Rights at work
Rights at work

Understanding your rights as an employee in Lithuania helps you feel confident and secure in your new workplace. Here’s what you can expect, based on Lithuanian labour law and guidance from the State Labour Inspectorate (VDI). 

In Lithuania, a standard working week is 40 hours, usually spread across five days. While overtime does happen, the law ensures it’s limited to protect employees: 

  • Your total working time, including overtime, cannot exceed 48 hours per week. 

  • In a single day, you shouldn’t work more than 12 hours (excluding breaks). 

  • Overtime is capped at 8 hours per week, or up to 12 hours with your consent. 

  • Annual overtime is limited to around 180 hours. 

  • Employers must also keep proper records of working time. 

These rules are designed to support a healthy balance between work and life.

Every full-time employee has the right to at least 20 paid vacation days per year (for a standard five-day workweek). If you work six days a week, your entitlement increases to 24 days. 

On top of that, Lithuania celebrates 14 public holidays each year, giving you extra time to recharge, travel, or spend with family. There are also additional types of leave covered by labour law — for example, parental leave and sick leave. 

When you start a job in Lithuania, your employer must provide a written employment contract. This can be in Lithuanian or bilingual if you both agree. Contracts typically include a probation period, but this cannot exceed three months. 

As an employee, you are protected by strong labour laws:  

  • Equal opportunities and non-discrimination in the workplace. 

  • The right to safe and healthy working conditions. 

  • The freedom to join trade unions. 

Your employer also contributes to social security, which covers health insurance, pensions, and other benefits.

Every full-time employee has the right to at least 20 paid vacation days per year (for a standard five-day workweek). If you work six days a week, your entitlement increases to 24 days. 

On top of that, Lithuania celebrates 14 public holidays each year, giving you extra time to recharge, travel, or spend with family. There are also additional types of leave covered by labour law — for example, parental leave and sick leave. 

When you start a job in Lithuania, your employer must provide a written employment contract. This can be in Lithuanian or bilingual if you both agree. Contracts typically include a probation period, but this cannot exceed three months. 

As an employee, you are protected by strong labour laws:  

  • Equal opportunities and non-discrimination in the workplace. 

  • The right to safe and healthy working conditions. 

  • The freedom to join trade unions. 

Your employer also contributes to social security, which covers health insurance, pensions, and other benefits.

For detailed guidance or if you ever face issues at work, visit the State Labour Inspectorate (VDI). They provide resources in English and support for employees.