Lithuania introduces a fuel limit at the border. Drivers may be turned back

Since 3 May 2026, a new fuel import limit has applied at Lithuania’s external borders: a maximum of 200 litres in the vehicle’s standard tanks. Any amount above this limit may not be brought into the territory of the European Union, even after customs duties and taxes have been paid.

The new rules have real consequences at the border. If the limit is exceeded, Lithuanian customs authorities may detain the vehicle or turn it back before it enters the EU. The regulation is expected to remain in force at least until the end of 2027. The change is part of Lithuania’s tighter policy on fuel imports from the eastern direction. Until now, carriers were only required to declare electronically in advance the amount of fuel in the vehicle’s tanks. Now, the key issue is no longer reporting, but a physical restriction: crossing the border depends on meeting the 200-litre limit.

The regulations are part of a broader package of European Union economic sanctions against Russia and Belarus. They cover fuel contained in standard tanks installed by the vehicle manufacturer in accordance with the technical documentation, used to power the drivetrain and auxiliary equipment. Lithuanian customs authorities recommend that transport companies check the amount of fuel in their tanks before reaching the border. In practice, this means that refuelling plans on east-to-EU routes must be adjusted to avoid delays, turnbacks and additional operating costs.