Lithuania extends nationwide lockdown until 30 June

Nightclubs can reopen, while cafes and bars can stay open until midnight

The Lithuanian government today extended the nationwide lockdown, which expires on 31 May, for another month - until 30 June, easing some restrictions along the way, LRT reports. According to the new rules, which will take effect on 1 June, nightclubs can reopen for the first time since November 2020, while cafes and bars can serve customers until midnight.

“Opportunity passport”

Currently, restaurants, bars and cafes are required to close at 10 pm. Nightclubs, which have remained shut since last November’s imposition of the second nationwide lockdown, can now operate from 7 am until midnight. However, they will be allowed to admit only customers holding an ‘opportunity passport’, Lithuania's national immunity certificate.

People can qualify for the pass by presenting proof of recovery from Covid-19, vaccination or a negative PCR or antigen test result. Local citizens covered by compulsory health insurance (PSD) and foreigners residing permanently in Lithuania who have been issued a personal identification code by the Migration Department can use the passport which is linked with the electronic healthcare registry E.sveikata.

Public events

Restrictions on public events will be further relaxed. Open-air events can be attended by an unlimited number of people, while indoor events will be capped at 250 people. Up to 2,000 people can attend if all of them are opportunity passport holders.

Changes to rules on facemasks and gatherings

The government has modified facemask-wearing rules. From 1 June, masks will not be mandatory for children in summer camps. In open spaces, a facemask will not be required, as long as there are no other people in close proximity, save for members of the same household.

People will also be allowed to congregate in bigger groups. Up to ten persons (or more, if they belong to two families) can meet indoors while an unlimited number of people can get together in outdoor spaces.

Up to 50 people will be able to attend indoor funeral ceremonies. When only persons with an "opportunity passport" are present, the number of mourners will not be limited.

In the enclosed spaces of cultural institutions, 10 square metres per person must be provided (except when only persons holding an “opportunity passport” visit). In outdoor areas, there will be no restrictions on space per person and number of visitors.