Pre-school and Kindergarten in Lithuania

What is a darželis?

In Lithuania, pre-school childcare and early education is provided through institutions called darželis (kindergarten) or lopšelis-darželis (nursery-kindergarten). These typically cater for children from around 1 year old up to school age (6–7 years). Many combine childcare with early education, and attendance in the pre-primary year (typically age 5–6) is compulsory for all children before they start school.

Pre-school education in Lithuania is broadly available to children of all nationalities, including children of migrants and refugees living in the country.

How to apply

Places in public kindergartens are managed by your municipality (savivaldybė). The general process is:

1. Register your family and child with the municipality if you have not already done so
2. Submit an application for a kindergarten place through the municipality's portal or office — most municipalities have an online queue system
3. Wait for a place to be allocated — demand can be high in cities, so it is worth applying as early as possible
4. Once offered a place, confirm acceptance and provide the required documents (typically your child's birth certificate and your proof of residence)

Contact your local municipality office or visit their website to find the specific application process for your area.

Eligibility for migrant families

Children of migrants are generally eligible for public pre-school in Lithuania on the same basis as Lithuanian children, provided the family is legally residing in the country. If your child has recently arrived and you are unsure about eligibility, your municipality's education department or a migrant support organisation can clarify your situation.

Costs and subsidies

Public kindergartens charge a monthly fee that covers meals and some materials. The fee is set by the municipality and varies by location and the child's age. Families with lower incomes may be entitled to a reduced fee or subsidy — ask your municipality whether you qualify. State support (vaiko pinigai / child benefit) may also be available to families with children; SODRA administers this and can provide current details.

Finding and choosing a kindergarten

Your municipality can tell you which public kindergartens are nearest to your address and have available places. Private kindergartens also exist and typically have shorter waiting times, but they charge higher fees. Some migrant and community organisations can help you navigate the process if you need support with language or paperwork.