Foreign societies in Lithuania
In Lithuania, there are more than 145,000 foreigners living with residence permits. The clear majority is from Russia, Ukraine and Belarus, as well as arrivals from other EU countries. More and more foreigners from India, the United States, Turkey and other countries are coming to Lithuania. While living in Lithuania, foreign citizens unite in communities, which help them to keep in touch with the traditions of their country and other fellow countrymen residing in Lithuania. Some official communities are united in associations. There are also many informal communities. You can find more information about them on social media and on the website of the House of National Communities.
This Facebook group amasses all foreigners in Vilnius seeking to find common minds among the many expatriates in Lithuania’s largest city. This community is keen on providing useful advice for foreigners coming to and living in Vilnius, sharing information about relevant events happening in the city and organizing meet-ups or foreign cultural, national or religious celebrations. Read more
International Women's Association of Vilnius (IWAV)
IWAV is a non-governmental and non-profit association which serves as a forum for socialising, networking and charitable giving. The association is run by volunteers who attend monthly board meetings to oversee the general business of the association. The language of communication at IWAV is English, though the members form a diverse group, including speakers of Lithuanian, Russian, French, Italian, Spanish, Swedish, Finnish, etc. The IWAV offers plenty of opportunities for its members to socialise, learn or practice a skill, explore Vilnius and its surroundings, and broaden their horizons. The regular activities are such as charity events, monthly coffee mornings, monthly members socials, and walking groups, among others. Read more
InterNations is a social media-based platform for connecting all internationals around the world. The group for expatriates in Lithuania is especially busy – counting almost 4 000 members regularly sharing their experiences and knowledgeable advice. This platform provides a network of connections and opportunities for newcomers from many different regions around the globe, helping you explore and settle in the new surroundings. Read more
The Baltic Turkish Culture Academy seeks to promote nation-wide acceptance of different cultures and people in Lithuania. Balturka promotes various cultural events happening in Lithuania and celebrating the different cultures of local minorities, organizes classes on Turkish Language and Cultures. Balturka actively seeks volunteers not only those of Turkish origin but those keen on the idea of spreading acceptance of minorities in Lithuania. Read more
In Lithuania there are various governmental and non-governmental organizations that facilitate the integration of foreigners into Lithuanian society. Training centers for migrants and various projects that facilitate easier adaptation in new conditions are being implemented. With their help, migrants are provided legal advice, job counseling, various cultural events and other activities.
Established in Vilnius (Kalvarijų g. 39) opened in spring of 2016. The center aims to create a hospitable environment for refugees, migrants and third country nationals. They are trying to provide them with all kinds of help and help meet local communities. The center organizes educational activities for children and adults, provides social, legal, psychological counseling. At the day center you can use computers, the Internet, library, attend Lithuanian, English and German language courses. The center's volunteer team helps building social relationships with local communities. Foreigners are also invited to take part in different activities: events, trainings, camps, various initiatives, etc. Read more (in Lithuanian)
(Turgaus a. 23) provides social, legal, psychological and vocational guidance counseling. It also organizes information events (seminars on relevant topics for migrants), Lithuanian language training and public awareness training. The purpose of these services is to fill the information gaps of third-country nationals, to facilitate the process of integration and to improve the quality of life in Lithuania. The complex of these services enables third-country nationals to feel more free, to participate more actively in the life of the host country, to get to know the city life, community, culture, traditions, engage in various activities, find a job, etc. All this has a positive impact on the adaptation and integration of third-country nationals in Lithuania. Read more