Banking & Finance
Lithuania's banking landscape has some surprises for newcomers. Here's what you need to know before you arrive.
Banking Overview in Lithuania
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Currency | euro (EUR) € |
| Bank Account for Foreigners | May be possible — confirm with the bank |
| Access Difficulty | Medium |
| Remote Opening | No |
| Wise Available | No |
| N26 Available | No |
Opening a Bank Account in Lithuania
Foreign nationals may be able to open a bank account in Lithuania, but we have not independently verified this — confirm the current rules directly with the bank, in writing, before you rely on it. The process difficulty is rated as medium, which means you should expect some bureaucracy and possibly language barriers.
Required Documents
- Valid passport or national ID
- Proof of address / residence registration
- Residence permit (if applicable)
- Tax identification number (if available)
- Initial deposit (amount varies by bank)
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Banks in Lithuania — remote & non-resident opening
Named banks operating in Lithuania, and what our automated research found about non-resident remote account opening (no branch visit required). This has not been verified by a human reviewer — use it as a starting point and confirm directly with the bank.
| Bank | Remote opening | Confidence | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Artea Bankas (formerly Šiaulių Bankas) | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | Medium | Allows third-country nationals to become customer online in ~15 min via app+ID; fee, 2-3 days. |
| Luminor Bank | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | Unrated | — |
| SEB bankas | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | Unrated | — |
| Swedbank | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | Unrated | — |
Last checked 2026-06-22 · Source: official bank websites, gathered via automated research that has not been reviewed by our founder — treat every row as a lead, not a verified fact, and confirm directly with the bank before you rely on it. Research confidence: High = clear supporting evidence found · Medium = partial or indirect evidence · Low = weak or conflicting evidence · Unrated = no confidence assessment recorded (unreviewed automated research).
Digital Banking Options
Wise (TransferWise)
Wise has limited availability in Lithuania. While you may be able to send money to Lithuania, full local account features may not be available. Check their website for the latest on Lithuania-specific services.
N26
We have no record of N26 operating in Lithuania — check N26's own country list, as their coverage changes. You may need to consider local digital bank alternatives or traditional banks.
International Transfers
When transferring money to or from Lithuania, consider these factors:
- Exchange rate: The currency is EUR. Always compare the offered rate with the mid-market rate.
- Transfer fees: Transfer fees vary — compare providers like Wise for the best rates.
- Transfer speed: Bank-to-bank (SWIFT) transfers take 2-5 business days. Digital services often complete within 1-2 days.
- Regular transfers: If sending money home regularly, set up a recurring transfer to lock in better rates.
Salary and Everyday Banking
The average salary in Lithuania is approximately €1,542 per month. Your employer will typically require a local bank account for salary deposits. Most banks offer:
- Debit card (Visa or Mastercard)
- Online banking portal and mobile app
- Direct debit setup for rent and utilities
- ATM withdrawals (check fee policies)
Tips for Expats
- Ask about expat-friendly packages: Some banks offer special accounts for foreign residents with English-language support and lower fees.
- Open your account early: Visit a bank branch within your first week. Having a local account speeds up everything from rent to mobile contracts.
- Compare fees before choosing: Monthly account fees, ATM charges, and international transfer costs vary wildly between banks. Ask before you open.
- Get a local phone number first: Most banks require a local mobile number for SMS verification. Set this up before visiting the branch.
- Carry cash for the first week: Card acceptance varies. Have enough local currency to cover taxis, meals, and small purchases until your account is active.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my bank account if I leave Lithuania?
Most banks in Lithuania allow you to keep your account open even after leaving, though some may require an address in Lithuania. It is advisable to switch to a basic or non-resident account to avoid unnecessary fees. Close standing orders and direct debits before leaving.
Are there any fees for maintaining a bank account in Lithuania?
Many banks in Lithuania charge monthly maintenance fees ranging from €2 to €15. Some offer free accounts if you maintain a minimum balance or receive a regular salary.
How do ATM withdrawals work in Lithuania?
ATMs are widely available in Lithuania. Your bank's ATM network is usually free; out-of-network ATMs may charge €1-5 per withdrawal. International cards may incur additional fees.
Can I open a bank account remotely before moving to Lithuania?
Remote account opening is generally not available in Lithuania. You will likely need to visit a branch in person with your documents.
How long does it take to open a bank account in Lithuania?
Opening a bank account in Lithuania typically takes 1-3 weeks depending on documentation readiness and the bank chosen. Digital banks may be faster.
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About the author
António Mira is the founder of whereTOemigrate. For over a decade he has worked at the intersection of Portuguese real estate and overseas business, helping international clients navigate the cross-border decisions that come with relocating. He sits on the board of CCIAP (Portuguese-Arab Chamber of Commerce), the Portuguese-Saudi Business Council, and the Portugal-Hong Kong Business Association — always with one focus: enabling overseas business and human mobility into and out of Portugal.
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