
Lithuania
EuropeLH December 18, 2025




Background
Lithuanian lands were united under MINDAUGAS in 1236; over the next century, Lithuania extended its territory through alliances and conquest to include most of present-day Belarus and Ukraine. By the end of the 14th century, Lithuania was the largest state in Europe. An alliance with Poland in 1386 led the two countries into a union through a common ruler. In 1569, Lithuania and Poland formally united into a single dual state, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. This entity survived until 1795 when surrounding countries partitioned its remnants. Lithuania regained its independence after World War I, but the USSR annexed it in 1940 -- an action never recognized by the US and many other countries. In 1990, Lithuania became the first of the Soviet republics to declare its independence, but Moscow did not recognize this proclamation until 1991. The last Russian troops withdrew in 1993. Lithuania subsequently restructured its economy for integration into West European institutions; it joined both NATO and the EU in 2004. In 2015, Lithuania joined the euro zone, and it joined the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development in 2018.
Geographic coordinates
56 00 N, 24 00 E
Natural hazards
occasional floods, droughts
Area - comparative
slightly larger than West Virginia
Environmental issues
water pollution; air pollution; deforestation; groundwater pollution from chemicals and waste; soil degradation and erosion
International environmental agreements
Party to: Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Heavy Metals, Air Pollution-Multi-effect Protocol, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Persistent Organic Pollutants, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands, Whaling
Signed, but not ratified: None of the selected agreements
Signed, but not ratified: None of the selected agreements
Climate
transitional, between maritime and continental; wet, moderate winters and summers
Coastline
90 km
Land boundaries
Total: 1,545 km
Border countries (4): Belarus 640 km; Latvia 544 km; Poland 100 km; Russia (Kaliningrad) 261 km
Border countries (4): Belarus 640 km; Latvia 544 km; Poland 100 km; Russia (Kaliningrad) 261 km
Land use
Agricultural land: 45.9% (2023 est.)
Arable land: 36.8% (2023 est.)
Permanent crops: 0.5% (2023 est.)
Permanent pasture: 8.6% (2023 est.)
Forest: 35.3% (2023 est.)
Other: 18.8% (2023 est.)
Arable land: 36.8% (2023 est.)
Permanent crops: 0.5% (2023 est.)
Permanent pasture: 8.6% (2023 est.)
Forest: 35.3% (2023 est.)
Other: 18.8% (2023 est.)
Maritime claims
Territorial sea: 12 nm
Natural resources
peat, arable land, amber
Geography - note
fertile central plains are separated by hilly uplands that are ancient glacial deposits
Terrain
lowland, many scattered small lakes, fertile soil
Location
Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Latvia and Russia, west of Belarus
Map references
Europe
Irrigated land
61 sq km (2020)
Total renewable water resources
24.5 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Population distribution
fairly even population distribution throughout the country, but somewhat greater concentrations in the southern cities of Vilnius and Kaunas, as well as the western port of Klaipeda
Elevation
Highest point: Aukstojas 294 m
Lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m
Mean elevation: 110 m
Lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m
Mean elevation: 110 m
Major lakes (area sq km)
Salt water lake(s): Curonian Lagoon (shared with Russia) - 1,620 sq km
Area
Total : 65,300 sq km
Land: 62,680 sq km
Water: 2,620 sq km
Land: 62,680 sq km
Water: 2,620 sq km
Age structure
0-14 years: 15.2% (male 205,154/female 194,386)
15-64 years: 62.6% (male 808,435/female 837,908)
65 years and over: 22.2% (2024 est.) (male 201,405/female 380,898)
15-64 years: 62.6% (male 808,435/female 837,908)
65 years and over: 22.2% (2024 est.) (male 201,405/female 380,898)
Sex ratio
At birth: 1.06 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.53 male(s)/female
Total population: 0.86 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
0-14 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.53 male(s)/female
Total population: 0.86 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Nationality
Noun: Lithuanian(s)
Adjective: Lithuanian
Adjective: Lithuanian
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
Total: 17 years (2022 est.)
Male: 16 years (2022 est.)
Female: 17 years (2022 est.)
Male: 16 years (2022 est.)
Female: 17 years (2022 est.)
Urbanization
Urban population: 68.7% of total population (2023)
Rate of urbanization: -0.12% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Rate of urbanization: -0.12% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Drinking water source
Improved:
Urban: 100% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 93.8% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 98% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 0% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 6.2% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 2% of population (2022 est.)
Urban: 100% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 93.8% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 98% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 0% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 6.2% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 2% of population (2022 est.)
Major urban areas - population
541,000 VILNIUS (capital) (2023)
Physician density
6.1 physicians/1,000 population (2023)
Hospital bed density
6 beds/1,000 population (2020 est.)
Mother's mean age at first birth
28.2 years (2020 est.)
Dependency ratios
Total dependency ratio: 55.9 (2024 est.)
Youth dependency ratio: 23.5 (2024 est.)
Elderly dependency ratio: 32.3 (2024 est.)
Potential support ratio: 3.1 (2024 est.)
Youth dependency ratio: 23.5 (2024 est.)
Elderly dependency ratio: 32.3 (2024 est.)
Potential support ratio: 3.1 (2024 est.)
Sanitation facility access
Improved:
Urban: 99% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 91.9% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 96.7% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 1% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 8.1% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 3.3% of population (2022 est.)
Urban: 99% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 91.9% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 96.7% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 1% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 8.1% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 3.3% of population (2022 est.)
Ethnic groups
Lithuanian 84.6%, Polish 6.5%, Russian 5%, Belarusian 1%, other 1.1%, unspecified 1.8% (2021 est.)
Religions
Roman Catholic 74.2%, Russian Orthodox 3.7%, Old Believer 0.6%, Evangelical Lutheran 0.6%, Evangelical Reformist 0.2%, other (including Sunni Muslim, Jewish, Greek Catholic, and Karaite) 0.9%, none 6.1%, unspecified 13.7% (2021 est.)
Languages
Lithuanian (official) 85.3%, Russian 6.8%, Polish 5.1%, other 1.1%, two mother tongues 1.7% (2021 est.)
Major-language sample(s):
Pasaulio enciklopedija – naudingas bendrosios informacijos šaltinis. (Lithuanian)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Major-language sample(s):
Pasaulio enciklopedija – naudingas bendrosios informacijos šaltinis. (Lithuanian)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Health expenditure
7.5% of GDP (2022)
13% of national budget (2022 est.)
13% of national budget (2022 est.)
Child marriage
Women married by age 15: 0% (2022)
Women married by age 18: 0.2% (2022)
Women married by age 18: 0.2% (2022)
Gross reproduction rate
0.79 (2024 est.)
Currently married women (ages 15-49)
51.8% (2024 est.)
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
Total: 14.1% (2024 est.)
Male: 16.3% (2024 est.)
Female: 11.7% (2024 est.)
note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Male: 16.3% (2024 est.)
Female: 11.7% (2024 est.)
note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Net migration rate
-4.1 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Median age
Total: 45.1 years (2024 est.)
Male: 40.9 years
Female: 49.2 years
Male: 40.9 years
Female: 49.2 years
Maternal mortality ratio
8 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Total fertility rate
1.62 children born/woman (2024 est.)
Population
Total: 2,628,186 (2024 est.)
Male: 1,214,994
Female: 1,413,192
Male: 1,214,994
Female: 1,413,192
Infant mortality rate
Total: 3.6 deaths/1,000 live births (2024 est.)
Male: 4 deaths/1,000 live births
Female: 3.1 deaths/1,000 live births
Male: 4 deaths/1,000 live births
Female: 3.1 deaths/1,000 live births
Tobacco use
Total: 26.6% (2025 est.)
Male: 38% (2025 est.)
Female: 16.7% (2025 est.)
Male: 38% (2025 est.)
Female: 16.7% (2025 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
26.3% (2016)
Death rate
15.2 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Birth rate
8.9 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight
1.1% (2021 est.)
Alcohol consumption per capita
Total: 11.93 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Beer: 4.61 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Wine: 0.88 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Spirits: 4.96 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Other alcohols: 1.48 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Beer: 4.61 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Wine: 0.88 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Spirits: 4.96 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Other alcohols: 1.48 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Life expectancy at birth
Total population: 76.1 years (2024 est.)
Male: 70.8 years
Female: 81.7 years
Male: 70.8 years
Female: 81.7 years
Education expenditure
4.3% of GDP (2022 est.)
11.8% national budget (2022 est.)
11.8% national budget (2022 est.)
Population growth rate
-1.05% (2024 est.)
Total water withdrawal
Municipal: 136.78 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Industrial: 87.96 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Agricultural: 58.74 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Industrial: 87.96 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Agricultural: 58.74 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Waste and recycling
Municipal solid waste generated annually: 1.315 million tons (2024 est.)
Percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 34.9% (2022 est.)
Percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 34.9% (2022 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
11.5 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
12.877 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From coal and metallurgical coke: 380,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From petroleum and other liquids: 9.61 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From consumed natural gas: 2.887 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From coal and metallurgical coke: 380,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From petroleum and other liquids: 9.61 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From consumed natural gas: 2.887 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Energy consumption per capita
83.7 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Kara C. McDONALD (since 26 January 2024)
Embassy: Akmenu gatve 6, Vilnius, LT-03106
Mailing address: 4510 Vilnius Place, Washington DC 20521-4510
Telephone: [370] (5) 266-5500
FAX: [370] (5) 266-5510
Email address and website:
Consec@state.gov
https://lt.usembassy.gov/
Embassy: Akmenu gatve 6, Vilnius, LT-03106
Mailing address: 4510 Vilnius Place, Washington DC 20521-4510
Telephone: [370] (5) 266-5500
FAX: [370] (5) 266-5510
Email address and website:
Consec@state.gov
https://lt.usembassy.gov/
Administrative divisions
60 municipalities (savivaldybe, singular - savivaldybe); Akmene, Alytaus Miestas, Alytus, Anksciai, Birstonas, Birzai, Druskininkai, Elektrenai, Ignalina, Jonava, Joniskis, Jurbarkas, Kaisiadorys, Kalvarija, Kauno Miestas, Kaunas, Kazlu Rudos, Kedainiai, Kelme, Klaipedos Miestas, Klaipeda, Kretinga, Kupiskis, Lazdijai, Marijampole, Mazeikiai, Moletai, Neringa, Pagegiai, Pakruojis, Palangos Miestas, Panevezio Miestas, Panevezys, Pasvalys, Plunge, Prienai, Radviliskis, Raseiniai, Rietavas, Rokiskis, Sakiai, Salcininkai, Siauliu Miestas, Siauliai, Silale, Silute, Sirvintos, Skuodas, Svencionys, Taurage, Telsiai, Trakai, Ukmerge, Utena, Varena, Vilkaviskis, Vilniaus Miestas, Vilnius, Visaginas, Zarasai
Capital
Name: Vilnius
Geographic coordinates: 54 41 N, 25 19 E
Time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
Etymology: Named after the Vilnia River; the river name is said to derive from the Lithuanian word vilnis, meaning "wave"
Geographic coordinates: 54 41 N, 25 19 E
Time difference: UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October
Etymology: Named after the Vilnia River; the river name is said to derive from the Lithuanian word vilnis, meaning "wave"
Constitution
History: Several previous; latest adopted by referendum 25 October 1992, entered into force 2 November 1992
Amendment process: Proposed by at least one fourth of all Parliament members or by petition of at least 300,000 voters; passage requires two-thirds majority vote of Parliament in each of two readings three months apart and a presidential signature; amendments to constitutional articles on national sovereignty and constitutional amendment procedure also require three-fourths voter approval in a referendum
Amendment process: Proposed by at least one fourth of all Parliament members or by petition of at least 300,000 voters; passage requires two-thirds majority vote of Parliament in each of two readings three months apart and a presidential signature; amendments to constitutional articles on national sovereignty and constitutional amendment procedure also require three-fourths voter approval in a referendum
Executive branch
Chief of state: President Gitanas NAUSEDA (since 12 July 2019)
Head of government: Prime Minister Inga RUGINIENE (since 25 September 2025)
Cabinet: Council of Ministers nominated by the prime minister, appointed by the president, approved by Parliament
Election/appointment process: President directly elected by absolute-majority popular vote in 2 rounds, if needed, for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); prime minister appointed by the president, approved by Parliament
Most recent election date: 26 May 2024
Election results:
2024: Gitanas NAUSEDA elected president in second round; percent of vote -Gitanas NAUSEDA (independent) 75.6%, Ingrida SIMONYTE (TS-LKD) 24.4%
2019: Gitanas NAUSEDA elected president in second round; percent of vote - Gitanas NAUSEDA (independent) 66.7%, Ingrida SIMONYTE (independent) 33.3%
Expected date of next election: 2029
Head of government: Prime Minister Inga RUGINIENE (since 25 September 2025)
Cabinet: Council of Ministers nominated by the prime minister, appointed by the president, approved by Parliament
Election/appointment process: President directly elected by absolute-majority popular vote in 2 rounds, if needed, for a 5-year term (eligible for a second term); prime minister appointed by the president, approved by Parliament
Most recent election date: 26 May 2024
Election results:
2024: Gitanas NAUSEDA elected president in second round; percent of vote -Gitanas NAUSEDA (independent) 75.6%, Ingrida SIMONYTE (TS-LKD) 24.4%
2019: Gitanas NAUSEDA elected president in second round; percent of vote - Gitanas NAUSEDA (independent) 66.7%, Ingrida SIMONYTE (independent) 33.3%
Expected date of next election: 2029
Flag
Description: Three equal horizontal bands of yellow (top), green, and red
Meaning: Yellow stands for golden fields, the sun, light, and goodness; green for the forests, nature, freedom, and hope; red for courage and the blood spilled in defense of the homeland
Meaning: Yellow stands for golden fields, the sun, light, and goodness; green for the forests, nature, freedom, and hope; red for courage and the blood spilled in defense of the homeland
Independence
16 February 1918 (from Soviet Russia and Germany); 11 March 1990 (declared from the Soviet Union); 6 September 1991 (recognized by the Soviet Union); notable earlier dates: 6 July 1253 (coronation of MINDAUGAS, traditional founding date); 1 July 1569 (Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth created)
Judicial branch
Highest court(s): Supreme Court (consists of 37 judges); Constitutional Court (consists of 9 judges)
Judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges nominated by the president and appointed by the Seimas; judges serve 5-year renewable terms; Constitutional Court judges appointed by the Seimas from nominations - 3 each by the president of the republic, the Seimas speaker, and the Supreme Court president; judges serve 9-year, nonrenewable terms; one third of membership reconstituted every 3 years
Subordinate courts: Court of Appeals; district and local courts
Judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges nominated by the president and appointed by the Seimas; judges serve 5-year renewable terms; Constitutional Court judges appointed by the Seimas from nominations - 3 each by the president of the republic, the Seimas speaker, and the Supreme Court president; judges serve 9-year, nonrenewable terms; one third of membership reconstituted every 3 years
Subordinate courts: Court of Appeals; district and local courts
Legal system
civil law system; legislative acts can be appealed to the Constitutional Court
Legislative branch
Legislature name: Parliament (Seimas)
Legislative structure: Unicameral
Number of seats: 141 (all directly elected)
Electoral system: Mixed system
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 4 years
Most recent election date: 10/13/2024 to 10/27/2024
Parties elected and seats per party: Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP) (52); Homeland Union - Lithuanian Christian Democrats (TS-LKD) (28); Political Party "The Dawn of Nemunas" (PPNA) (20); Union of Democrats “For Lithuania” (DSVL) (14); Liberals Movement of the Republic of Lithuania (LS) (12); Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union (LVŽS) (8); Other (7)
Percentage of women in chamber: 28.4%
Expected date of next election: October 2028
Legislative structure: Unicameral
Number of seats: 141 (all directly elected)
Electoral system: Mixed system
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 4 years
Most recent election date: 10/13/2024 to 10/27/2024
Parties elected and seats per party: Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP) (52); Homeland Union - Lithuanian Christian Democrats (TS-LKD) (28); Political Party "The Dawn of Nemunas" (PPNA) (20); Union of Democrats “For Lithuania” (DSVL) (14); Liberals Movement of the Republic of Lithuania (LS) (12); Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union (LVŽS) (8); Other (7)
Percentage of women in chamber: 28.4%
Expected date of next election: October 2028
International organization participation
Australia Group, BA, BIS, CBSS, CD, CE, EAPC, EBRD, ECB, EIB, EU, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, NATO, NIB, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OIF (observer), OPCW, OSCE, PCA, Schengen Convention, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHRC, UNIDO, UNWTO, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
National holiday
Independence Day (or National Day), 16 February (1918)
Note: 16 February 1918 was the date Lithuania established its statehood and independence from Soviet Russia and Germany; 11 March 1990 was the date it declared the restoration of statehood and independence from the Soviet Union
Note: 16 February 1918 was the date Lithuania established its statehood and independence from Soviet Russia and Germany; 11 March 1990 was the date it declared the restoration of statehood and independence from the Soviet Union
Political parties
Center-Right Union or CDS
Dawn of Nemunas or PPNA
Electoral Action of Poles in Lithuania - Christian Families Alliance or LLRA–KŠS
Homeland Union or TS-LKD
Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union or LVŽS
Liberals' Movement or LRLS
National Alliance or NS
Social Democratic Party of Lithuania or LSDP
Union of Democrats for Lithuania or DSVL
Dawn of Nemunas or PPNA
Electoral Action of Poles in Lithuania - Christian Families Alliance or LLRA–KŠS
Homeland Union or TS-LKD
Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union or LVŽS
Liberals' Movement or LRLS
National Alliance or NS
Social Democratic Party of Lithuania or LSDP
Union of Democrats for Lithuania or DSVL
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Government type
semi-presidential republic
Country name
Conventional long form: Republic of Lithuania
Conventional short form: Lithuania
Local long form: Lietuvos Respublika
Local short form: Lietuva
Former: Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic (while occupied by the USSR)
Etymology: Meaning of the name is obscure; may be derived from the local words lietava, meaning "small river," or lietus, meaning "rain" or "land of rain," or the Latin word litus, meaning "shore"
Conventional short form: Lithuania
Local long form: Lietuvos Respublika
Local short form: Lietuva
Former: Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic (while occupied by the USSR)
Etymology: Meaning of the name is obscure; may be derived from the local words lietava, meaning "small river," or lietus, meaning "rain" or "land of rain," or the Latin word litus, meaning "shore"
Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Gediminas VARVUOLIS (since 5 September 2025)
Chancery: 2622 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Telephone: [1] (202) 234-5860
FAX: [1] (202) 328-0466
Email address and website:
Info@usa.mfa.lt
https://usa.mfa.lt/usa/en/
Consulate(s) general: Chicago, Los Angeles, New York
Chancery: 2622 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Telephone: [1] (202) 234-5860
FAX: [1] (202) 328-0466
Email address and website:
Info@usa.mfa.lt
https://usa.mfa.lt/usa/en/
Consulate(s) general: Chicago, Los Angeles, New York
National anthem(s)
Title: "Tautiska giesme" (The National Song)
Lyrics/music: Vincas KUDIRKA
History: Adopted 1918, restored 1990; written in 1898 when Lithuania was part of Russia; banned during the Soviet occupation from 1940 to 1990
Lyrics/music: Vincas KUDIRKA
History: Adopted 1918, restored 1990; written in 1898 when Lithuania was part of Russia; banned during the Soviet occupation from 1940 to 1990
International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
National symbol(s)
mounted knight known as Vytis (the Chaser), white stork
Citizenship
Citizenship by birth: No
Citizenship by descent only: At least one parent must be a citizen of Lithuania
Dual citizenship recognized: No
Residency requirement for naturalization: 10 years
Citizenship by descent only: At least one parent must be a citizen of Lithuania
Dual citizenship recognized: No
Residency requirement for naturalization: 10 years
National heritage
Total World Heritage Sites: 5 (all cultural)
Selected World Heritage Site locales: Vilnius Historic Center; Curonian Spit; Kernavė Archaeological Site; Struve Geodetic Arc; Modernist Kaunas: Architecture of Optimism, 1919-1939
Selected World Heritage Site locales: Vilnius Historic Center; Curonian Spit; Kernavė Archaeological Site; Struve Geodetic Arc; Modernist Kaunas: Architecture of Optimism, 1919-1939
National color(s)
yellow, green, red
Population below poverty line
20.9% (2021 est.)
note: % of population with income below national poverty line
note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Household income or consumption by percentage share
Lowest 10%: 2.5% (2022 est.)
Highest 10%: 28.7% (2022 est.)
note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Highest 10%: 28.7% (2022 est.)
note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Exports - commodities
refined petroleum, furniture, plastic products, wheat, cars (2023)
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Exports - partners
Latvia 11%, Poland 8%, Germany 7%, Netherlands 6%, Russia 6% (2023)
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Agricultural products
wheat, milk, sugar beets, rapeseed, barley, potatoes, triticale, oats, beans, peas (2023)
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Budget
Revenues: $28.011 billion (2023 est.)
Expenditures: $28.68 billion (2023 est.)
note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Expenditures: $28.68 billion (2023 est.)
note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Imports - commodities
crude petroleum, cars, natural gas, packaged medicine, plastic products (2023)
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Exchange rates
euros (EUR) per US dollar -
Exchange rates:
0.924 (2024 est.)
0.925 (2023 est.)
0.95 (2022 est.)
0.845 (2021 est.)
0.876 (2020 est.)
Exchange rates:
0.924 (2024 est.)
0.925 (2023 est.)
0.95 (2022 est.)
0.845 (2021 est.)
0.876 (2020 est.)
Industries
metal-cutting machine tools, electric motors, televisions, refrigerators and freezers, petroleum refining, shipbuilding (small ships), furniture, textiles, food processing, fertilizer, agricultural machinery, optical equipment, lasers, electronic components, computers, amber jewelry, information technology, video game development, app/software development, biotechnology
Economic overview
High-income EU and eurozone member, largest Baltic economy; recovery supported by private consumption and EU fund-driven investments; structural challenges include pension reform, aging workforce, and high energy-import costs
GDP (official exchange rate)
$84.869 billion (2024 est.)
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate
GDP - composition, by end use
Household consumption: 57.3% (2023 est.)
Government consumption: 17.3% (2023 est.)
Investment in fixed capital: 23.7% (2023 est.)
Investment in inventories: -1.8% (2023 est.)
Exports of goods and services: 76.5% (2023 est.)
Imports of goods and services: -72.6% (2023 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Government consumption: 17.3% (2023 est.)
Investment in fixed capital: 23.7% (2023 est.)
Investment in inventories: -1.8% (2023 est.)
Exports of goods and services: 76.5% (2023 est.)
Imports of goods and services: -72.6% (2023 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Imports - partners
Germany 13%, Poland 13%, Latvia 8%, USA 7%, Norway 5% (2023)
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Average household expenditures
On food: 19.4% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
On alcohol and tobacco: 5.5% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
On alcohol and tobacco: 5.5% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Remittances
1.2% of GDP (2024 est.)
1.2% of GDP (2023 est.)
1% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
1.2% of GDP (2023 est.)
1% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Labor force
1.548 million (2024 est.)
note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
$7.406 billion (2024 est.)
$6.168 billion (2023 est.)
$5.365 billion (2022 est.)
note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
$6.168 billion (2023 est.)
$5.365 billion (2022 est.)
note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Public debt
36.9% of GDP (2023 est.)
note: central government debt as a % of GDP
note: central government debt as a % of GDP
Unemployment rate
7.6% (2024 est.)
6.9% (2023 est.)
6% (2022 est.)
note: % of labor force seeking employment
6.9% (2023 est.)
6% (2022 est.)
note: % of labor force seeking employment
Taxes and other revenues
21.4% (of GDP) (2023 est.)
note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$136.227 billion (2024 est.)
$132.552 billion (2023 est.)
$132.099 billion (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
$132.552 billion (2023 est.)
$132.099 billion (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
Inflation rate (consumer prices)
0.7% (2024 est.)
9.1% (2023 est.)
19.7% (2022 est.)
note: annual % change based on consumer prices
9.1% (2023 est.)
19.7% (2022 est.)
note: annual % change based on consumer prices
Current account balance
$2.101 billion (2024 est.)
$878.388 million (2023 est.)
-$4.322 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
$878.388 million (2023 est.)
-$4.322 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Real GDP per capita
$47,200 (2024 est.)
$46,200 (2023 est.)
$46,700 (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
$46,200 (2023 est.)
$46,700 (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
Imports
$58.491 billion (2024 est.)
$57.899 billion (2023 est.)
$62.916 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
$57.899 billion (2023 est.)
$62.916 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports
$62.896 billion (2024 est.)
$61.02 billion (2023 est.)
$61.448 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
$61.02 billion (2023 est.)
$61.448 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Real GDP growth rate
2.8% (2024 est.)
0.3% (2023 est.)
2.5% (2022 est.)
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency
0.3% (2023 est.)
2.5% (2022 est.)
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency
Industrial production growth rate
3.2% (2024 est.)
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
Agriculture: 2.6% (2024 est.)
Industry: 23.4% (2024 est.)
Services: 63.6% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Industry: 23.4% (2024 est.)
Services: 63.6% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Electricity access
Electrification - total population: 100% (2022 est.)
Coal
Consumption: 166,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Exports: 78,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Imports: 149,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Exports: 78,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Imports: 149,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
Fossil fuels: 16.3% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Solar: 14.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Wind: 51% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Hydroelectricity: 4.8% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Biomass and waste: 13.8% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Solar: 14.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Wind: 51% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Hydroelectricity: 4.8% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Biomass and waste: 13.8% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Natural gas
Consumption: 1.49 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
Exports: 1.867 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
Imports: 3.282 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
Exports: 1.867 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
Imports: 3.282 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
Petroleum
Total petroleum production: 4,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Refined petroleum consumption: 67,000 bbl/day (2024 est.)
Crude oil estimated reserves: 12 million barrels (2021 est.)
Refined petroleum consumption: 67,000 bbl/day (2024 est.)
Crude oil estimated reserves: 12 million barrels (2021 est.)
Electricity
Installed generating capacity: 5.426 million kW (2023 est.)
Consumption: 10.992 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Exports: 3.98 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Imports: 10.91 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Transmission/distribution losses: 829.9 million kWh (2023 est.)
Consumption: 10.992 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Exports: 3.98 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Imports: 10.91 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Transmission/distribution losses: 829.9 million kWh (2023 est.)
Internet users
Percent of population: 89% (2023 est.)
Internet country code
.lt
Broadcast media
public broadcaster operates 3 channels, with the third channel (satellite) introduced in 2007; various privately owned commercial TV broadcasters operate national and multiple regional channels; many privately owned local TV stations; multi-channel cable and satellite TV services available; publicly owned broadcaster operates 3 radio networks; many privately owned commercial broadcasters, with repeater stations in various regions
Telephones - mobile cellular
Total subscriptions: 3.92 million (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 139 (2022 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 139 (2022 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions
Total: 806,000 (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 28 (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 28 (2023 est.)
Telephones - fixed lines
Total subscriptions: 224,000 (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 8 (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 8 (2023 est.)
Railways
Total: 1,911 km (2020) 152 km electrified
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
LY
Airports
64 (2025)
Merchant marine
Total: 59 (2023)
By type: Container ship 3, general cargo 19, oil tanker 2, other 35
By type: Container ship 3, general cargo 19, oil tanker 2, other 35
Heliports
2 (2025)
Military service age and obligation
19-26 years of age for conscripted military service for men; 9-month service obligation; 18-38 for voluntary service for men and women; 18-60 for the National Defense Volunteer Services (2025)
Note 1: In 2015, Lithuania reinstated conscription after having converted to a professional military in 2008; it conscripts up to 4,000 men each year; conscripts are selected using an automated lottery system
Note 2: As of 2020, women comprised about 12% of the military's full-time personnel
Note 1: In 2015, Lithuania reinstated conscription after having converted to a professional military in 2008; it conscripts up to 4,000 men each year; conscripts are selected using an automated lottery system
Note 2: As of 2020, women comprised about 12% of the military's full-time personnel
Military expenditures
4% of GDP (2025 est.)
3.1% of GDP (2024 est.)
2.7% of GDP (2023 est.)
2.4% of GDP (2022 est.)
2% of GDP (2021 est.)
3.1% of GDP (2024 est.)
2.7% of GDP (2023 est.)
2.4% of GDP (2022 est.)
2% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military and security forces
Lithuanian Armed Forces (Lietuvos Ginkluotosios Pajegos): Lithuanian Land Forces (LLF), Lithuanian Navy, Lithuanian Air Force (LTAF), Lithuanian Special Operations Forces (LITHSOF); National Defense Volunteer Forces (2025)
Note 1: The National Rifleman's Union is a civilian paramilitary organization supported by the Lithuanian Government, which cooperates with the military but is not part of it; however, in a state of war, its armed formations would fall under the Armed Forces
Note 2: The Lithuanian Police and State Border Guard Service are under the Ministry of Interior; in wartime, the State Border Guard Service becomes part of the armed forces
Note 1: The National Rifleman's Union is a civilian paramilitary organization supported by the Lithuanian Government, which cooperates with the military but is not part of it; however, in a state of war, its armed formations would fall under the Armed Forces
Note 2: The Lithuanian Police and State Border Guard Service are under the Ministry of Interior; in wartime, the State Border Guard Service becomes part of the armed forces
Military - note
the Lithuanian Armed Forces are responsible for the defense of the country’s interests, sovereignty, and territory, fulfilling Lithuania’s commitments to NATO and European security, and contributing to UN international peacekeeping efforts; Russia is Lithuania’s primary security focus, which has only increased since the Russian seizure of Crimea in 2014 and subsequent full-scale attack on Ukraine in 2022; Lithuania has been a member of NATO since 2004 and is reliant on the Alliance as the country’s security guarantor; it is actively engaged in both NATO and EU security, as well as bilaterally with allies such as the other Baltic States, Germany, Poland, the UK, Ukraine, and the US; the Lithuanian military has participated in NATO and EU missions abroad and regularly conducts training and exercises with NATO and EU partner forces; it hosts NATO forces, is a member of the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force, and contributes troops to a multinational brigade with Poland and Ukraine; Lithuania participated in its first UN peacekeeping mission in 1994
Since 2017, Lithuania has hosted a German-led multinational NATO ground force battlegroup as part of the Alliance’s Enhanced Forward Presence initiative; NATO has also provided air protection for Lithuania since 2004 through its Baltic Air Policing mission; NATO fighter aircraft are hosted at Lithuania’s Šiauliai Air Base (2025)
Since 2017, Lithuania has hosted a German-led multinational NATO ground force battlegroup as part of the Alliance’s Enhanced Forward Presence initiative; NATO has also provided air protection for Lithuania since 2004 through its Baltic Air Policing mission; NATO fighter aircraft are hosted at Lithuania’s Šiauliai Air Base (2025)
Military and security service personnel strengths
approximately 20,000 active-duty military personnel (2025)
Military deployments
Note: Contributes about 350-550 troops to the Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine joint military brigade (LITPOLUKRBRIG), which was established in 2014; the brigade is headquartered in Poland and is comprised of an international staff, three battalions, and specialized units; units affiliated with the multinational brigade remain within the structures of the armed forces of their respective countries until the brigade is activated for participation in an international operation
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the military's inventory is a mix of mostly European and US armaments (2025)
Refugees and internally displaced persons
Refugees: 53,859 (2024 est.)
Stateless persons: 2,236 (2024 est.)
Stateless persons: 2,236 (2024 est.)
Nuclear energy
Number of nuclear reactors permanently shut down: 2 (2025)
Ports
Total ports: 2 (2024)
Large: 0
Medium: 1
Small: 0
Very small: 1
Ports with oil terminals: 2
Key ports: Butinge Oil Terminal, Klaipeda
Large: 0
Medium: 1
Small: 0
Very small: 1
Ports with oil terminals: 2
Key ports: Butinge Oil Terminal, Klaipeda
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
36.6 (2022 est.)
note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality