If you are a foreigner living and working in Lithuania, the Lithuanian language exam is no longer optional for many professions. From 2026, a new version of the Lithuanian State Language Law requires foreign nationals to pass an official language exam, so starting preparation early is strongly recommended.
This guide explains who must take the exam, what level is required, how to register, and how to prepare effectively.
Who Must Pass the Lithuanian Language Exam?
The 2026 State Language Law applies to foreign nationals working in customer-facing or public-sector roles. Requirements vary by profession and are divided into three categories:
Basic or Category I (A1–A2 level). This is the most common requirement, covering the majority of service sector workers:
- Salespeople and customer service consultants
- Waiters and bartenders
- Taxi and rideshare drivers
- Service workers such as hairdressers and cosmetologists
Category II (B1 level)
- School and kindergarten staff
- Social workers
- Nurses and medical assistants
- Employees of cultural institutions
Category III (B2 level)
- Civil servants and officials
- Teachers teaching in the official language
- Heads of state and municipal institutions
- Aviation professionals
If you are unsure which category applies to your profession, the National Agency of Education (NSA) provides official guidance at https://www.nsa.smsm.lt/for-foreigners/
Is Lithuanian Hard to Learn?
Many foreigners living in Lithuania wonder how difficult Lithuanian is to learn. Lithuanian can feel challenging at first — it has seven noun cases, long words, and sounds unfamiliar to most English or Russian speakers.
However, reaching A1 level — which is what most service sector workers need — is realistic for most learners within 3–4 months with structured lessons and regular practice. At A1 level, you are not expected to speak fluently. At this level, you should be able to handle basic everyday interactions, answer simple questions, and communicate in common work situations.
Most learners make faster progress when lessons focus on practical communication and regular speaking practice.
Lithuanian Language Exam Dates in 2026
Four Lithuanian language exam dates are currently planned for 2026. Registration for each date opens approximately one month before the exam:
- 2026 06 04 — registration is now open
- 2026 08 20 — registration opens 2026 07 21
- 2026 10 07 — registration opens 2026 09 07
- 2026 11 11 — registration opens 2026 10 12
The exam costs €52 and can be taken in multiple cities across Lithuania — you are not required to take it in the city where you live. The full list of exam locations is available on the NSA website: https://www.nsa.smsm.lt/for-foreigners/lietuviu-kalbos-egzaminai-uzsienieciams/tvarkarastis/
How to Register for the Lithuanian Language Exam
Registration is done through the National Agency of Education (NSA) online system. Here are the steps:
Step 1 — Self-assessment. Before registering, assess your current Lithuanian language level. If you are a beginner, this is the point at which most people enrol in a preparation course.
Step 2 — Create an account at NSA. Register at https://eksternams.nsa.smm.lt/register. You will need this account to select your exam date and location. Tutorial on how to create an account and register for the exam is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQzALu48yaQ
Step 3 — Select your exam date and location. Choose from the available dates and select the most convenient exam location. You can choose any city in Lithuania, not only where you live.
Step 4 — Prepare for the exam. Preparing in advance usually makes the exam much less stressful. Most people find the exam much more manageable after several months of preparation. A structured Lithuanian language course for foreigners gives you the knowledge, exam-style practice, and speaking confidence you need.
Step 5 — Take the exam. On exam day, you will be assessed on listening, reading, writing, and speaking at the required level.
Step 6 — Receive your certificate. After the exam, your level is determined and a state-recognised certificate is issued.
How Long Does It Take to Prepare?
For most beginners aiming for the A1 level, structured preparation takes approximately 3–4 months with two lessons per week. This is usually enough time to practise the vocabulary, grammar, and speaking tasks included in the exam.
Starting at least 3–4 months before your chosen exam date is strongly recommended. If you have less time, an intensive course covering the same material in 3 weeks of daily lessons is also an option.
How to Learn Lithuanian for the Exam — and Beyond
Learning Lithuanian does not have to stop at the exam. Many foreigners who start with exam preparation discover that even a basic level of Lithuanian makes everyday communication in Lithuania much easier — at work, in shops, with neighbours, and in building relationships with Lithuanian colleagues.
Most learners progress faster with regular lessons, speaking practice, and consistent exposure to the language outside the classroom — through conversations, audio, and everyday situations.
Lithuanian Language Courses for Foreigners at Skrivanek
Skrivanek offers online Lithuanian language courses designed for foreigners who live or work in Lithuania. All courses are taught in English or Russian in small groups of up to 6 people. 90% of Skrivanek students pass the A1 exam on the first try.
Prepare for the Lithuanian Language Exam (A1). The course is structured around the A1 exam format, covering the main skills and tasks included in the exam. Teachers also help students prepare for the exam process — from the first lesson to exam day, including help with exam registration.
Learn Lithuanian for Everyday Life (A1–A2). For those who want to learn Lithuanian in a supportive environment and feel confident in everyday situations — at work, in the city, and in social settings.
Intensive Lithuanian Language Course. A 3-week programme for those who need to build skills quickly. Daily lessons from 10:00 to 13:00, Monday to Friday, covering speaking, listening, vocabulary, and essential everyday phrases.
Permanent Residence Permit in Lithuania
If your goal is to obtain a permanent residence permit in Lithuania rather than simply meet work requirements, note that you must pass two exams: the State Language Exam and the Constitution Exam. For more information on the permit process, visit the Migration Department at https://www.migracija.lt/home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Lithuanian language exam mandatory for all foreigners in Lithuania? Not for all foreigners — it depends on your profession. Service sector workers, customer-facing staff, and many public sector employees are required to pass at minimum the A1–A2 level exam from 2026.
How much does the Lithuanian language exam cost? The official exam fee is €52, paid at registration through the NSA system.
Can I take the exam in English or Russian? The exam itself is in Lithuanian, as it tests your Lithuanian language proficiency. However, preparation courses at Skrivanek are taught in English or Russian, so beginners can comfortably follow lessons from the start.
What happens if I do not pass the exam? You can retake the exam on the next available date.
Planning to take the Lithuanian language exam in 2026? Register for a Lithuanian language course or contact us to choose a course that fits your schedule and current level.
