What are my Schengen travel insurance options for Lithuania?

The capital city of Lithuania Vilnius is both a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the greenest cities in Europe. Vilnius is also one of the few capitals in the world that allows hot air balloons to fly over it! FBut there are countless other reasons why both Vilnius and the rest of Lithuania are quickly rising to the top of the list of top European destinations.

Meanwhile, if you’re also planning a trip to this central European gem any time soon, having the proper travel insurance is probably a good call — even if you’re not planning on leaving the ground much while there. And if you need a Schengen visa, it’s actually required. So to help make sure your journey is smooth from start to finish, AXA has all you need to know about how to choose the right travel insurance for Lithuania below.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for Lithuania?
• What are the travel insurance requirements to be granted a Schengen visa for Lithuania?
• I don’t need a Schengen Visa. Do I still need travel insurance for Lithuania?
• Why choose AXA Schengen travel insurance for Lithuania?
• What options does AXA Schengen travel insurance for Lithuania offer?
• What should I do if I am injured or ill while in Lithuania?

Is travel insurance mandatory for Lithuania?

Maybe. That is, Lithuania's requirements for travel insurance depend on your citizenship, your current paperwork, and where you’re coming from. That’s because the Republic is one of three Baltic states that help make up what’s known as the Schengen Zone. And like all its Schengen neighbors, it thus requires most of its visitors to obtain a Schengen visa for stays up to 90 days.

One of the requirements for securing a Schengen Visa, meanwhile, is having the proper travel insurance. We'll delve deeper into what “proper” means here shortly. But first, here’s a quick breakdown of who does and doesn’t need a Schengen visa for Lithuania.

Who needs a Schengen visa for Lithuania (for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period)?

You will need a Schengen visa — and, therefore, travel insurance — to go to Lithuania if you’re a national of China, India, Russia, and nearly a hundred more countries* (which are, for the most part, in Africa and the Middle East). The reason is that these countries have not as of yet signed a visa waiver agreement with the Schengen zone and the European Union.

*Fortunately, the executive branch for the EU - i.e., the European Commission - provides full lists of countries exempt and countries not exempt from the Schengen visa (as well as a ton of other helpful official European visa info).

Who does not need a Schengen visa for Lithuania (for stays of up to 90 days)?

Meanwhile, you can go to Lithuania Schengen visa-free if you are:

• A citizen of one (or more) of the Schengen countries.
• A holder of a valid residence permit issued by a Schengen Area member country.
• A citizen of one (or more) of the non-Schengen European Union member countries.
• A citizen of Australia, Brazil, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, the U.K., the U.S., or any other of the 60+ non-EU countries and territories that have signed visa exemption agreements with the EU.

IMPORTANT: Keep in mind that regardless of whether you need a visa or not, you can not stay in Lithuania for more than three months without more paperwork of some sort.

PRO-TIP: AXA can gladly help you understand the Schengen visa 90/180-day rule in no time too!

In the meantime, AXA can also help you quickly answer one of the most common European travel questions in the world (including for Lithuania):

How do I apply for a visa for Lithuania?

If you do need a visa, along with helping secure it with the right insurance (see below), AXA can also help you first figure out:

What are the travel insurance requirements to be granted a Schengen visa for Lithuania?

Now, as you might already know, one of the primary requirements for being granted a Schengen visa is that you have a proper travel insurance plan. And that’s whether your visa is for Lithuania or any of its dozens of Schengen neighbors.

Moreover, not only will you need insurance already in place when applying, but your Schengen visa travel insurance plan must also adhere to a certain set of criteria (as set forth by the European Commission). These stipulate that your plan:

• is purchased from an insurance company validated by the consular authorities of all Schengen countries (not just Lithuania).
• has a minimum coverage of €30,000 in medical expenses (such as hospitalization, emergency treatment, and repatriation – including in case of death);.
• covers you in both Lithuania and all the Schengen member countries.
• is valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen Area.

PRO-TIPS: AXA’s plans, of course, meet all the EU criteria above (and then some)!
But for the slightly more geeky among us, we also have all the specific details of the travel insurance requirements for a Schengen visa too!

I don’t need a Schengen Visa. Do I still need travel insurance for Lithuania?

Travel insurance is not mandatory for Lithuania if you don’t need a Schengen Visa. However, a trip abroad is generally full of surprises. And no matter your destination, your health and safety - and those of your loved ones - should always be your first priority.

Snorkeling in the Baltic sea or one of Lithuania’s thousands of lakes? Hiking through its endless forests? Marveling at Europe’s oldest largest baroque Old Town (be it by foot, bike, or hot air balloon)? Or just simply sipping on some fine Lithuanian beer and/or cold beetroot soup? Whatever your adventure, big or small, accidents happen.

Meanwhile, medical costs abroad can be surprisingly high. Especially when it comes to medication and prescription drugs. And while Lithuania does offer free basic healthcare to EU citizens (with a valid EHIC card, that is), visitors from outside the EU are a different story.

Moreover, navigating Lithuania’s healthcare system can be tedious, confusing, and almost always time-consuming — considering the foreign red tape, language barrier, and so on. Not to mention the nightmare of potentially getting you out of Lithuania - as medical repatriation costs can sometimes run upwards of a hundred thousand euros!

In short, having the proper travel insurance for Lithuania can ultimately save you a lot of time, stress, and money. And it will also give you the necessary support when dealing with the unexpected, thus ensuring that you and your family are well taken care of - sea, land, or air, and 24/7 - in case something does go wrong.

Why choose AXA Schengen travel insurance for Lithuania?

And whether you’re opting for an insurance plan to just get a visa, for peace of mind and 24/7 support during your travels, or both — AXA is definitely the way to go. And here are just a few reasons why.

AXA’s plans:

• Meet all criteria required by the EU for being granted a Schengen visa.


• Offer a fast and easy online subscription.


• Provide a certified, world-renowned travel insurance certificate instantly.


• Are accepted by all Schengen embassies, consulates, and visa application centers worldwide.


• Offer a full refund in case your Schengen visa application is denied.


• Have no age limit, zero deductibles, and require no medical exams.


• Offer coverage of medical and repatriation costs of up to €2 Million.


• Include civil liability and personal liability insurance.


• Include death and disability coverage.


• Offer baggage insurance (either included or optional, depending on the plan - see below).


• Are customizable, offering multiple upgrade options.


• Are available for one day, up to six months, or even as an annual subscription.


• Are valid for the Schengen area + the European Union + the United Kingdom (depending on the plan).


• Provide 24/7 emergency assistance.


• Offer free remote medical consultation via our unique Doctor, Please! feature (in English, French, and a number of other languages).


• Can be purchased on behalf of someone else.

And, of course, with AXA, you have the added peace of mind of knowing you’re supported by a top-quality, world-renowned Schengen travel insurance brand - from your visa application all the way to Lithuania and beyond!

What options does AXA Schengen travel insurance for Lithuania offer?

In terms of which coverage option is best for you and your family, take a look at our general overview below.

PRO-TIP: But be sure to click around and learn more about each one too!

• AXA SCHENGEN BASIC: our standard coverage, meeting all Schengen visa requirements and covering you in all Schengen countries + 4 European microstates (San Marino, Andorra, Monaco, and Vatican City).


• AXA SCHENGEN ESSENTIAL: meets all Schengen visa requirements while offering affordable but complete, reliable coverage in all Schengen countries + all EU countries + the European microstates above + the UK.


• AXA SCHENGEN PREMIUM: premium, all-inclusive, worry-free coverage meeting all necessary Schengen visa requirements (and also covering you in all Schengen countries + all EU countries + the European microstates + the UK).


• AXA SCHENGEN ANNUAL: our year-long plan, designed specifically for holders of multiple-entry visas and/or frequent travelers to Europe. It also meets all Schengen visa requirements and is valid across all Schengen countries + all EU countries + the microstates + the UK- but offers a single contract for a full year of European travel!

To help you decide which of the above options works best for your Lithuanian adventure

What should I do if I am injured or ill while in Lithuania?

First off, try to remain calm, and remember that AXA is always there for you if something goes wrong. And that’s whether you’re exploring the Baltic shore, Lithuania’s 3.000+ lakes, lush vast greenery and abundant wildlife, the beautiful baroque architecture of Vilnius’ “old town,” or anything in between.

In case of a medical emergency, simply contact one of our call centers. The specific number will be provided with your insurance policy (and you can also find it via the link below).

Via said number, medical assistance professionals will answer your questions and advise you on how to get help — day and night, 24/7, wherever in Lithuania you may be. They’ll also help you find a medical center closest to you and/or best suited to your situation.

What to provide when contacting AXA's call center

When contacting the AXA 24/7 call center, you’ll be asked to provide the following:

• The number of your policy (which begins with “SCH”);
• The address and telephone number at which you can be reached (as well as the details of any people that can be contacted locally);
• Your dossier number (communicated at the time of the first call).

PRO-TIP: Always keep all bills/invoices related to medical costs and enclose them with your file. Keep your phone charged too. And stay calm — we got your back!

List of Emergency Numbers in Lithuania

And here’s a list of emergency numbers to keep on hand when in the “Land of Amber” (aka Lithuania) along with AXA’s:

• 112 is the single number for general emergencies — i.e., police, ambulance, and fire services;

But here are a few more, just in case:

• Police: 102 (alternative to 112 for police emergencies);


• Ambulance: 103 (alternative to 112 for medical emergencies);


• Fire Department: 101 (alternative to 112 for fire emergencies);


• Emergency Medical Service: 03 (alternative to 112 for medical emergencies)


• Police (non-emergency): +370 21 000 00 (country code + city code + phone number)

So, again, if you’re not calling AXA, 112 is the easiest number to remember. It will connect you to the appropriate Lithuanian emergency service you need. But maybe save the others in your phone before you travel just in case too.

What else should I know when prepping for my trip to Lithuania?

Now you should be more or less ready to explore Lithuania’s rich history, captivating natural beauty, warm hospitality, and optional hot air balloon rides. But before you embark on your adventure, here are some additional details to consider alongside AXA travel insurance:

Safety in Lithuania

Lithuania boasts a very low crime rate, making it a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any destination, it's always wise to be vigilant in crowded areas like tourist spots and on public transportation. So keep an eye on your belongings, avoid carrying large sums of cash, and keep those emergency numbers on hand (and you’re phone charged).

Public Transportation in Lithuania

Lithuania offers a well-developed public transportation system near and far.The main mode of public transportation in most Lithuanian cities is the bus network. Vilnius, the cap, for example, offers extensive bus routes operated by Vilniaus viešasis transportas. Tickets can be purchased from vending machines at bus stops or directly on board (exact change recommended).

The charming Eastern European novelty that is trolleybuses is also present in some larger cities like Vilnius and Kaunas (and they operate similarly to buses).

Trains are a good option, too. Lithuanian Railways (aka Lietuvos Geležinkeliai) operates a national train network connecting most major cities — with online ticket booking available.

And ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Uber operate in most Lithuanian cities too.

Driving in Lithuania

If you plan on exploring Lithuania by car, a valid driver's license* from your home country is sufficient for driving in Lithuania for up to three months. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not mandatory but may be helpful for additional identification purposes.

Road Rules: Lithuania follows standard European road rules. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, and the legal alcohol limit is 0.2 BAC. Be aware of speed limits, which vary depending on the road type.

Parking: Pay close attention to parking signs in city centers. Many areas require purchasing a parking ticket or using a parking disc (galima stovėti iki...). Free parking zones are often marked with a blue sign with a white "P."

*PRO TIP*: For more on driving legally in Lithuania and its surroundings, check out our piece Which driving licenses are accepted in Europe?

Weather in Lithuania

Lithuania experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are generally pleasant with average highs around 22°C (72°F). Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures for exploring outdoors. Winters, however, can be cold and snowy in this Baltic gem — with average lows around -5°C (23°F). So packing layers is key throughout the year. And waterproof gear is highly recommended too — especially if you’re planning a few adventures.

Opening Hours in Lithuania

Most shops in Lithuania operate from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on weekdays and shorter hours on Saturdays (typically until 4:00 pm). Many shops are closed on Sundays, especially in smaller towns. However, larger shopping centers in major cities and tourist areas may have extended hours and/or remain open on Sundays.

Restaurants in Lithuania

Lithuanian restaurants typically open for lunch around 11:00 am to 2:00 pm and for dinner from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially during weekends and peak tourist season (June-August). Some restaurants may close between lunch and dinner service, so checking opening hours in advance is best.

Lithuanian cuisine itself, meanwhile, offers a delicious blend of flavors influenced by its Central and Eastern European neighbors.

PRO FOOD TIPS:

And, finally, here are some must-try dishes (as recommended by the locals):

• Cepelinai: potato dumplings with various savory fillings like meat, cheese, and/or mushrooms.


• Šaltibarščiai: a chilled beetroot soup that’s a refreshing summer staple.


• Kibinai: savory pastries filled with meat, cabbage, and/or curd cheese (perfect with beer).

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• How to choose the best Schengen travel insurance

FAQ

Can I purchase an AXA Schengen travel insurance plan on behalf of someone else?

Definitely! With AXA, you can easily take out a plan for a loved one, a friend, and/or any visiting guests. You’ll only be asked to provide the beneficiary's personal info (i.e., their DOB, address, passport number, and itinerary).

Can I travel to other European countries with a Lithuanian Schengen visa?

Yes, so long as they are Schengen countries (since not all of Europe’s roughly 50 countries are in the Schengen Zone).

FINAL PRO-TIP: And AXA can tell you all about the differences between Europe, the European Union, the EEA, and the Schengen Zone too!

Can I work or study in Lithuania with a tourist visa?

No. The tourist (or Type C) Schengen visa allows visitors to enter Lithuania (and the Schengen zone) for a short business trip, a holiday, or to visit family members. However, it cannot be converted into a work or study permit.