithuania.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Lithuania?
We asked people in Lithuania if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"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 person in 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," said one expat who made the move to Visaginas.
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What are healthcare services like in Lithuania?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Lithuania, they replied:
"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," explained one person living in 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," wrote one digital nomad living in Lithuania.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Lithuania?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Lithuania appreciate the country's low cost of living, which allows them to stretch their budget further. They also enjoy the vibrant culture, with its many festivals, events, and activities. Additionally, the country's excellent public transportation system makes it easy to get around. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads find the language barrier to be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken. Additionally, the weather can be quite cold and grey during the winter months," wrote one digital nomad living in Lithuania.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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