Another Lithuanian language course organized by the International Organization for Migration (IOM Lithuania) has successfully concluded. Over the past two years, 451 Ukrainians have participated in free Lithuanian language classes.

"Ukrainians have been living in Lithuania for three years now, so it is understandable that, to settle down and secure better-paid jobs, war refugees from Ukraine need to focus more on learning the language. This is especially important as, starting in 2026, Ukrainians working in the service sector will be required to speak Lithuanian. We receive a high volume of inquiries and are pleased that each time, many individuals express an eagerness to learn," said Jurga Mickienė, IOM Lithuania’s Migrant Assistance and Crisis Management Project Specialist. In the most recent group, over 70% of participants were at an advanced level, while approximately 27% were beginners.

Research conducted by IOM Lithuania highlights that the primary needs of Ukrainians include financial security (62%), Lithuanian language courses (43%), and employment (36%). Notably, the demand for language courses has risen significantly, from 8% to 43%. Currently, about 12% of Ukrainians report having strong Lithuanian language skills, while 47% acknowledge a lack of proficiency.

To date, more than 90,000 Ukrainians have arrived in Lithuania. Since the beginning of the war, IOM Lithuania has been actively supporting war refugees. Over the past year alone, the organization has assisted more than 19,000 individuals through various support measures.

Lithuanian language courses are funded by State Secretariat for Migration on SEM.