The National Defence Volunteer Forces (NDVF) are the first unit of the Lithuanian Armed Forces, established in 1991. Today, the NDVF is an integral part of the modern Lithuanian military, responsible for preparing for the territorial defence of the country and supporting national security during peacetime and crisis situations.
A volunteer soldier is a citizen who lives an ordinary civilian life but is always ready to serve in the national defence forces when needed. Volunteer military service is an excellent opportunity for citizens who care about the safety of their communities and loved ones to contribute to Lithuania’s defence.
Volunteer military service is open to citizens of the Republic of Lithuania aged 18 to 60. Volunteers must sign a contract for a period of up to 4 years, take an oath of allegiance to the Republic of Lithuania, and may extend the contract upon expiration.
After serving for ~ three years, a volunteer soldier is issued a certificate of completion of Permanent Compulsory Initial Military Service (PCIMS), formally recognizing their contribution to national defence.
Volunteer military service is typically performed on weekends, with volunteers serving an average of 20 to 50 days per year, depending on their availability and unit requirements. Training includes practical exercises, field operations, and national defence preparation.
Volunteer soldiers are entitled to:
Remuneration for service days, based either on the volunteer’s civilian salary or military rank
Social guarantees, including health and accident coverage applicable to soldiers
Provision of military clothing, equipment, accommodation, and meals during service
Coverage of all military service-related costs
After reaching the highest level of readiness, volunteer soldiers can:
Join professional military service in the Lithuanian Armed Forces
Participate in international operations and peacekeeping missions
Advance through military ranks, gaining leadership and tactical experience
Becoming a volunteer soldier is simple:
Be a citizen of Lithuania aged 18–65
Apply at a regional Military Commandants’ Command
Pass a medical and fitness assessment
Sign a volunteer military service contract and take the oath of allegiance
Volunteering in the NDVF allows citizens to actively contribute to national security, develop military skills, and serve their country while maintaining a civilian life.
Established: 1991
Part of: Lithuanian Armed Forces
Service type: Weekend-based volunteer service
Contract length: Up to 4 years, renewable
Age range: 18–65 years
Training: Territorial defence, field exercises, leadership skills
Benefits: Remuneration, social guarantees, equipment, accommodation, meals
Career path: Professional military service, international missions, rank advancement
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