Over the past few years, Lithuania has become an interesting destination not only for students and digital nomads from Europe, but also for expats from India. There are several reasons: affordable prices, a relaxed pace of life, access to European education and work. However, choosing a city is a key point. Where to live? Where to look for work? Where is it easier to adapt?
This Lithuanian expat guide is not a dry summary. It contains opinions, experiences and observations of those who have already made this choice.
Vilnius — the Heart and Brain of the Country
Vilnius is the capital and largest city of Lithuania. Sharma Deepak, a 29-year-old IT specialist from Mumbai, lives and works here. He came on a contract to one of the fintech companies in 2021 and has never regretted it since.
“I thought it would be cold — both literally and in terms of people. But everything is different. The city center is lively, there are a lot of startups. Yes, it’s —15 in winter, but in summer there is greenery, parks, old streets, festivals. Lots of English, in shops, in transport — no problem.”
The cost of living in Lithuania, of course, depends on the city, but Vilnius is not the cheapest. Rent of a one-room apartment in the center starts from 600 euros. But there are more opportunities: work, universities, medical centers, entertainment, coffee shops. And the Indian cafe Radharanė, by the way, is quite authentic. For those considering living in Lithuania as an Indian, Vilnius is the first and logical place to start. Especially if the profession is related to IT, finance or education.
Kaunas — A City of Contrasts
Kaunas is the second largest city. It is industrial and cozy at the same time. The architecture is a mixture of modernism and socialist heritage. The streets are quieter, but everything you need is there.
The Mittal couple, engineers from Delhi, moved here in 2022 on a student visa: the wife studies at Kaunas University of Technology, the husband works remotely.
“We like the pace. It seems a little calmer here. And yes, renting housing is really cheaper. We rent a two-room apartment for 500 euros. And with a balcony!”
Kaunas is convenient for families with children — there are many playgrounds, good schools, and everything is within walking distance. There is a sense of security, which is lacking in megacities.
In terms of work, there are not as many vacancies as in Vilnius, but remote workers and students feel confident. Many Lithuanians here speak excellent English, and the Indian diaspora is gradually growing.
Bonus: How Indians Are Adapting to Lithuania
Living in Lithuania as a foreigner is both a challenge and an opportunity. Pros:
- high level of personal safety;
- free or affordable education;
- ecologically clean environment;
- pleasant climate for those tired of the heat.
Cons? The culture is very different, the food is unusual, and the winter is real, with snow. But every year more and more Indians appear in Lithuania – from students to specialists.
On the Expat.com forum, users share life hacks: where to look for spices (there are a couple of Indian shops in Vilnius), where it is easier to rent housing, how to extend a residence permit.
Not a Conclusion, but an Invitation
Choosing a city is not just a mark on a map. It is the smell of morning coffee in a local coffee shop. It is the route home along evening streets. It is the smile of a neighbor in the elevator, even if you barely speak the same language.
Lithuania does not catch the eye at first glance. It is not loud, does not boast. But it knows how to be honest, calm and in its own way warm — even in winter. Vilnius will give you movement, Kaunas — rhythm, Klaipeda — the air of salt and space.
For Indian expats, this is not just a point on the globe. It is an opportunity to start a chapter with less stress, more nature and a little more of yourself. So maybe it is not about which city to choose. But about which city you want to stay in at dawn on a Saturday morning. Lithuania is waiting. All that remains is to feel where your address is.
