Shifting houses always comes up with fresh challenges. Finding a shelter is one of the earliest steps faced by foreigners here. Many Indian expatriates intending to settle for life in Lithuania may find renting an apartment easier than it seems at first glance. In this article, we shall explore how to rent an apartment, what to look out for, and what pitfalls you might have to dodge along the way.
Renting an Apartment in Lithuania as an Indian: What You Need to Know
Two popular types of rent in Lithuania are long-term rental (which shall extend for at least six months) and short-term. This is for students, seasonal workers or tourists. Most Indian expats usually go for long-term rentals — a comfortable, furnished apartment with basic facilities and close to work or university.
The three biggest cities where foreigners generally concentrate are Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipeda. As expected, they have many offers, but this comes with a price since rents there are much higher than in the smaller cities.
Where to Look for Housing?
The Internet is the main source of finding an apartment. Popular sites for renting:
- Aruodas.lt is the largest real estate portal in Lithuania.
- Domoplius.lt is an alternative platform with detailed filters.
- Facebook groups — for example, “Indians in Lithuania” or “Vilnius Rent Apartments”.
If you do not speak Lithuanian, you should look for ads in English or contact agents who work with foreigners.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent?
Rental cost of living in Lithuania differ according to the city, neighborhood, type of housing, and conditions:
- In Vilnius: 400-600 euros a month for one bedroom.
- In Kaunas: a one-bedroom flat costs 350-500 euros.
- Room in shared accommodation: 200-300 euros.
Utilities may or may not be included in the rent, so it pays to inquire ahead of time about what expenses you will need to cover each month.
Lease Agreement: What to Look For
This is crucial when it comes to the formation of a formal lease agreement for this reason; it guarantees your rights as a tenant and provides you with an obligatory means of obtaining temporary residence registration (important for foreigners).
The agreement should specify any of the following:
- monthly rent;
- the amount of the deposit;
- duration of the lease;
- terms of termination;
- payment of utilities.
Always, always request one in English or have it translated.
Deposit and Payment
Picture this scenario where the owner could ask for deposit fees equivalent to one or two months’ rent. It’s a kind of collateral in case that one damages the property or causes a loss by not paying rent. It’s prudent to get a receipt or transfer confirmation. Usually, rent is paid on a month-to-month basis, usually but not exclusively deposited into an account with the possibility of being paid in cash when there is no contract. However, this may be considered very risky.
Tips for Indian Expats
Here are some observations by many Indians living in Lithuania as an expat who have gone through this journey:
- Ask your countrymen — other Indians can recommend trusted landlords.
- Select neighborhoods with accessible infrastructure — near shops, public transport, hospitals.
- Avoid suspicious ads — an unbelievably low price or a landlord wanting money upfront without seeing the apartment-is likely a scam.
- Check the apartment before moving in — take photos of what the apartment looks like before moving to Lithuania from India to avoid any disputes when leaving.
Real Stories of Adaptation
In the words of many Indians residing in Lithuania, over a period of time, everything becomes understandable and familiar. The initial weeks can be tough—language barrier, unawareness of legal issues, and sometimes even culture shock. Renting an apartment is the first step towards an independent life in a new country. And, with each passing day, rented accommodation becomes home.
What’s Next?
After moving, you should:
- register your address with the local migration service;
- establish everyday life: connect to the internet, find out public transportation schedules, find the nearest shops;
- get used to the city’s rhythm and cultural peculiarities.
Housing as Part of a New History
Thus, even renting a flat in Lithuania is not mere compliance with an external formality for Indian expatriates but quite an integral part of venturing into a new phase of life, establishing themselves in European society. Important as it is in terms of dealing with the new environment, housing selection can play an important role in adaptation, mood and confidence regarding the new environment. Although first steps are always slightly jerky, over time this foreign country ceases to be a ‘different’ country and becomes a second home.
