Lithuania Moves to Restrict Property Purchases by Russian and Belarusian Citizens Near Strategic Facilities

The Lithuanian government has approved a draft law that would prohibit Russian and Belarusian citizens from purchasing real estate near strategically important facilities. The proposed restrictions would also apply to individuals holding valid temporary or permanent residence permits in Lithuania.

The initiative aims to strengthen national security and reduce the risk of property being used for intelligence activities. Lithuanian authorities consider real estate ownership near military installations and critical infrastructure a potential security threat, particularly due to the possibility of monitoring military exercises, tracking troop movements, and conducting hybrid operations.

The proposed legislation would restrict property purchases in designated areas while allowing exceptions for properties acquired through inheritance. Holding a Lithuanian residence permit would not exempt Russian or Belarusian citizens from the new restrictions.

According to Lithuania’s Central Register, as of May 2026, a total of 5,104 Russian citizens and 2,781 Belarusian citizens holding temporary or permanent residence permits owned property in the country. Some of these properties are located near strategically important infrastructure.

Lithuania’s initiative reflects a broader trend toward strengthening national security measures across the Baltic region. Similar restrictions have already been introduced in Latvia and Finland, where authorities have also limited property purchases by citizens of countries considered potential national security threats.

The draft law must still be approved by Lithuania’s parliament, the Seimas. If adopted, the new restrictions are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027.