Lithuania

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 to reach the Lithuanian Emergency Response Center. The center will direct your call to the police, paramedics, or fire department as needed. The center has operators on hand who speak English.
• Dial +370-7005-5516 for the Specialized Complex Assistance Center, Lithuania’s domestic violence hotline. If domestic violence poses a threat to health or life, the center asks that you immediately dial 112. 
• Contact the U.S. Embassy in Vilnius at +370-5-266-5600 to report crimes or emergencies after calling local authorities.

Demonstrations 

Marches and protests occur, especially in larger cities. You should avoid areas where protests are taking place.

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.  
• Avoid areas around demonstrations.  
• Check media and local information sources as well as Embassy Vilnius’s safety and security alerts.

Crime

Crimes of opportunity, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, do occur particularly in areas where tourists and foreigners congregate. Pickpockets often take advantage of crowds getting on and off buses, trams, and trains. Thieves use moving crowds as a distraction.

• Be aware of your surroundings and take routine personal security measures to stay safe.
• Thefts of items from cars and car thefts occur regularly. Do not leave valuables in rental cars.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or less populated areas.
• Only use taxi services arranged by phone, app, or through your hotel.
• Avoid using ATMs in isolated or poorly lit areas. Use indoor bank ATMs when possible and consider the buddy system.
• Foreigners and members of the lesbian and gay community in Lithuania have at times been victims of harassment, physical assaults, and robbery.
• Sexual assault cases are rare, but attacks do occur. Review our information for Women Travelers.

Scams

• Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.
• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams and Internet romance scams are common in Lithuania. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting 

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 112.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime and resources available in Lithuania. 

The U.S. embassy can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault and domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.
• Dial +370 700-55516 for the Specialized Complex Assistance Center, Lithuania’s domestic violence hotline. If domestic violence poses a threat to health or life, the center asks that you immediately dial 112.  

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Be suspicious of unsolicited messages received via Telegram, SMS, and WhatsApp offering employment or easy money.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are strongly recommended to have comprehensive medical and travel insurance, including coverage for medical evacuation. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.  

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
•  You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Lithuanian customs regulations are strict for the temporary importation or export of firearms and antiquities. Contact the Embassy of Lithuania in the United States for specific information about customs requirements.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Lithuania, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.
• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Lithuania are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Driving while intoxicated is a very serious offense and carries heavy penalties.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.  

Counterfeit and pirated goods

 Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
•  You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Lithuania.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

Lithuania’s Law on Equal Treatment prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. This protection applies to people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual, and mental disabilities. The law is in force, but accessibility and implementation can vary, especially outside major cities.

• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

The most common types of accessibility include:

• Reserved parking spaces marked with the wheelchair symbol on roads and in car parks.
• Wheelchair-accessible bathrooms and elevators in airport terminals.
• Some low-floor buses and trolleybuses in cities, marked with special signs.
• Accessibility is more common in public transportation and major facilities in larger cities such as Vilnius and other urban centers. There are low-floor buses and trolleybuses. Airports also provide call buttons and mobility assistance.

Limits in accessibility

• Expect accessibility to be limited in parts of the general infrastructure, particularly outside major urban areas.
• Not all train stations provide free or comprehensive assistance. Not all public buildings or smaller lodging facilities will be fully accessible.
• Outside metropolitan areas, services and infrastructure for travelers with disabilities may be less consistent. Response times for assistance may be longer.

General public sentiment

• People are generally respectful. The laws support equal treatment. However, expectations about independence and the level of assistance available in public settings may be different from those in the United States.
• Travelers who require assistance should plan ahead, contact transportation providers or accommodations in advance, and be prepared to clearly request help when needed.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Lithuania Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 112 for emergency medical services.  

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available. However, training and response time of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.  

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Hospitals in Lithuania typically do not accept U.S. health insurance directly. While you can receive high-quality care, you will likely need to pay out-of-pocket and seek reimbursement later.
• Medical care is not free in Lithuania. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Lithuania.
• Credit card payment is usually available.
• Private hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims. 

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available throughout Lithuania. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics may lack basic resources and supplies. 
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission. Before agreeing to any medical care, travelers should gather full details on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures.  
• Medical staff in some areas may speak little or no English, particularly outside larger cities.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry worldwide. If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States. They don't follow the same rules. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.

• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Lithuania.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications. 
• If you plan to undergo surgery in Lithuania, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available, and professionals are accredited and qualified.  

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Check with the Customs of the Republic of Lithuania to ensure the medication is legal in Lithuania. Some medicines that are legal or over the counter in the United States are regulated differently in Lithuania.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Lithuania to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART), please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

• Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Lithuania. For additional information, visit the Government of Lithuania portal of human rights. 

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking in Lithuania, especially in cities and larger towns where municipal water systems are regulated and monitored.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Lithuania.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• In the winter months, air quality in Lithuania can worsen due to the burning of coal and wood as heating fuels. Visit the Government of Lithuania website for information on air quality.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Main highways between major cities like Vilnius–Kaunas–Klaipėda are generally in good condition. Some secondary and rural roads can be narrow, poorly lit, and have uneven surfaces.

• Traffic signs and markings follow European standards and are clear on main roads.
• Basic vehicle safety requirements exist and are enforced.

Driving at night

• Driving at night on major routes is usually safe.
• Rural roads can be more dangerous, especially in winter. This is due to poor lighting, wildlife, snow, ice, and reduced visibility.

Emergency help

• Dial 112 for emergency services. Operators speak English.
• Response times may be longer in rural areas.  
• Roadside assistance is available through Lithuanian and international auto clubs and some insurers.

Winter driving

• Winter tires or approved all-season tires are required from November 10 to March 31.
• For longer or rural trips, especially in winter, make sure your vehicle is well maintained. 
• Carry basic equipment such as a good spare tire, warning triangle, reflective vest, and cold weather gear. Refuel before driving into remote areas.

Traffic laws 

To drive in Lithuania as a temporary visitor, you must have a valid U.S. driver‘s license and a valid International Driving Permit (IDP). You can get an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA) before leaving the United States.  Long-term residents must get a valid Lithuanian driver’s license.

Basic rules

• Seat belts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers.
• Children under the age of 3 must sit in the back seat in a child seat appropriate for their age and size.
• You must have at least your low beam lights on at all times while driving.
• Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks.
• Always carry a driver’s license, proof of insurance, and registration in your vehicle.

Drinking and driving

• Driving under the influence is considered a very serious offense. It carries heavy penalties.
• The legal limit in Lithuania is the equivalent of 0.04% BAC. However, a zero-tolerance policy (0.00% BAC) applies to novice drivers with less than two years of experience, as well as motorcycle and commercial vehicle drivers.

If you have an accident

By law, you must leave your vehicle where it is, if it’s safe to do so. 

• You must immediately dial 112 for the police.
• Do not rely on bystanders to translate for you.

For 24/7 roadside assistance throughout Lithuania, you may contact private service providers. Please note that these are paid services. Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxi and ride-shares are generally safe and readily available.
• If using taxi services, place a request via phone, app, or your hotel.

Public and commercial transportation

Buses are the main mode of transportation connecting inner cities. Buses and trains are generally safe and widely available.

• As with any crowded system, pickpocketing can occur on buses, trolleybuses, and at stations. Keep valuables secure and be attentive, especially at peak times.
• Visit the website of Lithuania’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety: Lithuanian Transport Safety and Administration.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Lithuania’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.
• FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.  

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Lithuania should check the following: 

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings 
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Severe winter weather

Common from December to March.

• Expect very low temperatures, icy roads and sidewalks, and reduced visibility.
• Winter tires and proper cold-weather clothing are essential.

Heavy rain and localized flooding

Occur from May to October.

• Intense rainstorms in these months can cause temporary flooding of low-lying roads.
• There may be localized transport disruptions.

Storms with strong winds, including Baltic coastal storms

Common from October to March.

• Autumn and winter storms, especially along the Baltic coast, can bring damaging winds, falling branches, and disruptions to coastal travel and ferries.

Seasonal heat waves

Common from July to August.

• Periods of unusually high temperatures can cause heat stress, particularly in urban areas and for vulnerable people.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and 

Embassies and consulates