🇱🇹
Daily life in Lithuania
Daily life in Lithuania becomes much easier once you have your local ID or tax number, address registration, health cover and a safe way to ask official questions.
Everyday offices in Lithuania
VMI — Valstybinė mokesčių inspekcija: Tax ID. SODRA: Social insurance. Lietuvos Raudonasis Kryžius: Migrant integration support.
Numbers, banking and benefits
Residence permit: Fill Migracija online application, submit at MIGRIS centre. Fee ~€120 standard. Biometrics — In-person at MIGRIS. Card arrives 30–60 days. Address — Declare at Registrų centras via seniūnija or e-services. Health insurance: PSD contribution ~€53/month for self-insured, auto for employees. Register with a GP — Free family doctor at any polyclinic; bring residence permit + insurance proof. Your rights: Equal Opportunities Ombudsperson enforces anti-discrimination. Ombudsperson — lygybe.lt — free, multilingual complaint form. Violence — Pagalbos moterims linija 8 800 66366, free 24/7.
Safety, legal help and discrimination
Emergency number: 112. Support line: 8 800 66366 (pagalbos moterims). If you face discrimination, domestic violence, wage theft or housing abuse, ask a legal-aid office, equality body or migrant NGO for free confidential help.
Settling into local routines
Learn the waste-sorting rules, transport pass options, quiet-hour customs, school contact habits and basic phrases in Lithuanian. Small local routines reduce stress and make neighbours, teachers and offices more helpful.
Frequently asked questions
What should I organise first after arriving in Lithuania?
Start with address registration, residence or ID paperwork, health cover, a bank account if possible, and the key numbers used for tax or social security.
Which office should I contact first in Lithuania?
Start with VMI — Valstybinė mokesčių inspekcija. For broader newcomer help, also check Migracijos departamentas, VMI — Valstybinė mokesčių inspekcija, SODRA.
What language will offices use in Lithuania?
The main administrative language is Lithuanian. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Can I use my home country driving licence?
EU licences are valid across the EU. Non-EU licences are usually valid for 6–12 months, after which you must exchange or retake the test.
Is tap water safe?
Yes, tap water is safe and highly regulated across the EU.