Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Lithuania Property Pack
Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Lithuania Property Pack
Buying property in Lithuania is surprisingly fast compared to many European countries.
You can complete a real estate transaction in Lithuania within 4-8 weeks from start to finish, with property registration taking just 3-5 business days once documents are notarized. Foreigners face minimal restrictions when purchasing residential properties, making Lithuania an attractive destination for international property investors.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Lithuania, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
The Lithuania property buying process typically takes 4-8 weeks for foreigners, with straightforward legal requirements and minimal restrictions on residential purchases.
Most costs are predictable, with notary fees at 0.37% of property value and lawyer fees ranging from €800-€2,000.
| Process Step | Timeline | Cost/Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Property Selection to Offer | 1-2 weeks | 10-15% deposit required |
| Due Diligence & Legal Review | 1-2 weeks | €800-€2,000 lawyer fees |
| Mortgage Approval (if needed) | 2-3 weeks | 20-30% down payment |
| Notarization | 1 day | 0.37% of property value + VAT |
| Property Registration | 3-5 business days | €50-€100 registration fee |
| Seller Move-out | Few days to 2 weeks | As per contract agreement |
| Bank Account Opening | 1 day (digital) to few weeks | Varies by bank |
How long does it typically take to buy a property in Lithuania?
The complete property buying process in Lithuania takes 4-8 weeks from initial offer to final registration.
This timeline includes property selection, due diligence, legal documentation, notarization, and property registration. The process is notably faster than many Western European countries where transactions can drag on for 3-4 months.
The timeline can be shorter if you're buying with cash and all documentation is prepared in advance. Properties in Vilnius and Kaunas typically process faster due to better-established legal infrastructure, while rural properties might take slightly longer due to additional verification requirements.
As of September 2025, Lithuania's digitized property registration system significantly speeds up the final steps of ownership transfer.
What are the key legal requirements for foreigners purchasing property in Lithuania?
Foreigners can freely purchase residential and commercial properties in Lithuania with minimal legal restrictions.
The primary requirements include obtaining a Lithuanian Tax Identification Number (TIN), providing a valid passport or EU ID, and ensuring all foreign documents are apostilled and translated into Lithuanian. You'll also need proof of funds through bank statements or loan approval documentation.
EU citizens face no additional restrictions beyond standard property purchase requirements. Non-EU citizens can also buy property freely, though some specific categories of buyers (particularly Russian citizens as of 2025) may face additional scrutiny or restrictions.
It's something we develop in our Lithuania property pack.
All legal documents must be properly translated and notarized, which adds €200-€600 to your transaction costs but ensures compliance with Lithuanian property law.
Are there any restrictions on non-residents buying property?
Non-residents face very limited restrictions when buying residential or commercial properties in Lithuania.
The main restrictions apply to agricultural and forestry land, which foreigners generally cannot purchase. Additionally, properties in sensitive areas including border zones, coastal areas, and dune protection zones require special permits and may face additional government approval processes.
Residential apartments, houses, and commercial properties in cities like Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipeda are freely available to foreign buyers. Non-residents don't need to establish residency before purchasing property, making Lithuania one of the most foreigner-friendly property markets in the Baltic region.
As of September 2025, geopolitical considerations have led to additional restrictions on buyers from certain countries, but these don't affect most international investors.
How long does the property registration process take in Lithuania?
Property registration in Lithuania takes 3-5 business days once all documents are properly notarized.
The State Register processes ownership transfers digitally, making Lithuania one of the fastest countries in Europe for property registration. This timeline assumes all documentation is complete and there are no legal complications with the property title.
The registration fee is typically €50-€100 for standard transactions. Properties with complex ownership structures or legal disputes may take longer to process, but these represent a small percentage of transactions.
You'll receive official confirmation of ownership transfer electronically, and physical documents can be collected within a few additional days if required for banking or legal purposes.
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Do I need a lawyer to help me with the purchase process, and how much do they charge?
While not legally required, hiring a lawyer is highly recommended for property purchases in Lithuania.
Lawyer fees typically range from €800-€2,000 for full legal services during a real estate transaction. The exact cost depends on property value, transaction complexity, and whether you need additional services like due diligence or contract negotiation.
A lawyer will handle due diligence, contract drafting, compliance verification, and ensure all legal procedures are followed correctly. They're particularly valuable for foreigners who may not be familiar with Lithuanian property law nuances.
Many lawyers offer fixed-fee packages for standard residential purchases, making costs predictable from the start. In Vilnius and Kaunas, you'll find lawyers who specialize in foreign buyer transactions and can communicate in English.
The investment in legal services typically pays for itself by avoiding costly mistakes or legal complications later.
What is the average time it takes to complete a real estate transaction in Lithuania from start to finish?
A complete real estate transaction in Lithuania averages 4-8 weeks from property selection to final ownership transfer.
| Transaction Phase | Duration | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Property Search & Selection | 1-2 weeks | Viewing properties, market research, initial negotiations |
| Offer & Preliminary Agreement | 3-7 days | Formal offer, deposit payment, preliminary contract signing |
| Due Diligence & Legal Review | 1-2 weeks | Property verification, legal checks, document preparation |
| Financing (if applicable) | 2-3 weeks | Mortgage application, bank approval, loan documentation |
| Final Contract & Notarization | 1 day | Final contract signing, notary services, payment transfer |
| Property Registration | 3-5 business days | Ownership transfer, state registration, title confirmation |
| Property Handover | Few days to 2 weeks | Keys transfer, utility transfers, final walkthrough |
Are there any specific documents required for foreigners to buy property in Lithuania?
Foreigners need several specific documents to purchase property in Lithuania, all properly authenticated and translated.
Required documents include: - Valid passport or EU ID card - Lithuanian Tax Identification Number (TIN) - Proof of funds through bank statements or loan approval letters - Apostilled and translated foreign documents - Notarized Power of Attorney if completing the transaction remotely - Visa or residence permit for extended stays (if applicable)All foreign documents must be apostilled in your home country and officially translated into Lithuanian by a certified translator. This process can take 1-2 weeks and costs €200-€600 depending on document volume.
It's something we develop in our Lithuania property pack.
The TIN can be obtained quickly through the Lithuanian tax authorities and is essential for all property transactions.
How quickly can I get a mortgage in Lithuania if I am a foreigner, and what are the requirements?
Foreign buyers can obtain mortgage approval in Lithuania within 2-3 weeks if all requirements are met.
Lithuanian banks typically require a 20-30% down payment from foreign buyers, proof of stable income, employment verification, and sometimes a Lithuanian residency permit. EU citizens generally face fewer restrictions than non-EU buyers.
Major banks like SEB, Swedbank, and Luminor offer mortgages to foreigners, though terms may be less favorable than for Lithuanian residents. Interest rates for foreigners typically range 1-2% higher than domestic rates.
The mortgage application process requires income documentation from your home country, credit history verification, and property appraisal. Banks may require income to be at least 3-4 times the monthly mortgage payment.
Processing times can extend to 4-6 weeks for complex applications or non-EU citizens who need additional documentation verification.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Lithuania versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.
What is the typical deposit amount required when buying property in Lithuania?
The standard deposit for property purchases in Lithuania is 10-15% of the purchase price.
This deposit is paid when signing the preliminary purchase agreement and demonstrates serious intent to complete the transaction. Some sellers may accept smaller reservation deposits of 1-3% to hold the property while financing is arranged.
The deposit is typically held in escrow by the lawyer or real estate agency until the final transaction is completed. If the buyer withdraws without valid reason, the deposit is usually forfeited to the seller.
For cash purchases, some buyers negotiate lower deposits, while sellers may require higher deposits for complex transactions or when dealing with foreign buyers who might face financing challenges.
How much are the notary and registration fees in Lithuania?
Notary fees in Lithuania are 0.37% of the property purchase price, with a minimum of €33 and maximum of €5,000, plus 21% VAT.
Property registration fees are typically €50-€100 for standard residential transactions. These fees are fixed and non-negotiable, making transaction costs predictable for buyers.
Additional costs include document translation (€200-€600), lawyer fees (€800-€2,000), and potential property appraisal fees if financing is involved. The total transaction costs typically represent 2-4% of the property purchase price.
It's something we develop in our Lithuania property pack.
VAT on notary services brings the total notary cost to approximately 0.45% of the property value, which is competitive compared to other European countries.
How long does it take to open a bank account in Lithuania for property purchase purposes?
Opening a bank account in Lithuania can take anywhere from 1 day for digital accounts to several weeks for traditional banking relationships.
Digital banking services like Paysera allow foreigners to open accounts within 1 business day with minimal documentation. Traditional banks like SEB, Swedbank, and Luminor typically require 1-2 weeks for account opening, with some requiring in-person visits.
For property purchase purposes, you'll need a bank account to transfer funds, pay deposits, and complete the final transaction. Most banks require proof of identity, address verification, and explanation of fund sources for large transactions.
EU citizens can often open accounts remotely, while non-EU citizens may need to visit Lithuania in person or provide additional documentation. The account opening process should be started early in your property buying timeline to avoid delays.
How fast can I expect the seller to vacate the property after the deal is done in Lithuania?
Property handover typically occurs within a few days to 2 weeks after the final sale contract is signed and registered.
The exact timeline is specified in the purchase contract and can be negotiated between buyer and seller. Most sellers vacate within 3-7 days of the final transaction, though some may request up to 2 weeks for moving arrangements.
Vacant properties can be handed over immediately after registration, while occupied properties require coordination with tenant notices or seller moving timelines. Rental properties with existing tenants may have longer handover periods depending on lease agreements.
The handover includes transfer of all keys, utility accounts, building access codes, and any relevant property documentation. A final walkthrough is typically conducted to ensure the property condition matches the sale agreement.
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Lithuania offers one of the most efficient property buying processes in Europe, with clear timelines and predictable costs making it attractive for international investors.
The combination of fast registration, minimal restrictions on foreign buyers, and competitive transaction costs creates favorable conditions for property investment in major Lithuanian cities.
Sources
- Lithuania Real Estate for Foreigners - INVESTROPA
- Real Estate Guide Lithuania - Multilaw
- Acquisition of Real Estate in Lithuania by Foreign Nationals - TET Legal
- Buy a Property in Lithuania - Lawyers Lithuania
- Buying Property in Lithuania for Foreigners - Novyny Live
- Lithuania Property Pack - INVESTROPA
- Bank Account for Foreigners - Paysera
- Opening a Bank Account in Lithuania - Wise