Lithuania
Startup Visa & fintech hub
Lithuania has emerged as Europe's top fintech hub, with more licensed fintech companies than any other EU country. The Startup Visa attracts founders, while Vilnius offers affordable living, excellent English, and a compact, walkable capital. EU and Schengen member with a welcoming tech community.
Our framework evaluates Lithuania across 6 strategic pillars. Each pillar answers a key question that matters when planning your relocation strategy.
Profile Weight Distribution
How we score: Six strategic pillars with weighted sub-factors. Confidence indicators show data quality (●●● = verified, ●●○ = researched, ●○○ = editorial). Read our full methodology
Profile weighting: Different expat profiles prioritize different pillars. Select your profile above to see personalized rankings.
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Immigration Overview
Lithuania punched above its weight in fintech, becoming the EU's licensing capital for payment institutions and e-money companies. If you're in fintech or considering a European fintech business, Lithuania offers regulatory infrastructure, a supportive central bank, and a business environment designed for the sector.
Beyond fintech, Vilnius is a pleasant, affordable capital with baroque old town (UNESCO site), good restaurants, and a growing international community. English proficiency is high, especially among younger Lithuanians. Winters are cold, but the city has warmth.
Visa & Residency Pathways
Startup Visa
For founders of innovative businesses
- Innovative, scalable business plan
- Evaluation by Startup Lithuania
- 2-year permit initially
- Access to Lithuanian startup ecosystem
Business Immigration
For company founders and directors
- Register Lithuanian company (UAB)
- Be director or shareholder
- Minimum capital requirements
- Renewable residence permit
Work Permit
For skilled workers with job offers
- Employer sponsorship
- EU Blue Card for highly skilled
- Shortage list simplifies some roles
- Path to permanent residence
Lithuanian Nationality
After 10 years of residence
- 10 years legal residence required
- Lithuanian language test
- Constitution knowledge test
- Generally must renounce previous citizenship
Why Lithuania?
Fintech Capital
More fintech licenses than any EU country. Bank of Lithuania is fintech-friendly. Regulatory sandbox available.
Affordable Living
Vilnius costs well below Western Europe. Good value apartments, dining, entertainment.
Baroque Vilnius
UNESCO old town. Beautiful architecture. Compact and walkable. Green spaces throughout.
Full EU Access
EU, Schengen, Euro zone. All benefits of European membership. Strong passport.
Excellent English
High English proficiency. Business commonly conducted in English. Integration straightforward.
Safe & Modern
Very low crime. Modern infrastructure. Efficient government services. Things work.
General Requirements
Common requirements for Lithuanian residence:
- Valid passport
- Business plan or employment contract
- Proof of financial means
- Health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Clean criminal record
Lithuania's immigration system is efficient by EU standards. The Startup Visa process involves evaluation but is straightforward for genuine founders. Fintech companies benefit from regulatory support. We help you navigate the options.
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