Lithuania’s parliament has recently passed the previously supported amendments that will require foreigners and companies employing them to serve clients in Lithuania starting January 2026.
However, the legislation includes exemptions for foreigners whose regular occupations do not necessitate proficiency in the language. This means that individuals selling goods or forest produce at fairs and other venues will not be required to learn Lithuanian, Schengen.News reports.
According to LRT news, the decision aims to enhance communication and customer service in the local language while balancing the needs of foreign workers and businesses.
It is believed that citizens of the Republic of Lithuania should have the right to be served in the national language.
Foreigners in Lithuania Must Use Lithuanian for Business Transactions in 2026
The Lithuanian parliament has highlighted significant language challenges facing the country’s diverse population following the release of the 2021 census results by the State Data Agency. The data revealed that approximately 60 per cent of the Lithuanian population speaks Russian, leaving around 40 per cent of residents to navigate services in a language they do not understand.
In light of these findings, the Seimas recently adopted amendments requiring foreigners and their employers to conduct business in Lithuania by 2026.
The European Migration Network (EMN) reports about 220,000 foreigners living in Lithuania. In 2023 alone, the country welcomed approximately 66,920 new immigrants, while the emigration rate stood at 21,986. The data shows that Lithuanians are most likely to migrate to these countries as follows:
- Ukraine (8,122)
- Belarus (1,817)
- Norway (1,368)
- Germany (1,343)
Among the newcomers to Lithuania, Belarusians represent the largest group, with 15,675 arrivals in 2023, and Ukrainians (10,539) and Kyrgyz (3,227).
Lithuania Implemented Stricter Work Rules for Foreigners
Lithuania grapples with labour shortages in 59 occupations, as noted in the latest EURES report, with sectors such as cleaning, food service, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and construction are particularly affected. However, despite ongoing shortages, the Lithuanian government has tightened employment rules for foreign workers.
Currently, only individuals with a residence permit will be allowed to work in the country. Certain workers, including teachers, researchers, and citizens from economically developed countries, will be exempt from this new policy, allowing them easier access to the Lithuanian job market.