Lithuania increases child benefits from June

Lithuania will raise certain child-related benefits starting in June, Social Security and Labour Minister Jūratė Zailskienė announced on Friday, as reported by the Baltic News Service (BNS).

The changes include a higher one-time birth grant and expanded eligibility for childcare allowances. Zailskienė described the increases as necessary to address demographic challenges, calling them a “priority” despite fiscal constraints.

From June, the one-time payment for newborns will rise from €814 to €1,036. Childcare benefits for parents without social insurance—such as students, residents, or vocational trainees—will increase to €444 per month until the child turns two. The minister clarified that the expanded support applies not only to children born after June 1 but also to those under two years old.

Additional changes will take effect in January 2027. Mothers will then qualify for four months of maternity benefits at 100% of their prior salary, regardless of when they begin leave. Currently, full pay is guaranteed for only two months before and after childbirth.

Zailskienė emphasised that the reforms aim to provide “solid ground” for working mothers, ensuring financial security during early parenthood.