Guide to Relocating from Nigeria to Lithuania (2024)

Are you considering relocating to Lithuania from Nigeria? Lithuania is a picturesque country located in the northeast of Europe, with a coastline along the east of the Baltic Sea. Although it may not be the most conventional of expat destinations, its charming forested landscape punctuated by lakes and rivers has given many an expat a good reason to stay. If you are interested in moving to Lithuania, there are several things you need to know to make your relocation as smooth as possible.

Firstly, it is important to note that Lithuania is serious about attracting talent like you. The migration policies are constantly being streamlined to make relocation as easy as possible. However, there is no such thing as bureaucracy-free migration. You will need to obtain a Residence Permit if you plan to stay in Lithuania for more than three months. The permit can be issued for a five-year period to persons of Lithuanian origin and persons having a right to restoration of Lithuanian citizenship.

VISA REQUIREMENTS

If you are a Nigerian citizen planning to relocate to Lithuania, you will need to obtain a Schengen visa to enter the country. The visa application process is handled by VFS Global in Abuja or Lagos, and the Embassy of Belgium processes the application.

To apply for a Schengen visa, you will need to submit the following documents:

• A completed and signed Schengen visa application form
• A valid travel document with at least 2 blank pages and a validity period of at least 3 months longer than the requested visa validity period
• A passport photograph meeting the photo specifications
• Proof of travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000
• Proof of accommodation in Lithuania
• Proof of sufficient financial means to cover your stay in Lithuania

The visa fee for a Schengen visa is ₦37, 275 for adults and ₦18, 635 for children between 0-12 years old. The processing time for a Schengen visa can take up to 15 calendar days, so it is recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.

It is important to note that obtaining a Schengen visa does not guarantee entry into Lithuania, as border officials have the right to refuse entry at their discretion. It is also important to comply with all visa regulations and requirements to avoid any issues or penalties during your stay in Lithuania.

FINDING ACCOMMODATION

When relocating to Lithuania from Nigeria, finding suitable accommodation is an important step. Here are some tips to help you find a place to live:

• Research: Before you arrive in Lithuania, do some research on the different neighborhoods and types of accommodation available. This will help you narrow down your search and focus on areas that meet your needs and budget.
• Real Estate Agents: Consider working with a real estate agent to help you find suitable accommodation. They can help you navigate the rental market and find properties that meet your requirements.
• Online Listings: There are several online platforms where you can search for available properties in Lithuania. Some popular ones include Aruodas.lt, Domoplius.lt, and City24.lt. These websites allow you to filter your search by location, price, and type of property.
• Short-term Accommodation: If you need temporary accommodation while you search for a more permanent place to live, consider staying in a hotel or Airbnb. This can give you time to explore different neighborhoods and get a feel for the city before committing to a long-term lease.
• Budget: Keep in mind that the cost of living in Lithuania may be higher than what you are used to in Nigeria. Make sure you have a budget in mind and factor in the cost of utilities, internet, and other expenses when looking for accommodation.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

If you are planning to relocate to Lithuania from Nigeria, it is important to consider the employment opportunities available in the country. Lithuania has a growing economy and offers a range of job opportunities for both locals and expats.

One of the most promising sectors in Lithuania is the IT industry. The country has a thriving startup ecosystem and is home to many international IT companies. If you have skills in programming, software development, or other IT-related fields, you may find many job opportunities in Lithuania.

Another growing sector in Lithuania is the service industry. With a growing tourism industry, there is a high demand for professionals in the hospitality and service sectors. Additionally, Lithuania has a strong manufacturing industry, which provides job opportunities in various fields such as engineering, logistics, and production.

When looking for a job in Lithuania, it is important to have a good understanding of the local job market and the skills that are in demand. It is also advisable to learn some basic Lithuanian, as many job postings require knowledge of the language.

There are various job search websites and recruitment agencies that can help you find employment opportunities in Lithuania. Some popular job search websites include cv.lt, cvonline.lt, and cvbankas.lt. Additionally, you can also explore job opportunities through social media platforms such as LinkedIn.

COST OF LIVING

When relocating to Lithuania from Nigeria, it is important to consider the cost of living in your new country. Lithuania is generally considered to be an affordable country, but there are still some differences in prices that you should be aware of. Here are some examples of the cost of living in Lithuania compared to Nigeria:

• Consumer prices in Lithuania are 66.3% higher than in Nigeria (without rent)
• Consumer prices including rent in Lithuania are 32.9% higher than in Nigeria
• Rent prices in Lithuania are 18.9% lower than in Nigeria

While some things may be more expensive in Lithuania, others may be cheaper. For example, food and transportation costs are generally lower in Lithuania than in Nigeria. Here are some examples of the cost of living for specific items in Lithuania:

• A McMeal at McDonald’s or equivalent combo meal costs around €6.20 (₦3,082.78)
• A domestic beer (1 pint draught) costs around €4.00 (₦1,988.89)
• An imported beer (12 oz small bottle) costs around €4.00 (₦1,988.89)
• A cappuccino (regular) costs around €2.79 (₦1,385.62)

It is important to keep in mind that these prices may vary depending on where you live in Lithuania and where you shop or eat. However, overall, the cost of living in Lithuania is generally considered to be affordable compared to other European countries.

When planning your budget for living in Lithuania, it is important to consider not only the cost of living but also other expenses such as healthcare, education, and taxes. You may also want to consider the exchange rate between the Nigerian naira and the euro, as this can affect your purchasing power in Lithuania.

HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

When relocating to Lithuania, it is important to consider the healthcare system in the country. The official language of medical institutions in Lithuania is Lithuanian, but depending on the doctor’s qualification, consultations can also be provided in English, Russian, and Polish. Younger physicians or doctors in both public and private health care institutions are more likely to be able to speak English.

Expats in Lithuania can opt for an international health insurance plan. Global health insurance ensures proper coverage of your medical expenses at the time of any medical emergency. There are a lot of global insurance companies that provide an extensive range of plans. Some of the best companies include Allianz Care and Cigna Global.

It is important to note that emergency medical services in Lithuania are free of charge for everyone, including foreigners. However, non-emergency medical services may require payment. The cost of healthcare in Lithuania is generally lower than in many other countries in Europe.

The quality of healthcare in Lithuania is generally good, with well-trained medical personnel and modern equipment. There are both public and private healthcare facilities in the country, with the public healthcare system being funded by the government. The private healthcare system is funded by individuals and private insurance companies.

EDUCATION SYSTEM

If you are considering relocating to Lithuania for educational purposes, it is important to understand the country’s education system. Lithuania offers a high-quality education system that is recognized globally. Here are some key things you need to know about the education system in Lithuania:

• Education is compulsory from ages 6 to 16, and it is free in public schools.
• There are three types of schools in Lithuania: primary, secondary, and vocational schools.
• Primary schools provide education for children aged 6 to 10, while secondary schools offer education for children aged 11 to 18.
• Vocational schools offer practical training for students who want to learn a trade or skill.
• Higher education in Lithuania is offered at universities, colleges, and other higher education institutions.
• There are two types of higher education programs in Lithuania: university and non-university programs.
• University programs are research-oriented and offer academic degrees, while non-university programs are more practical and offer professional degrees.
• The official language of instruction in Lithuania is Lithuanian, but many universities offer programs in English.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What are the visa requirements for Nigerians relocating to Lithuania?

Nigerian citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Lithuania. The Lithuania tourist visa is required for Nigerian citizens, and the stay is usually short with a period of 90 days. You will need to provide a valid passport, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds to cover your stay in Lithuania.

• What is the rejection rate for Lithuania visas in Nigeria?

The rejection rate for Lithuania visas in Nigeria is not publicly available. However, it is recommended that you ensure you meet all the requirements and provide all necessary documents to increase your chances of approval.

• Is there a Lithuanian embassy in Lagos, Nigeria?

No, there is no Lithuanian embassy in Lagos, Nigeria. The closest Lithuanian embassy is in Abuja, Nigeria.

• How do I apply for a Lithuanian student visa in Nigeria?

To apply for a Lithuanian student visa in Nigeria, you will need to contact the Lithuanian embassy in Abuja for application requirements and procedures. Generally, you will need to provide proof of acceptance into a Lithuanian educational institution, proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, and a valid passport.

• What is the process for obtaining a Lithuanian work visa from Nigeria?

To obtain a Lithuanian work visa from Nigeria, you will need to have a job offer from a Lithuanian employer. The employer will need to provide a work permit, and you will need to provide a valid passport, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds to cover your stay. You will also need to contact the Lithuanian embassy in Abuja for application requirements and procedures.

• What is the estimated cost of relocating from Nigeria to Lithuania?

The estimated cost of relocating from Nigeria to Lithuania varies depending on several factors, such as the mode of transportation, the cost of accommodation, and the cost of living. From our research, you would need about ₦6 to ₦10 million to relocate. It is recommended that you research and budget accordingly to ensure a smooth relocation process.