The Constitution of Lithuania provides for religious freedom. In 1995 a Law on Religious Communities was passed. According to Article 5, nine religious communities recognized as a part of Lithuania’s historical, spiritual and social heritage have been declared "traditional" religions. These religious communities - Latin Rite Catholics, Greek Rite Catholics, Evangelical Lutherans, Evangelical Reformers, Orthodox, Old Believers, Jews, Sunni Muslims, and Karaites - are eligible for government assistance. The Hasidic Chabad Lubavich community has been seeking unsuccessfully to be recognized as a traditional religion. Traditional religions do not need to register with the government. Non-traditional religious groups are required to register. This has resulted in a four-tiered system consisting of traditional religions, State-recognized religions, registered groups and non-registered groups. Registered groups do not receive government benefits but have legal status to rent property, maintain bank accounts, etc. Non-registered groups have no legal status.
In 2000, following concern raised about the growth of "sects," the government established a commission to ascertain whether new religious movements were acting in accordance with the law. The commission consists of representatives from the Ministries of Justice, Interior, Education, Health, and Foreign Affairs, the General Prosecutor's office, and the State Security Department. the minister of Justice appoints a chairperson and the commission is charged with coordinating the activities of the various agencies with regard to religious groups.
2003 U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom Report on Lithuania
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