⚠️ This guide was researched and updated in May 2026. Laws and regulations change frequently. For specific legal advice regarding your jurisdiction, please consult with local legal counsel.

Lithuania Will & Estate Planning Guide

Read about will creation and estate planning in Lithuania. This guide covers witness rules, probate processes and jurisdiction-specific considerations that may apply. Rules vary, so consult a qualified professional for advice on your circumstances.

Estate Planning in Lithuania at a Glance

Lithuania follows civil law system with EU harmonisation and Baltic legal traditions. Moderate inheritance tax with family-friendly thresholds. Forced heirship protects spouse and descendants. Strong notarial system manages inheritance procedures.

Civil law with Baltic traditions
Moderate inheritance tax 5-15%
Forced heirship for spouse/descendants
Family-friendly tax thresholds
Strong notarial system
Certificate of inheritance required
EU succession regulation applies

Will Requirements in Lithuania

Creating a will in Lithuania typically involves national rules and any local variations. Witness requirements, signing procedures and other formalities can vary by jurisdiction, so consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your circumstances.

Witness Requirements: Notarial will: notary public plus 2 witnesses. Handwritten: none but must be entirely handwritten

Holographic Wills:Handwritten wills may be recognised

Inheritance Tax in Lithuania

Tax Rate: 5-10%

Tax Threshold: 3,240 USD

Complete exemption for close family

Family Shares and Estate Administration in Lithuania

Protected family shares: Surviving spouse and descendants have reserved shares (legitimate portion) of 1/2 of estate. If no descendants, spouse gets 1/2 and parents get 1/4. Legitimate heirs cannot be fully disinherited except for specific legal causes.

Administering the estate: Notaries issue certificates of inheritance rights. Process typically takes 3-6 months. EU succession certificate available for cross-border estates. Property registration with Centre of Registers required. Court involvement rare.

Related Resources

What Happens Without a Will?

Read about intestacy rules and how an estate may be distributed if you die without a will.

Global Inheritance Tax Guide

Compare inheritance tax rates, thresholds and exemptions across countries.

Digital & Physical Will Signatures

How signing rules differ across jurisdictions and where digital signatures may be accepted.

Estate Planning Information for Lithuania

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