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Work visa in Luxembourg
Whether you're a salaried worker, a highly qualified professional eyeing the EU Blue Card, or a researcher eager to contribute to Luxembourg's vibrant research community, this article will tell you how to get work visa in Luxembourg
Welcome to our comprehensive article guidelines on how to get a work visa in Luxembourg. As one of Europe's economic powerhouses, Luxembourg attracts individuals from around the globe seeking employment opportunities. This article will explore the essential aspects of obtaining a work visa in Luxembourg, looking at the general procedures and specific requirements for various visa categories.
We'll start by taking a look at the latest statistics on the influx of professionals to Luxembourg, then we’ll gain insights into the diverse types of visas available and unravel the step-by-step process to secure a work visa.We'll start by taking a look at the latest statistics on the influx of professionals to Luxembourg, then we’ll gain insights into the diverse types of visas available and unravel the step-by-step process to secure a work visa.
How many people come to Luxembourg to work?
Luxembourg stands as an enticing destination for employment, drawing a growing number of individuals each year. According to Eurostat, the year 2022 showcased a consistent upward trend over the past decade, barring the dip in 2020 induced by the COVID crisis — back then there have been only 1,554 people immigrating for work purposes, a number that can be compared with 2016-2017's.
1,918
people came to Luxembourg for work purposes in 2021
3,204
people came to Luxembourg for work purposes in 2022
The Grand Duchy's allure is propelled by its notably high salaries, ranking among the top in Europe, coupled with an exceptional quality of life.
Despite these advantages, a curious phenomenon emerges when examining European countries with substantial work-related immigration over the past five years. Interestingly, some countries with the highest influx of labor migrants do not necessarily offer the best salary packages or working conditions.
Source: Eurostat
Luxembourg, despite its attractive remuneration and favorable work conditions, finds itself towards the end of this list. The country's small size and the soaring cost of living, particularly in accommodation, contribute to this placement, presenting a significant barrier for prospective immigrants.
Types of work visas available in Luxembourg
Before moving on to the ins and outs of obtaining a Luxembourg work visa, let's navigate the diverse landscape of visas in Luxembourg to gain a comprehensive understanding of the process.
First and foremost, it's crucial to note that citizens of the European Union, as well as residents in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland, do not require a work permit to live or work in Luxembourg. Conversely, third-country nationals from outside the EU will need both a work and residence permit to legally work in Luxembourg.
Luxembourg offers various types of visas and work permits
Short Stay Visa (C)
Designed for individuals wishing to stay in the Schengen area continuously or intermittently for up to 90 days. Commonly used for business trips, conferences, meetings, and family visits.
Long Stay Visa (D)
Tailored for third-country nationals planning to stay in Luxembourg for over 3 months for reasons such as work, studies, or family reunification with an EU citizen. This is prevalent among salaried workers, self-employed individuals, highly skilled employees, and students. Here we will outline the general procedure to obtain this type of visa, focusing on specific details and nuances for visas related to salaried workers and researchers.
EU Blue Card
Reserved for third-country nationals seeking employment as highly skilled workers in Luxembourg for more than 3 months. This work permit involves a distinct procedure and offers specific advantages. Here we will also discuss details about this visa category.
How to move to Luxembourg with a Blue Card and a regular work visa
Particularities and prerequisites for the different types of work visas
Now that we've gained a comprehensive overview, looking at the statistics and understanding the diverse visa types, we will move on to the specific prerequisites for some of the different work visas in Luxembourg.
Among the long-term visas for employment purposes, there are several categories of visas for professionals
Salaried workers
Highly qualified workers
Posted and transferred workers
Seasonal workers
Researchers
Independant workers
Investors
Athletes and coaches
Two other cases for long-term visa
In addition to these types of long-term visas, there are two other types available in particular scenarios: visas for young domestic helpers (au-pair) and visas for partners and relatives of Luxembourg and EU citizens
Guidelines for Blue Card, researcher and salaried worker
While a detailed exploration of all these visas would be extensive and could warrant multiple articles, our focus here will be on salaried worker visas, highly qualified worker visas, and researcher visas.
Following an examination of the prerequisites for these visa types, we will proceed to analyze the general procedure applicable to all long-stay visas, providing valuable insights for navigating the nuances of obtaining a working visa in Luxembourg.
Visa for highly qualified workers (EU Blue Card)
To secure the Luxembourg skilled worker visa, individuals must meet the following requirements:
An employment contract for right position
A key prerequisite is obtaining an employment contract with a duration equal to or exceeding one year for a highly qualified position.
A substantial remuneration
The offered salary must meet specific criteria based on the sector. At least 1.2 times the Luxembourg average gross annual salary (€67,824) for professions such as mathematicians, systems analysts, software and web designers, programmers, database specialists, and network administrators, where a particular need for third-country workers is identified by the government. At least 1.5 times the Luxembourg average gross annual salary (€84,780) for all other professions.
Proof of qualifications
Submission of a document verifying possession of the required high professional qualifications for the specified activity or sector outlined in the employment contract or satisfying the conditions for practicing a regulated profession indicated in the contract.
ADEM certificate for third-country nationals
Employers must declare a vacant position to the ADEM before considering the hiring of a salaried worker. This declaration enables the ADEM to assess whether suitable job seekers are available in the national or European job market. If the job offer cannot be fulfilled by individuals registered with the ADEM within three weeks and under specific conditions, the employer is permitted to hire a person of their choice, including a third-country national. To obtain the certificate, the employer must formally request the Director of ADEM to issue a certificate authorizing the recruitment of a third-country national. The employer must provide you with the original certificate and you must then submit it with the visa application.
Visa for researchers
To work as a researcher in Luxembourg, specific requirements must be met, including the following two:
A degree eligible for doctoral programs
Obtaining a visa to work in Luxembourg as a researcher necessitates having the requisite educational qualifications eligible for enrollment in doctoral programs. Individuals must possess the educational credentials necessary for entry into a doctoral program to be eligible for a researcher visa.
Hosting agreement with research organisation
The second requirement involves entering into a hosting agreement with an accredited research organization. The agreement outlines the commitment of both the researcher to conduct the research project and the organization to host the researcher for this purpose.
As part of the visa application process, the hosting agreement will be scrutinized for the following elements:
- The research objectives, their duration, and the availability of necessary financial resources,
- The researcher's qualifications related to the research objectives, verified through certified copies of the required diplomas,
- The researcher's monthly resources, at least equivalent to the minimum social salary for a qualified worker, covering stay and return expenses without relying on social assistance, and the provision of health insurance,
- The legal relationship specified in the hosting agreement, along with the researcher's working conditions.
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Visa for salaried workers
Let us now take a closer look at the Luxembourg work visa requirements for salaried workers. To secure this type of visa, there are two main requirements:
An employment contract
To initiate the process of obtaining a work visa in Luxembourg, the first essential step is securing an employment contract for a position with a duration of one year or more. It's important to note that obtaining a work visa is contingent upon securing a valid employment contract; the visa application cannot proceed without it.
ADEM sertificate for third-country nationals
Employers must declare a vacant position to the ADEM before considering the hiring of a salaried worker. This declaration enables the ADEM to assess whether suitable job seekers are available in the national or European job market. If the job offer cannot be fulfilled by individuals registered with the ADEM within three weeks and under specific conditions, the employer is permitted to hire a person of their choice, including a third-country national. To obtain the certificate, the employer must formally request the Director of ADEM to issue a certificate authorizing the recruitment of a third-country national. The employer must provide you with the original certificate and you must then submit it with the visa application.
How to apply for a work visa in Luxembourg?
Now that we've explored the prerequisites for work visas, researcher visas, and visas for highly qualified workers, let's outline the general procedure to be followed once these prerequisites are met. This procedure remains consistent for almost all long-stay visas (Type D visas), ensuring a streamlined application process for individuals seeking to obtain a Luxembourg work visa.
MON — FRI
8:00 – 17:00
SAT — SUN
Closed
With RDV only!
To visit the directorate for foreigners, you will need to take an appointment (rendez-vous).
Before entering Luxembourg
The first step in the process is to apply for a temporary residence permit, and for certain individuals, this also includes obtaining a Type D visa. Let's take a closer look at these two aspects.
Application for a temporary residence permit
Prospective employees must apply for a temporary residence permit on plain paper from their country of origin. This should be addressed to the Immigration Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, a diplomatic or consular representation of Luxembourg, or a diplomatic or consular mission representing Luxembourg. The application must specify the applicant's identity with their exact address and should be accompanied by the following documents and information:
- A copy of the passport,
- If the applicant already resides in the Schengen area, a copy of the residence permit from another EU member state,
- A criminal record extract or an affidavit issued in the country of residence,
- A curriculum vitae,
- Copies of educational degrees or professional qualifications.
Additional documents are also required based on the type of visa you are applying to.
For salaried worker visas
1. A copy of the contract between the applicant and their future employer in Luxembourg. 2. The original certificate issued by the National Employment Agency (ADEM) authorizing the employer to hire a third-country national.
For researcher visas
1. A pre-signed hosting agreement with an accredited research organization. 2. A detailed undertaking of financial responsibility for the researcher's stay and return, issued by the research organization after signing the hosting agreement.
For highly qualified worker visas
1. A copy of the employment contract with a duration of at least one year and an annual gross salary of at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary (or 1.2 times for specific professions) as we discuss in the previous section. 2. The original certificate issued by ADEM authorizing the employer to hire a third-country national.
Processing time for workers visa in Luxembourg
The response time for salaried worker and researcher visas is a maximum of 4 months, and for highly qualified worker visas, it's 3 months. If approved, the temporary residence permit, valid for 90 days, will be sent by mail to your residential address.
Application for type D visa
In addition to the temporary permit, some individuals need to apply for a long-stay visa (Type D) to enter Luxembourg. This depends on agreements between the applicant's country of origin and Luxembourg. The Luxembourg government provides a list of countries whose citizens need to apply for this visa.
To apply, individuals must personally visit the Luxembourg diplomatic or consular mission in their country of origin or, if unavailable, the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country representing Luxembourg within 90 days of obtaining the temporary residence permit.
The application for a Type D visa should include:
- Two recent identical passport photos,
- A valid passport with a validity exceeding the requested visa period by at least 3 months,
- The granted temporary residence permit.
How much does Visa D cost?
This visa costs 50 euros and is valid for 90 days. Once approved, it is stamped in the passport as a seal or sticker.
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After entering Luxembourg
The second stage, undertaken once in Luxembourg, involves three steps: making an arrival declaration, undergoing a medical examination, and subsequently applying for a residence permit. Let's examine each step in detail.
Arrival declaration
Within 3 days of arriving in Luxembourg, it is mandatory to make an arrival declaration at the municipality of residence. Required documents include:
- A valid identification document such as a passport, visa, or residence permit issued by another EU member state,
- The temporary residence permit,
- Proof of address, which can be a lease agreement or utility bill, oor a lease agreement.
Documents to be collected!
Upon completion, the applicant receives a copy of the arrival declaration in the form of a printed document, that will be further send as part of application package.
Medical check
The next step involves undergoing a medical examination as soon as possible. This examination comprises two essential components in the following order.
GP examination
A medical examination conducted by a licensed general practitioner in Luxembourg will be a first step. The doctor, which you may choose yourself on Doctena, for example, will ask you questions and examine your general health. You will need the doctor's contact information to go for a further tuberculosis screening and recieve results of the test.
TB blood test
A tuberculosis screening test performed by a medical analysis laboratory in Luxembourg: there are governmental clinics with sometimes long waiting lines, that cost around 30 euros, and there are private clinics that can do the same tests for about 100 euros. You need to take an appointment for TB screening several months before the test, as they might be more unavailable than general practitioners.
Following the results, the Health Inspection of the Ministry of Health issues a medical certificate, which is then sent to the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs to process the residence permit application.
Residence permit application
The application for a residence permit must be submitted within 3 months of arriving in Luxembourg to the Immigration Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs. This can be done online through MyGuichet.lu or by mail, by sending the residence permit application form to the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.
Application form in French
In both cases, the following documents must be attached:
- A copy of the passport,
- A copy of the temporary residence permit,
- A copy of the arrival declaration issued by the municipal administration,
- Proof of housing, which can include a lease agreement, property deed, or other relevant documents,
- Proof of a €80 state fee payment via bank transfer to the account IBAN LU46 1111 2582 2814 0000 (BIC: CCPLLULL, beneficiary: Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Immigration Directorate; communication: residence permit for ...).
Upon approval of the application, the applicant receives a letter inviting them to schedule an appointment with the Immigration Directorate for the capture of a photo and fingerprints, which will be incorporated into the residence permit.
How long before you have your titre de sejour card?
Just a few days after providing biometric data, the applicant will receive an invitation to personally collect their residence permit from the Immigration Office at Route d'Arlon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What types of work visas are available in Luxembourg?
Luxembourg offers various work visas, including those for salaried workers, highly qualified individuals (EU Blue Card), researchers, and specific categories like seasonal workers and self-employed individuals. Each type of visa caters to different professional needs and qualifications.
What are the prerequisites for obtaining a work visa in Luxembourg?
Prerequisites include a valid job offer, a contract with a duration of at least one year, and adherence to specific salary requirements. Additionally, applicants must fulfill educational qualifications relevant to their field.
Do I need a job offer before applying for a work visa in Luxembourg?
Yes, obtaining a work visa in Luxembourg typically requires a confirmed job offer from a Luxembourgish employer. The job offer should meet certain criteria, including contract duration, salary, and other employment terms.
Are there any specific requirements for researchers and highly qualified workers?
Researchers need to hold a degree enabling access to doctoral programs and sign an agreement with an accredited research organization. Highly qualified workers must possess a work contract with a minimum duration and salary requirements, and both categories undergo a specific application process.
What is the role of the ADEM (National Employment Agency) in the visa application process?
The ADEM plays a crucial role by issuing a certificate authorizing employers to hire third-country nationals. For certain visas, such as those for salaried workers, this certificate from ADEM is a prerequisite for the visa application, demonstrating the need for the foreign employee in the labor market.
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Source: guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, www.globalization-partners.com
We took photos from these sources: Photo by Andrea Piacquadio for Pexels
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