Lithuania (LT)
Lithuania is the largest and most southerly of the three Baltic states, a semi-presidential EU republic celebrated for its remarkably preserved Baroque capital Vilnius (UNESCO World Heritage), dramatic coastal dunes at Neringa (also UNESCO), vibrant startup and fintech ecosystem (home of Revolut HQ, Vinted, Nord Security, and Hostinger), rapidly rising living standards, and a resilient population with deep cultural roots stretching back to one of the last pagan civilisations in Europe to adopt Christianity.
Bringing Pets to Lithuania
Requirements, costs and process for relocating with your pets.
Vaccinations
Restricted Breeds
Plus Specific breeds are not banned in Lithuania by national law, but municipalities may impose local restrictions. Check with Vilnius or your specific municipality. Pit bull terrier types may face restrictions in some contexts. Certain imported dogs from non-EU countries may require additional documentation.
💰 Costs
EU Pet Passport: €20–50 (from your vet). Rabies vaccination: €20–40. Vet health certificate for non-EU travel: €30–60. Microchipping (if not already done): €15–30. Import permit for non-EU (if required): minimal fee. Total typical costs from EU country: €50–120. From non-EU country: €100–300 including documentation.
🐕 Dog Tax / Registration
Lithuania has a municipal dog registration fee (šunų registracija) — typically €5–15 per year depending on municipality. Required for all dogs over 3 months old. Proof of neutering/spaying may reduce the fee. Register at your savivaldybė within 30 days of arrival in Lithuania or acquiring a dog.
Register with a local Lithuanian veterinarian (veterinarijos gydykla) within the first weeks of arrival. Lithuanian vets are well-trained and services are affordable by Western European standards. A veterinary consultation costs €15–40 for a standard check-up. 24-hour emergency vet clinics operate in Vilnius (e.g., Animex, BENU Vet). The State Food and Veterinary Service (VMVT — vmvt.lt) oversees veterinary regulations.
📋 Relocation Process
From EU/EEA countries: (1) Ensure your pet is microchipped (ISO 11784/11785 standard). (2) Ensure current rabies vaccination is recorded in EU Pet Passport. (3) Bring EU Pet Passport. Veterinary check at border optional. (4) No quarantine required. From non-EU countries: (1) Microchip your pet. (2) Rabies vaccination at least 21 days before entry (for primary vaccination). (3) Obtain a health certificate from an accredited vet in your country. (4) Get the certificate certified/endorsed by the official veterinary authority. (5) May need a blood titre test (rabies antibody test) if arriving from a non-listed country. (6) Declare pet at border. After arrival: register your pet with a Lithuanian veterinary clinic within a reasonable period. Dogs must be registered with the local municipality (savivaldybė) in most cities.
Lithuania is a dog-friendly country — dogs are welcome in many outdoor café terraces and parks. Most public parks in Vilnius have designated dog areas (šunų parkai) with agility equipment. Dogs must be kept on leash in most public spaces and owners are required to clean up after their pets (fine for non-compliance). In forests, dogs should be controlled around wildlife. Cats and small pets: no registration requirement beyond vaccination. Exotic pets (reptiles, birds, primates): CITES regulations apply — documentation required for importation. Contact the VMVT for specific regulations.