Entry and Schengen
Lithuania is in the Schengen Area. For many visa-free non-EU visitors, the short-stay rule is up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen Area, not 90 days per country. If you need a Schengen visa, apply before travel and wait for the visa before booking non-refundable plans. ETIAS is scheduled by the EU to start in the last quarter of 2026 for visa-exempt travellers. It is not a visa, but it will become a pre-travel authorisation requirement when active.
Passport and border basics
Use a passport or travel document valid for Schengen entry. Border officers can ask about purpose of travel, accommodation, funds, return or onward travel and travel insurance. There are no routine internal border checks when entering from Latvia or Poland, but external Schengen rules still apply if you arrive from outside the area.
Emergency numbers and safety
Call 112 for police, fire, medical emergency and environmental emergency response. The number is free, works 24/7, and can be called from mobile, landline or payphone. Lithuania is generally safe for visitors; use normal city precautions around transport stations, nightlife streets and crowded events.
Money and payments
Lithuania uses the euro. Cards and contactless payments are normal in cities, hotels, restaurants and most transport contexts. Carry a small cash backup for markets, rural kiosks or small seasonal businesses.
Language, SIM and eSIM
Lithuanian is the official language. English is workable in central city travel settings, especially with younger staff. EU roaming works for EU/EEA visitors under normal roaming rules. Non-EU visitors can use a travel eSIM or buy a local prepaid SIM, but local SIM registration or identity checks may apply.
Driving basics
Drive on the right. Seat belts are required. Headlights should be used in daytime. Winter tyres are required in the winter season, and weather can make rural roads slow even when distances look short. Do not bring a car into Vilnius Old Town unless your hotel has clear parking instructions.