Practical guide to obtain a work permit in Luxembourg

Luxembourg attracts thousands of foreign workers every year thanks to its dynamic job market and attractive salaries. But before settling down and getting a job, one essential step is essential: getting a work permit In Luxembourg.

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• What are the steps to follow?
• What are the requirements for obtaining a work permit?
• Is everyone who wants to immigrate eligible?
• Is there a specific law for residing in Luxembourg?
• What documents should I provide?

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This guide explains everything you need to know to work legally in the Grand Duchy, and to ensure that you get your Luxembourg permit. With this guide, you will be authorized to work in Luxembourg in 100% of cases.

The conditions for working in Luxembourg

Working in Luxembourg requires meeting certain legal conditions, whether it is a work permit for a third national or administrative procedures for a European employee. As a general rule, the worker must have a valid employment contract with a Luxembourg employer, and the professional situation must correspond to the needs of the employment market.

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It is necessary that the hiring of an employee from abroad be justified by employers, in particular for specific profiles or jobs in shortage. Once the contract is signed, the candidate can begin the process of obtaining an employment contract, which involves the presentation of certain documents such as identity documents, proof of qualification and, sometimes, proof of experience.

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These steps may vary depending on the nature of the work or the duration of the employment, so be sure to find out about the specific requirements before starting the procedure.

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In 2022, more than 15,000 new work permits have been issued to nationals from third countries. In 2023, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, nearly 200,000 cross-border workers coming from France, Belgium and Germany occupied a Job in Luxembourg, representing nearly 45% of the country's total workforce.

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Specific conditions vary according to the type of employment (managers, qualified workers, seasonal workers, etc.), but one thing is certain: the Grand Duchy remains a popular destination for employment in Europe.

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The different work permits in Luxembourg

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Permits for EU nationals

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If you are a citizen of a member country of the European Union, the EEA or Switzerland, you do not need a work permit. You can be hired freely and start working without specific procedures.

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However, if you decide to stay longer than Three months, registration with the municipality of residence is mandatory. This process allows you to obtain a registration certificate, proving your legal status as a worker in Luxembourg.

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Permits for third nationals

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If you come from a country outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland, a specific authorization is required to immigrate and work legally. The process consists of several steps:

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• Get a job offer validated by a Luxembourg employer
• Deposit a enforcement residence permit for paid work at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Apply for a visa of entry, according to your nationality
• Register with the municipality and finalize the procedures to obtain a residence permit

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Highly qualified workers can benefit from the European Blue Card, which simplifies access to the labour market in Luxembourg.

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Differences between temporary and permanent permits

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Depending on your situation, you can get a temporary permit or aim for a more stable status in the long term:

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• Temporary permit : granted for a period of one year (renewable), it is linked to a specific employer and does not allow you to change positions
• Permanent permit : if the international national resides for 5 years uninterrupted, he can apply for a long-term residence permit, offering them more flexibility on the labor market

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Good to know: an employer must justify that the position cannot be filled by a European worker before hiring a candidate from outside the EU.

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Administrative procedures for obtaining a work permit

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The required documents

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To submit a request for work permit, several supporting documents are required. The list may vary depending on the type of authorization requested, but here are the main documents that are generally required:

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• A signed employment contract with a Luxembourg employer
• Proof of accommodation in Luxembourg (rental lease, accommodation certificate, your postal address, etc.)
• A valid passport copy (no need for the original)
• An extract from a criminal record from your country of origin and/or Luxembourg
• A medical certificate (document attesting to your ability to work)
• Proof of professional qualifications, especially for regulated professions

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The documents must be provided in PDF format.

The main steps

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The process of obtaining a work permit varies according to your status. Here is the route to follow:

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1. Submission of the application :

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• For EU nationals: no need for a permit, but mandatory declaration to the municipality after 3 months of stay.
• For international nationals: application for a residence permit before entering Luxembourg (to be submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs).

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2. Processing time :

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• On average, you have to wait for a period of 3 to 6 months for a work permit for third-country nationals.
• The European Blue Card can be processed more quickly if all the conditions are met.

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3. Receiving the permit :

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• After approval, an entry visa may be required.
• Once arrived, registration with the municipality is mandatory.

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Administrative costs

Administrative fees depend on the type of work permit and the ancillary services required:

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Some employers take care of part of administrative costs, especially for qualified profiles.

Common mistakes to avoid

Hold a license of Work in Luxembourg is a rigorous administrative process. A simple mistake can delay your request or even result in a refusal. Here are the top three mistakes to avoid to maximize your chances of getting your work permit as soon as possible.

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An incomplete file

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One of the most common causes of rejection is the forgetting of essential documents, or the format (PDF recommended). An incomplete file automatically leads to delays, as the administration asks for additional documents.

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To be checked before sending your file:

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• Your employment contract provided that it is well signed and complies with Luxembourg requirements
• All your official documents (passport, criminal record certificate, proof of address) are up to date and in PDF format
• Professional diplomas and certificates are translated and legalized if necessary
• You have successfully completed all the forms requested, without errors or omissions

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If your file is well prepared and everything is available, the relative processing time will be shorter.

Poor expectations of deadlines

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The administrative process may take longer than expected, especially for third nationals. The most frequent mistakes at this level are: thinking that the work permit will be issued in a few weeks, do not take into account the deadlines for obtaining a visa or an appointment at the town hall, or even waiting too long before starting the procedures, at the risk of seeing your job offer expire.

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So it will be necessary anticipate! For a non-EU national, the complete procedure (from filing to obtaining the permit) may take 3 to 6 months. Regularly check the status of your file with the competent authorities.

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Ignorance of legal obligations

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Many applicants are unaware of certain legal obligations, which can be costly once there. Indeed, here is what a person should not have in mind:

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• Think that any residence permit allows you to work (this is not always the case!)
• Not respecting the conditions of work authorization specific to your sector of activity
• Omit mandatory registration with the municipality after arrival
• Accept a position without checking if the employer has taken the necessary steps.

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A work permit is usually linked to a specific employer. If you want to change jobs, you will need to apply again.

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Conclusion: be thorough and well-informed. Avoiding these mistakes will allow you to accelerate your professional integration in Luxembourg and avoid unnecessary complications. Pay close attention to these conditions, for your safety!

Practical advice to facilitate your procedures

Obtaining a work permit in Luxembourg may seem complex, but with the right resources and the right support, the process becomes smoother. Here are some tips to help you successfully complete your request and avoid administrative pitfalls.

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Where to get help

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Navigating red tape can be a challenge, especially for third nationals. Fortunately, there are several actors that can guide you in the right direction throughout the process:

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Associations that help migrant workers

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Some organizations offer free or low-cost support to help you understand your rights, gather the necessary documents and complete your application.

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• ASTI (Association to Support Immigrant Workers) : advice and assistance for newcomers.
• Immigration House : information and support to settle in Luxembourg.

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Lawyers specialized in employment and immigration law

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If your situation is complex (e.g.: refusal of work permit, change of employer, request for an extended stay), consulting a specialized lawyer may be wise. Some offer a free initial interview.

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Your employer

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Luxembourg companies are often used to these procedures and can help you get your work permit more quickly. Some large companies have a team and even offer an internal service dedicated to expatriates, just to head in the right direction.

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Online resources to simplify the process

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The Internet is full of useful resources to help you get your work permit. Here are the essential platforms:

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• Guichet.lu - the official website of the Luxembourg government which details all the administrative procedures
• HOURS - the European portal for professional mobility, which offers information on employment and work permit In Luxembourg
• Chamber of Commerce and Chamber of Crafts - Information for entrepreneurs and self-employed workers who want to obtain a license to carry out their activity
• All Eyes On Me - In addition to helping you find a job, our team and platform supports you in all your immigration and immigration procedureswork authorization via our partners. Discover all our offers hither.

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Frequently asked questions

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Who can work in Luxembourg without a work permit?

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Nationals of the European Union, the European Economic Area and Switzerland do not need work permit to carry out an activity in Luxembourg. However, a declaration of arrival at the municipality of residence is mandatory.

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What is the duration of the work permit?

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The duration varies according to the type of permit: an ephemeral permit is generally valid for one year, renewable, and limited to one position and one sector of activity. After several renewals, it is possible to request a residence permit long lasting.

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How to apply for the renewal of a work permit in Luxembourg?

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Renewal must be requested at least two months prior to the expiry of the current permit. A new employment contract, proof of residence and proof of the continuity of professional activity must be provided.

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To conclude, obtaining a work permit in Luxembourg may seem complex, but by following the appropriate procedures and carefully preparing your file, you will have no validity problems and will obtain authorization quickly.

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Whether you are a national of the EU or a third country, it is essential to fully understand the specific conditions, the documents required and the processing times to avoid any complications. By getting information from the competent authorities and complying with entry conditions and administrative procedures, you will be able to exercise your professional activity legally in Luxembourg (a system that is very popular with foreign workers) and take advantage of the numerous “work opportunities” offered by this dynamic country.

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