Lithuania — Visas and Healthcare
Passports and Visas
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Additionally, non-EEA foreign passengers to Lithuania must hold (i) return/onward tickets, (ii) the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, (iii) sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country, and (iv) valid health and travel insurance, to cover any medical expenses incurred while in Lithuania. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Americans
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Lithuania. No visa is required, for stays of up to 90 days.
UK Nationals
British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Lithuania. A visa is not required for passports endorsed British Citizen. No visa is required for a stay of up to 90 days for holders of passports endorsed British National (overseas), British Overseas Territories Citizen (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom), and British Subject (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom).
Canadians
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Lithuania. No visa is required, for stays of up to 90 days.
Australians
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Lithuania. No visa is required, for stays of up to 90 days.
South Africans
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Lithuania. A visa is required. Note that holders of a copy of a visa application can obtain a visa on arrival, for a maximum stay of 10 days. Visa applications must be submitted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the State Border Guard Service; or by the Ministry of the Interior to the Border Police Deptartment.
Irish Nationals
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Lithuania. No visa is required.
New Zealanders
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Lithuania. No visa is required, for stays of up to 90 days.
Healthcare
The only health risks associated with visiting Lithuania are for those intending to visit forested areas, who are advised to take the necessary precautions against tick-borne encephalitis. EU citizens are entitled to emergency medical treatment if they have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from their country of origin. Medical facilities are fair and there are plenty of doctors, but equipment and resources are lacking. There are a few private clinics of high standard. Doctors and hospitals usually expect immediate cash payment for services. Travel medical insurance is highly recommended.
Safety
Safety in Lithuania is not a major issue for travelers, the country is devoid of civil unrest and the terrorism threat is low. Car theft is rife, and there is a risk of mugging, pick-pocketing and bag snatching especially on public transport. Visitors should exercise due care and avoid carrying valuables. It is advisable to carry a copy of your passport for identification purposes. Traffic accidents are common, so extra vigilance is required for driving, especially at night.
