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Visa-Free Countries
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How to Immigrate to Luxembourg in 2025
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Luxembourg stands out as an appealing destination for immigrants due to its exceptional quality of life, economic stability, and strategic location at the heart of Europe. Known for its high-income levels and efficient public services, the country offers a secure and prosperous environment for families and professionals alike. Its multilingual society—where Luxembourgish, French, and German are official languages—reflects an inclusive and international outlook. As a founding member of the European Union, Luxembourg also provides seamless access to the broader EU market, making it especially attractive for skilled workers, investors, and entrepreneurs.
- Main Industries
- Banking and Financial Services
- Steel and Metal Production
- Information and Communication Technology
- Logistics and Transportation
- Satellite and Space Technologies
- Insurance and Reinsurance Services
UTC+1
2,586 km2
Euro
Luxembourg City
Luxembourgish (official)
French (official), German (official)
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Latest updates
- As of 2025, Luxembourg continues to refine its immigration policies to address labor shortages and attract global talent. Recent trends show a growing demand for skilled professionals in sectors like finance, information technology, and healthcare. The government has streamlined procedures for high-demand occupations and improved digital access to visa and residence permit applications. Additionally, Luxembourg has expanded support for family reunification and post-study work options, while also considering new pathways such as a digital nomad visa to draw remote professionals. These developments reflect the country’s commitment to maintaining an open yet structured immigration system.
Immigration for Work
Immigration for Work
Luxembourg’s dynamic economy and international workforce make it a magnet for professionals seeking career growth within the European Union. The country actively welcomes qualified individuals who can contribute to its key industries and address talent shortages.
a. Skilled Workers
Professionals with specialized skills and experience can apply for residence under Luxembourg’s employment-based immigration channels. This pathway primarily targets third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA citizens) who have secured a job offer from a Luxembourg-based employer.
- Who is it for: Highly qualified individuals in sectors such as finance, IT, healthcare, and engineering.
- Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must present a valid employment contract, meet minimum salary thresholds (typically 1.5 times the average gross salary), and hold recognized academic or professional qualifications.
- EU Blue Card: Eligible candidates with higher education and a high-paying job may qualify for the EU Blue Card, which offers faster access to long-term residency and mobility within the EU.
- Fees: Administrative fees generally range from €80 to €100, excluding translation and legalization costs.
- Processing Time: Most applications are processed within 2 to 3 months, depending on completeness and case complexity.
- Language Proficiency: While not mandatory for approval, knowledge of French, German, or Luxembourgish is beneficial and often expected in the workplace.
b. Shortage Occupations
Luxembourg actively addresses sector-specific labor gaps by facilitating immigration for professionals in high-demand fields. This category is tailored to third-country nationals whose skills match occupations experiencing workforce shortages.
- Who is it for? Qualified individuals with experience in critical sectors such as information and communication technology (ICT), healthcare (especially nursing and elderly care), construction, and financial services.
- In-Demand Sectors: The government updates shortage occupation lists regularly, with current demand concentrated in IT development, medical support roles, and financial compliance.
- Streamlined Procedures: Applicants in these categories often benefit from simplified application processes, including priority processing and relaxed requirements regarding labor market tests.
- Requirements: A valid job offer, relevant qualifications or work experience, and proof of salary meeting sector-specific thresholds are necessary. Recognition of foreign credentials may be required in regulated professions.
- Language Proficiency: While not always mandatory, proficiency in French, German, or Luxembourgish significantly improves employability and integration, particularly in healthcare and public-facing roles.
- Fees: Application fees typically range between €80 and €100, with possible additional costs for document translation or recognition.
- Processing Duration: Most shortage occupation permits are processed within 1.5 to 2 months, subject to documentation completeness.
c. Intra-Company Transfers
Luxembourg offers a dedicated pathway for employees of multinational companies who are being relocated to their organization’s branch within the country. This route supports international mobility while ensuring regulatory compliance.
- Who is it for? Third-country nationals employed by a company outside the EU who are transferred to Luxembourg as managers, specialists, or trainees.
- Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must have been employed by the company for at least 3 to 12 months (depending on the role), and must be assigned to a Luxembourg entity in a similar capacity. Managers and specialists must demonstrate relevant qualifications or experience, while trainees should be university graduates undergoing professional development.
- Requirements: A valid transfer contract outlining the role, duration (typically up to 3 years), and remuneration. The employer must prove the relationship between the foreign and host company.
- Language Proficiency: There are no formal language requirements for the permit, though knowledge of one of the national languages (French, German, Luxembourgish) is advantageous for daily life and workplace integration.
- Fees: Administrative fees usually fall within the €80–€100 range, excluding ancillary costs.
- Processing Duration: Most applications are processed within 2 to 3 months, assuming documents are complete and meet the criteria.
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Family Reunification
- Luxembourg recognizes the importance of keeping families together and provides a legal framework for foreign residents to be joined by close family members. This process is open to legally residing third-country nationals who wish to reunite with their immediate family.
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Who is eligible:
Spouses, minor children (under 18), and in some cases, dependent parents may apply for reunification. -
Sponsor Requirements:
The sponsor must hold valid residency in Luxembourg and demonstrate stable income, suitable housing, and health insurance to support the family member(s). -
Fees:
Standard administrative fees range between €80 and €100 per application, not including translation or legalization costs. -
Process Duration:
Applications are typically processed within 3 to 4 months. Delays may occur if additional documents or verifications are needed. - 2025 Updates: In 2025, Luxembourg has further digitalized the application system, allowing online submissions and document tracking, which has improved transparency and processing speed in many cases.
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Study and Research
- Luxembourg offers an attractive environment for international students and researchers, with multilingual universities and strong academic ties across Europe. The country facilitates entry for third-country nationals pursuing higher education or research.
- Student Visa: Applicants must be accepted into a recognized institution, prove sufficient financial means to support themselves, and provide proof of accommodation.
- Requirements: Valid passport, proof of enrollment, health insurance, financial resources (approx. €1,000/month), and a clean criminal record.
- Language Proficiencies: Courses are offered in English, French, or German depending on the program. Language proof may be needed during admission.
- Fees: Visa application fees typically range from €50 to €100, with possible additional university fees depending on the course.
- Rights: Students are allowed to work up to 15 hours per week. After graduation, they can apply for a residence permit to seek employment or start a business.
- Research Permits: Available for academic researchers and PhD candidates with a hosting agreement from a Luxembourg research institution. These permits often include family reunification and work rights.
Long-Term Residency & Naturalization
discripLuxembourg offers a clear pathway from temporary residence to long-term settlement and citizenship for eligible foreign nationals. The system rewards legal residence, integration efforts, and societal participation.
Long-Term EU Residency:
Non-EU nationals can apply after five years of uninterrupted legal residence, provided they meet requirements related to income, accommodation, and integration.
Naturalization Eligibility:
Foreign nationals may apply for Luxembourgish citizenship after five years of legal stay, passing an integration course, and a language proficiency exam in Luxembourgish.
Requirements:
Applicants must demonstrate social integration, financial stability, and clean legal records. Completion of a civic instruction course is also mandatory.
Fees:
Administrative costs are relatively low, usually under €100, though language preparation and documentation expenses may add to the total.
Process Duration:
The procedure typically takes between 6 and 12 months, depending on the complexity and completeness of the application.
2025 Updates:
Recent changes have introduced a more flexible structure for the language exam, with expanded access to preparation resources. Additionally, some categories (e.g. youth educated in Luxembourg) benefit from simplified naturalization procedures.
Asylum and International Protection
Asylum and International Protection
Luxembourg remains committed to upholding international obligations by offering protection to individuals fleeing conflict, persecution, or serious harm in their home countries.
Types of Protection
Applicants may be granted:
- Asylum if they face persecution based on race, religion, nationality, or political opinion.
- Subsidiary protection for those at risk of serious harm (e.g., torture, armed conflict).
- Temporary protection, recently extended through 2025 for Ukrainian nationals and certain other displaced groups.
Right to Apply
Anyone present in Luxembourg may request asylum under the Geneva Convention or seek subsidiary or temporary protection, depending on the circumstances.
2025 Update
Luxembourg has extended temporary protection measures for Ukrainian refugees, ensuring continued access to housing, education, and healthcare.
Fees
There are no application fees for international protection.
Process Duration
Processing times vary, but initial decisions are typically issued within six months. Appeals and further assessments may extend the timeline.
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Special Categories & New 2025 Measures
- Luxembourg continues to modernize its migration policies to stay competitive in the global talent market. Several tailored initiatives in 2025 aim to attract skilled individuals, especially in emerging sectors.
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Digital Nomad Visa:
While not officially launched yet, discussions are ongoing around a potential digital nomad visa to welcome remote professionals from third countries. If introduced, it would provide residence rights without the need for a local employment contract. -
Policy Updates in 2025:
This year saw revisions to salary thresholds for work permits, particularly for high-demand sectors. Application processes have also been partially digitalized, reducing average processing times. -
Sector-Specific Incentives:
To support its sustainability goals and digital transformation, Luxembourg is prioritizing immigration pathways for professionals in green technology, cybersecurity, and advanced research, offering fast-tracked permits and simplified procedures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Luxembourg’s immigration policies in 2025 continue to evolve, offering diverse pathways for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and refugees. With updates designed to attract talent, particularly in the green and tech sectors, the country remains an appealing destination for those seeking opportunities within the EU. Whether through work, investment, or protection, Luxembourg’s strategic focus on innovation and inclusivity ensures it remains a competitive hub for international talent. As policies adapt to global trends, Luxembourg’s commitment to offering a high standard of living, economic stability, and a welcoming environment positions it as a prime choice for immigrants in 2025 and beyond.
FAQ about Luxembourg Citizenship
1. What are the main immigration options for non-EU nationals wishing to move to Luxembourg?
Non-EU nationals can immigrate to Luxembourg through various pathways, including work permits (for skilled workers or shortage occupations), the Start-Up Visa, family reunification, and student visas. Additionally, there are options for long-term residency and naturalization.
2. How long does it take to process a work visa for Luxembourg?
Processing times for work visas in Luxembourg typically range from 1 to 3 months, depending on the specific type of visa and the completeness of the application. Some fast-track options may be available, particularly for high-demand sectors.
3. Can I bring my family with me if I immigrate to Luxembourg?
Yes, family reunification is possible for spouses, dependent children, and parents, provided the sponsor meets the residency, income, and housing requirements. The application process generally takes a few months.
4. What is the pathway to citizenship in Luxembourg?
Luxembourg offers a pathway to citizenship after 5 years of legal residence. Applicants must demonstrate integration into Luxembourgish society, which includes passing a language test. Those who are married to a Luxembourg citizen may apply for naturalization after 3 years of marriage.
5. What is the Digital Nomad Visa in Luxembourg?
Luxembourg has yet to introduce a formal Digital Nomad Visa as of 2025, but there are ongoing discussions about creating policies to attract remote workers, particularly in tech and green sectors. If introduced, it would likely offer streamlined residency for foreign workers who can meet specific income thresholds.
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