Moving to Lithuania as an international student
In short
Moving to Lithuania as an international student means three steps in order: secure your university offer, sort your legal status (a visa or residence permit, depending on whether you are EU, non-EU or Erasmus), then arrange accommodation, insurance, a bank account and transport. Always confirm current fees and timelines on the official migration sources.
Moving to Lithuania as an international student comes down to three things in order: get your university offer, sort your legal status (visa and/or residence), and arrange the practical basics — accommodation, insurance, a bank account and transport. This guide walks through it for EU, non-EU and Erasmus/exchange students.
First: which path are you on?
The steps differ a lot depending on your situation.
| Your status | Visa needed? | What you'll arrange |
|---|---|---|
| EU / EEA / EFTA | No | Register + certificate of temporary residence if staying over 90 days |
| Non-EU degree-seeking | Usually yes (national D visa) | National D visa and/or a temporary residence permit (TRP) |
| Erasmus / exchange (non-EU) | Usually a national D visa | D visa for the exchange period; your home and host universities help |
Start early
Step 1: Get accepted and pay your fees
- Apply to your chosen programme (many universities use their own portal; English-taught programmes are listed on studyin.lt).
- Receive your (conditional) acceptance letter.
- Pay the tuition/registration fee for your first year if required — this often unlocks the next step.
Deadlines vary, but a common pattern is an earlier cut-off for non-EU applicants (who need time for immigration) and around 1 August for EU applicants. Check your programme's exact dates.
Step 2: Sort your legal status
If you're an EU/EEA/EFTA citizen
You can enter Lithuania freely. For stays over 90 days you must register with the Migration Department within three months and obtain a certificate confirming the right of temporary residence. You'll typically need proof of student status, proof of funds, and health cover (your EHIC or private insurance).
If you're a non-EU citizen (degree-seeking)
Since 2023, full-time degree students generally apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) rather than just a visa. Many students now apply from their home country via VFS Global before arrival, then collect biometrics. The typical flow:
- University uploads your documents to the migration system and gives you a mediation letter number.
- You apply for the TRP (often through VFS Global), submitting passport, proof of funds, health insurance, accommodation proof and a police clearance certificate.
- You give biometrics and, once approved, declare your place of residence.
Funds and insurance, roughly
If you're an Erasmus / exchange student
Non-EU exchange students usually travel on a national D visa for the exchange period rather than a TRP, and exchange students are often exempt from some state fees. Your home university's international office coordinates with the host — follow their checklist.
Confirm the numbers before you rely on them
Step 3: Accommodation
You have two main options:
- University dormitories — the cheapest and simplest, and the easiest to arrange before arrival. Apply early through your international office; places are limited.
- Private rental — more freedom and privacy, but you'll need a lease, a deposit and usually a Lithuanian address before some services (and your residence declaration) will work.
A signed lease or a dormitory confirmation letter doubles as the accommodation proof you need for your residence documents, so lock this in early.
Step 4: The practical first weeks
Budget realistically. Typical student costs run about €350–€750 depending on city (Vilnius is pricier than Kaunas) and whether you're in a dorm or a private flat.
Once you arrive, work through this short checklist:
- Declare your place of residence — at the Migration Department during your biometrics appointment, or at your local municipality, usually within a month.
- Get a Lithuanian SIM — prepaid SIMs are cheap and make everything else easier.
- Open a bank account — bring your passport, residence document and proof of a Lithuanian address (lease or dorm letter).
- Sort transport — students get discounted public transport passes (JUDU in Vilnius, the Kaunas transport system in Kaunas); an ISIC card is widely accepted for student discounts.
- Register at your faculty and confirm your health insurance is active.
One thing at a time
Quick recap
- Decide your path first: EU, non-EU degree, or Erasmus — the rules differ.
- Get your offer and mediation letter, then start your visa/residence process immediately.
- Line up accommodation early; it underpins your residence declaration.
- After arrival: declare your address, get a SIM, open a bank account, sort transport.
- Verify all fees, funds and timelines on the official sources before you rely on them.
Frequently asked
Do EU students need a visa to study in Lithuania?+
No. EU/EEA/EFTA citizens can enter and live in Lithuania without a visa, but if you stay over 90 days you must register and get a certificate of temporary residence.
When are the application deadlines?+
They vary by university, but a common pattern is around 1 July for EU applicants and earlier (mid-June or sooner) for non-EU applicants who need a residence permit. Always check your specific programme.
Can I work while I study?+
Non-EU students on a residence permit can usually work part-time during term (commonly cited as up to 20 hours per week). EU students have no such cap. Confirm the current rule before relying on it.
How long does the residence permit take?+
Plan for up to 2-3 months. Start as soon as you have your acceptance and mediation letter — do not leave it until the last minute.
Do I need a Lithuanian personal code to open a bank account?+
Most banks want proof of a Lithuanian address and your residence document. Your personal code is assigned during the residence permit process, so banking is usually easier once that is underway.