Lithuania to require Lithuanian-language instruction in vocational training for foreigners
Starting in September, vocational training programmes for foreigners in Lithuania can no longer be taught solely in a foreign language, and must instead be conducted in Lithuanian or bilingually. The change is part of wider efforts to strengthen Lithuanian-language use and support the integration of foreign workers.
Lithuania's Education, Science and Sports Ministry has announced that from September, vocational training courses for foreigners will no longer be offered solely in a foreign language, but must instead be taught in Lithuanian or bilingually. Under the new regulations, bilingual instruction will continue until a student reaches the level of Lithuanian proficiency required for their chosen profession.
Deputy Education Minister Rolandas Zuoza said immigration trends and shifts in the labour market are increasing the need for newcomers to obtain professional qualifications in Lithuania. He noted that some vocational training providers, in adapting to foreign students' needs, had been organising courses entirely in a foreign language. According to Zuoza, giving foreigners better opportunities to study in Lithuanian will help them integrate more smoothly into both the labour market and society.
Education Minister Raminta Popovienė has approved regulations setting out how bilingual vocational training programmes should be organised. The changes stem from amendments to Lithuania's Vocational Education and Training Law, passed by parliament in March, which require vocational training in the country to be conducted in Lithuanian.
The requirement for Lithuanian or bilingual instruction will apply not only to foreigners pursuing their first professional qualification, but also to those enrolled in continuing vocational training aimed at upgrading an existing qualification or gaining an additional one.
The move is part of broader efforts to expand the use of the Lithuanian language among foreign workers and support their integration. Since January 2026, stricter Lithuanian-language rules have already applied to foreigners working in the service sector and in sales, requiring them to be able to serve customers in Lithuanian at least at a basic proficiency level.
