Lithuania has emerged as an attractive destination for international students, with its globally recognized higher education system providing relatively affordable education. According to the latest data, 7,800 foreign students studied in Lithuanian universities in the 2021-2022 academic year, accounting for 7.6% of all university students. This figure represents a significant increase in the number of international students, reflecting the country’s growing appeal to students from diverse backgrounds. The Lithuanian education system is known for its quality, with universities offering a wide range of programs in various fields, including medicine, humanities, mathematics, computer science, physical sciences, social sciences, educational sciences, law, business, and public management. Additionally, The employment market in Lithuania is booming, with a high employment rate among the working-age population, particularly for those with tertiary education. The country’s average employment rate among 20-64-year-olds was 89.3%, compared to 85.2% for those without tertiary education in 2020. This indicates a strong job market that can offer students a range of employment opportunities upon graduation. Despite the affordable tuition rates, it can still be hard to pursue full-time studies without breaking the bank. A lot of the students rely on scholarship programs to alleviate their financial stress. In addition to scholarships, international students can work and study in Lithuania, part-time to help cover their expenses. This part-time employment not only helps students meet their financial needs but also provides them with valuable work experience and personal growth opportunities.
This article will delve deeper into the nitty-gritty of working and studying in Lithuania, types of employment, popular jobs, how to find them, and so on.
Work and Study in Lithuania: Highlights
| Popular Jobs | Teaching Assistant, Retail Assistant, Delivery Rider, Baristas etc. |
| Work Hours |
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| Where to Find Jobs | Online Job Portals, personal networks, university career centers, etc. |
| Average Earning | 964 EUR/ Month (Minimum Wage) |
How many hours can international students work in Lithuania?
International students in Lithuania have different working hour restrictions depending on their nationality. EU students and citizens of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are allowed to work up to 40 hours per week without any limitations. Non-EU students can work for a maximum of 20 hours per week. On the other hand, PhD students can work full-time.
However, they can work full-time during their studies without a work permit if they have a temporary residence permit. During the first 3 months after graduation, non-EU students can work full-time.
After residing in Lithuania for 12 months, non-EU students can apply for a temporary residence permit valid for 12 months for work purposes, which allows them to start working immediately after getting employed. Non-EU students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during their studies and can work full-time during their final year of studies. After graduation, non-EU students can apply for a temporary residence permit for 12 additional months for job search and self-employment purposes. During these 12 additional months, no additional work permit is required.
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Work and Study in Lithuania: Types of Part-Time Jobs
Part-time jobs for international students in Lithuania can be categorized into the following types:
On-campus jobs: These positions are typically part-time and designed to fit around a student’s schedule. They provide a convenient way to earn money and help students become more involved in campus life. Working on campus can lead to networking opportunities and the development of skills relevant to one’s academic and future professional pursuits. These can include jobs like administrative assistant, library assistant, etc.
Off-campus jobs: These roles offer a broader range of opportunities and often give students a chance to interact with the local community. Off-campus jobs can be more diverse, allowing students to gain experience in industries that may not be directly represented on campus. However, they may require more travel and time management skills to balance work and study. These jobs are more diverse and include positions in the fields of hospitality, retail, service, etc.
Internships: Internships are structured programs that provide hands-on experience and are often aligned with a student’s academic and career goals. They can be paid or unpaid and sometimes offer academic credit. Internships are valuable for building a professional network, understanding workplace dynamics, and gaining industry-specific knowledge.
Online jobs: The digital nature of these jobs offers flexibility in terms of location and hours, making them ideal for students with busy schedules. Online jobs can range from freelance writing and graphic design to virtual assistance and digital marketing. They allow students to work from the comfort of their dorm room or home, often on a project basis.
Seasonal jobs: Seasonal jobs correspond to peaks in demand during certain times of the year, such as the holiday season. These jobs can include retail positions during the Christmas shopping rush or tour guide roles in tourist hotspots during peak travel seasons. Seasonal jobs are an excellent opportunity for students to earn money during their school breaks while gaining work experience.’
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Work and Study in Lithuania: Popular Part-Time Jobs
Teaching Assistant: This on-campus role is typically available within various university departments. Teaching Assistants (TAs) are responsible for supporting professors with instructional duties, which may include grading assignments, leading discussion sections, and providing academic assistance to students.
Library Monitor: Library Monitors play a crucial role in managing the circulation of books and ensuring that the library environment remains conducive to study. They may also assist students in locating resources and maintaining the organization of library materials.
Research Assistant: Research Assistants support faculty members’ research projects, often within the student’s field of study. This role involves tasks such as data collection, analysis, and literature reviews, providing valuable experience in academic research methodologies.
IT Support: IT Support staff on campus help resolve technical issues for students and faculty, maintain computer labs, and ensure the smooth operation of the university’s IT infrastructure. They may also assist with software installations and network troubleshooting.
Barista/Café Worker: Off-campus barista or café worker positions involve preparing and serving beverages, such as coffee and tea, as well as snacks. These roles require excellent customer service skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Retail Assistant: Retail Assistants work in various shops and are involved in sales transactions, customer service, and stocking shelves. They must be knowledgeable about the products they sell and adept at handling different types of customers.
Tour Guide: Knowledgeable about the local area, Tour Guides lead groups of visitors through attractions, providing interesting information and answering questions. This job is ideal for those who enjoy interacting with people and have a passion for sharing their local culture.
Bartender/Waitstaff: Working as a Bartender or Waitstaff in restaurants and bars is a common evening job for students. These roles involve serving food and drinks, managing customer orders, and ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
Customer Service Representative: Customer Service Representatives handle customer inquiries and complaints, often in call centers or online support platforms. Some positions may offer the flexibility of remote work, allowing employees to assist customers from home.
Online Tutor: Online Tutors provide instruction in languages or other subjects to students across the globe via the Internet. This role requires strong communication skills and a thorough understanding of the subject matter being taught. It’s a great way to connect with learners from diverse backgrounds and make a positive impact on their education.
It’s important to note that while many programs are offered in English, proficiency in Lithuanian may be beneficial for some job opportunities, especially in sectors with significant local interaction.
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How Much Can International Students Earn in Lithuania?
The average monthly income in Lithuania stands at approximately 1,666.9 EUR. Part-time working students are likely to earn below this average due to the restricted number of hours they are permitted to work. The compensation for part-time employment can vary significantly, with wages typically hovering around or just above the minimum wage level. As of the first quarter of 2024, the minimum wage in Lithuania is set at 924 EUR per month. It’s important to note that salaries can differ markedly across various sectors and industries.
Students from non-EU countries are allowed to remain in Lithuania for an additional year post-graduation to seek employment. During this period, they are entitled to work full-time and may earn an average wage or possibly more, contingent upon the prevailing job market conditions and their professional qualifications. The personal income tax rate for employees in Lithuania is 20% for monthly earnings below 7,520.50 EUR and 32% for incomes that surpass this threshold.
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Tips for Finding Jobs for International Students in Lithuania
Understand Visa Regulations: Before searching for employment, it’s crucial to understand the visa regulations governing international students in Lithuania. Some visas may restrict the number of hours students can work during term time, while others may require a work permit.
Utilize University Resources: Many universities in Lithuania offer career services and job placement assistance to their students. These resources can include job fairs, career counseling, and internship opportunities tailored to international students.
Networking: Networking is essential in Lithuania, as it is in many other countries. Attend networking events, workshops, and seminars to connect with professionals in your field. Joining student clubs and organizations can also provide valuable networking opportunities.
Language Skills: While many Lithuanians speak English, proficiency in the Lithuanian language can significantly enhance your job prospects, especially for positions requiring direct interaction with local clients or customers. Consider taking language courses to improve your language skills.
Online Job Portals: Explore online job portals specific to Lithuania, such as cv.lt, cvonline.lt, or workinlithuania.lt. These platforms advertise job vacancies across various industries and sectors, including internships and part-time positions suitable for students.
Internships and Traineeships: Internships and traineeships are excellent ways for international students to gain work experience and build professional networks in Lithuania. Many companies offer internships to students, providing valuable insights into the local job market.
Freelancing and Remote Work: With the rise of remote work opportunities, international students can explore freelancing platforms to find remote job opportunities in Lithuania or with international companies. Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr offer a wide range of freelance gigs.
Work in International Companies: Some international companies operating in Lithuania may prefer hiring English-speaking employees, creating job opportunities for international students. Research multinational companies with a presence in Lithuania and inquire about job openings or internship programs.
Work in the Education Sector: International students with relevant qualifications and language skills may find employment opportunities in the education sector, such as language teaching or tutoring positions.
Legal Compliance: Ensure that any job you apply for complies with Lithuanian labor laws and regulations. Be aware of your rights as an international student employee, including minimum wage requirements and working hour restrictions.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be extremely rewarding to work and study in Lithuania, considering the large number of opportunities and the potential benefits. However, achieving a good work-study-life balance is crucial for a successful experience. As a student, prioritizing your education is paramount. To make the most of your time in Lithuania as a working student, it is essential to conduct thorough research, choose employment that supports your academic goals, and maintain a healthy balance between work and study commitments. Avoiding overwork, following workplace regulations, and understanding your rights as an employee are key factors in ensuring a fulfilling and enriching experience while pursuing both work and education in Lithuania. For more information about working as a student in Lithuania, and other queries related to studying in Lithuania or elsewhere, feel free to contact our admission experts at Gyanberry. Book your free video call appointment now!
