Just a few years ago, Lithuania was an almost unknown destination for Indian students. But things have changed in recent years. More and more youths from Mumbai, Delhi, or Hyderabad go to this Baltic country to pursue study in Europe for international students. The reasons are clear: affordable education, European diploma, English-language programs, and after graduation, the possibility to stay and work.
Moreover, the country has a very stable visa procedure and offers students the option of official work during their study period. Indian students declare that the living cost is rather low in Lithuania: rent and food are cheaper than in the big European countries, a factor that weighs greatly on those intending to pursue studies for several years.
Vilnius University – the Oldest University with an International Reputation
Vilnius University is one of the prestigious universities of the country and indeed Eastern Europe. Founded in 1579, it carries the fragrance of history on its wings mingled with modern methods of instruction. Here one can find programs in medicine, economics, computer science, and international relations. The university highly supports international students: there is a whole department for international programs that assist with adaptation and paperwork. Indian students often select VU because of high teaching standards and chances to procure internships in other EU countries.
Kaunas University of Technology – the Choice for Technical Specialists
When it comes to technical education, Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) is a classic textbook example of leadership in engineering, cybersecurity, and digital technologies. Indian students have been majorly lured by the new English-language Master’s programs that open access to innovative projects and labs. The university is teeming with student life, including an Indian Students Association which assists new arrivals with integration into the educational process and familiarizing themselves with Lithuanian culture.
Lithuania Student Visa Requirements and Documents
For admission, an Indian student will need:
- a letter of admission from a Lithuanian university;
- proof of financial solvency (~5000 EUR per year);
- health insurance;
- a passport valid for at least 6 months after the start of studies.
- application form and payment of a visa fee (~60 EUR).
A type D (national) Lithuanian student visa is issued by the Lithuanian Embassy in India. More information about the Lithuania student visa for Indian is available on the official website.
Life and Prospects After Training
Indian students in Lithuania enjoy a comfortable and stable life. The student cities of Vilnius and Kaunas offer affordable housing, good transport links and a safe environment. Universities have international clubs and student societies where newcomers can make friends, learn the language and adapt to the local culture. Many Indians say they have managed to preserve their identity while easily integrating into European society. National holidays like Diwali are often celebrated on campus with the support of universities.
After completing their studies, graduates have a real opportunity to stay in the country. Lithuania is one of the few EU countries where graduates automatically get the right to stay for another 12 months to find a job. This is especially true for students in IT, engineering and business: in these industries, the Lithuanian labour market is open to foreign specialists. Some Indian graduates of KTU have already found jobs in international companies operating in Vilnius, such as Barclays or Cognizant, and have also opened their own startups in the Vilnius Tech Park. It is also important that a Lithuanian diploma is recognized throughout Europe.
This opens the door to study opportunities in Europe for international students in a Master’s program in other EU countries or to participation in international grant programs. Moreover, successful experience of living and studying in Lithuania often helps when applying for a residence permit or work visa in countries such as Germany, the Netherlands or Sweden. Lithuania is becoming a kind of launching pad for building a life and career in Europe – especially for motivated and flexible students from India.
