How much is a rental deposit in Lithuania?

Usually one month's rent. Lithuanian law caps the deposit at one month's rent, although in practice some landlords ask for two.

Is the deposit refundable?

Yes. It is returned at the end of the tenancy if you have paid all rent and bills and there is no damage beyond normal wear and tear.

Can a landlord legally ask for two or three months' deposit?

A contract clause demanding more than one month's deposit is void under the Civil Code, even though the rest of the contract stays valid. In practice many still ask for more — see the guide.

Do I pay the deposit before or after seeing the flat?

Always after. Never transfer money before you have viewed the actual flat and have a written contract.

What is a deposit for, exactly?

It covers unpaid rent, unpaid utility bills, and repair of damage you caused. It is not a free extra month of rent for the landlord.

Rental deposits in Lithuania: how much and getting it back

A rental deposit in Lithuania is normally one month's rent, paid alongside your first month when you sign. Lithuanian law caps it at one month, though some landlords still ask for two — so it's worth knowing your rights before you hand anything over.

How much you'll actually pay

When you move in, expect to pay up front:

First month's rent
A deposit — usually equal to one month's rent

So your first payment is often two months' rent in total. On a flat at €350–€700unverified a month in total living costs, the rent portion is a big chunk of that, so plan for the double payment before you arrive.

Some landlords or agencies advertise a "two-month deposit". Under the Civil Code (Article 6.583), any contract clause demanding more than one month's rent as a deposit is void — the rest of the contract still stands, but that clause is not legally enforceable. In reality, in a competitive market like Vilnius or Kaunas you may be asked for more anyway, and pushing back can cost you the flat. Decide what you're willing to accept, and at minimum get every euro you pay written into the contract.

EU, non-EU or Erasmus — same rules

The deposit rules are the same whoever you are. The difference is timing: Erasmus and exchange students often rent for a single semester, so make sure the contract length matches your stay and that the deposit is returned when you leave, not at some fixed annual date.

Get it in writing

A deposit is only as safe as your paperwork. Before you pay:

View the actual flat in person (or via a live video call) — never pay on photos alone.
Sign a written contract. It should name the address, the rent, what the deposit is, who pays utilities, and the notice period.
Photograph everything on move-in day — walls, floors, appliances, any existing scratches or stains — and keep the photos dated.
List the contents (furniture, white goods) in or attached to the contract.

The contract should be clear about the deposit: the exact amount, what it covers, and when it's returned.

Getting your deposit back

The deposit is refunded at the end of the tenancy if:

All rent is paid
All utility bills are settled (these can lag a month, so factor that in)
The flat is returned in the same condition, minus normal wear and tear

A landlord can lawfully deduct for unpaid rent, unpaid bills, or damage you caused — but not for ordinary ageing like faded paint or minor scuffs.

Situation	Can the landlord keep the deposit?
You move out, all paid, no damage	No — full refund
You left an unpaid electricity bill	They can deduct that amount
Genuine damage (broken appliance, stained carpet)	They can deduct repair cost
Normal wear and tear (faded walls, worn floor)	No
You leave with less than the agreed notice	They may deduct the rent you owe

Give proper notice

Tenants can usually end a tenancy with one month's notice in writing, whatever the contract length. Tell the landlord in writing (email or text is fine) so there's a record, and agree a date to hand over the keys and inspect the flat together.

If the landlord won't refund

Some landlords delay or refuse, betting that students won't chase small sums — especially if you've already left the country. Protect yourself:

Do the final inspection together and take dated move-out photos.
Ask for the refund date and method in writing before you leave.
Keep your contract, payment records and photos for at least a year.

For unresolved disputes, you can take the matter to a Lithuanian court (small claims are possible), though for a one-month deposit that's often more hassle than it's worth — which is exactly why good documentation up front is your best protection.

Many landlords are wary of letting tenants declare their address (deklaruoti gyvenamąją vietą) at the flat — but you'll likely need that declaration for your residence permit and other paperwork. Confirm before signing that the landlord will allow it, and get that agreement in writing.

Where to find listings

The main rental sites are Aruodas, Domoplius, Skelbiu and Rebaltic. University international offices and student Facebook groups also share trusted listings — a good way to avoid scams. Never pay a deposit or "reservation fee" to someone you've only met online before seeing the flat and signing a contract.