Vilnius is the largest city and the capital of Lithuania. Vilnius is the major economic centre of Lithuania and one of the largest financial centres of the Baltic states. Even though it is home to only 15% of Lithuania's population, it generates approximately 25% of Lithuania's GDP.

Lithuania is in Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Latvia and Russia. The climate is transitional, between maritime and continental with wet, moderate winters and summers.

The official language is Lithuanian. It is the most predominant, while Russian and Polish are also widely used. English is spoken by many of the educated younger generation, but this is less common among older Lithuanians. Visitors should be sensitive about using Russian and German, which can offend people who resent Soviet rule or a German invasion during the Second World War; rather use English first. The main religion is Christianity.

The economy of Lithuania changed radically after the country established its independence from the Soviet Union in 1990. It then made a transition towards capitalist free market principles, enjoying high growth rates after entering the European Union along with other Baltic states.

Lithuanians are open and hospitable. Business dealings and dress tend to be formal.

The security risk for expatriates in Lithuania is low. Risks include petty crime and vehicle theft.

The currency of Lithuania is the Euro (EUR). Major credit cards are accepted and there are plenty of ATMs.

Medical facilities are good, however the cost of treatment for expatriates from outside the EU can be high.

The population of Vilnius is 542,000 (2016 est.), while the inflation rate is 3.9% (July 2017).

The cost of living for expatriates / professional migrants in Vilnius as at 1 July 2017 is low in comparison to other places in the world.

Vilnius is ranked as a high degree of hardship location.