United States Visa RequirementsFor Lithuania passport holders
Lithuanian passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Lithuania passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Lithuania to United States: What You Need to Know
Lithuania joined the US Visa Waiver Program in 2008, marking an important milestone in its post-independence Euro-Atlantic integration. The US and Lithuania have close bilateral ties rooted in the support the US gave to Baltic independence in 1990-1991 and continued through NATO membership and military cooperation. A notable Lithuanian-American diaspora exists, especially in Chicago (which has one of the largest Lithuanian communities outside Lithuania), as well as in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts. Vilnius Airport (VNO) connects to European hubs. Lithuanian nationals with a non-VWP second passport must use their Lithuanian passport for ESTA.
How to Get There
From Vilnius (VNO), connections to the US route via Amsterdam (AMS) with KLM, Frankfurt (FRA) with Lufthansa, Helsinki (HEL) with Finnair, or Warsaw (WAW) with LOT Polish Airlines. Common US gateways include New York (JFK/EWR) and Chicago (ORD), which has strong Lithuanian community ties.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Cards are universally accepted. Tipping is a social obligation in the US: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink, a few dollars for taxis and hotel housekeeping. This differs from Lithuanian norms where tipping is more discretionary. Exchange Euros to USD before travel or use US ATMs. Notify your bank before leaving.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight. The 90-day limit is firm. If visiting Lithuanian-American communities in Chicago, having contact details and an invitation letter helps at customs. Carry proof of return travel and financial means. US border officers ask standard questions; answer clearly and honestly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Lithuanian citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. Lithuania joined the US Visa Waiver Program in 2008. Lithuanian passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but must obtain an ESTA before traveling.
How do Lithuanian citizens apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Complete the form, pay $21, and receive authorization, usually within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
What airlines fly from Lithuania to the United States?
There are no direct flights from Vilnius (VNO) to the US. Connections via Amsterdam (AMS) with KLM, Frankfurt (FRA) with Lufthansa, or Warsaw (WAW) with LOT Polish Airlines reach New York and Chicago.
How long can Lithuanian citizens stay in the United States on ESTA?
Up to 90 days per visit. Extensions are not available under VWP status.
Can Lithuanian citizens work in the United States on ESTA?
No. ESTA covers tourism, transit, and business meetings. Paid work requires a separate US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. An approved ESTA allows boarding; a US CBP officer makes the final entry decision.
What happens if a Lithuanian citizen overstays 90 days in the US?
Overstaying is a serious violation leading to deportation, VWP ineligibility, and difficulties obtaining future US visas.
Is ESTA valid for visiting family in the United States?
Yes. Visiting family or friends is a permitted reason for travel under ESTA. However, the 90-day limit still applies regardless of the reason for your visit.