A Lithuanian member of parliament, D. Asanavičiūtės-Gružauskienė, recently addressed a press conference emphasizing the need for more supportive social guarantees for Lithuanians returning from abroad. She argued that offering a six-month 'social cushion' in the form of unemployment benefits could encourage more citizens to return home. According to 2025 statistics, while 18,000 Lithuanians are set to return, only 5,000 might need unemployment assistance to successfully reintegrate and contribute positively to the economy. Asanavičiūtės-Gružauskienė believes this project could be beneficial, as not all returnees will require these benefits, but for those who do, it can provide essential support during their transition.

The parliamentarian also raised concerns about a decree from the Minister of Social Security and Labor, which alters the way unemployment benefits are calculated for returning citizens. Currently, if a person has worked abroad for more than 30 months, their work history does not count towards the qualification for unemployment benefits in Lithuania. This change is viewed as a potential barrier to many returning citizens, who may struggle to claim benefits that could assist in their relocation and adaptation efforts.

With increasing numbers of Lithuanians considering returning home following their overseas work, the discussion around unemployment benefits is becoming increasingly relevant. Proposals like Asanavičiūtės-Gružauskienė's highlight the government's need to facilitate smoother transitions for these individuals into the Lithuanian job market, ultimately aiming to boost birth rates and economic growth by making the country a more attractive place for its emigrants.