Guide to Residency in Luxembourg

Obtaining a residency visa in Luxembourg is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Luxembourg gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Check Eligibility for Residency
  • Ensure you meet the criteria for residency, such as being a citizen of the EU/EEA/Switzerland or having a valid work, study, or family reason if from outside these areas.
  • Visit the official Luxembourg government portal for detailed eligibility criteria: Guichet.lu
• Prepare Necessary Documentation
  • Gather personal identification documents, such as a valid passport or national ID card.
  • Obtain proof of employment, study enrollment, or family ties in Luxembourg, depending on your situation.
  • Prepare proof of accommodation in Luxembourg, like a rental agreement or property deed.
  • Get health insurance coverage that is valid in Luxembourg.
• Register with the Local Commune
  • Within 8 days of arrival, go to the local commune's office where you reside to declare your arrival.
  • Fill out the declaration of arrival form provided by the commune.
  • Submit the necessary documentation, including identification and proof of accommodation.
  • Find your local commune's contact information here: Commune Directory
• Apply for a Residence Certificate
  • After registering with the local commune, apply for a residence certificate within three months of arrival.
  • Complete the appropriate application form for your residency category (worker, student, family member, etc.).
  • Submit the application form along with the required documents to the Immigration Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.
  • Access the application forms and further instructions here: Immigration Directorate
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the Luxembourg Inland Revenue (Administration des Contributions Directes) to apply for a tax number.
  • Provide your identification documents and residence certificate.
  • Complete the tax number application form available at the office or online.
  • For more information, visit the official website: Luxembourg Inland Revenue
• Register for Social Security
  • Go to the Luxembourg Social Security (Centre Commun de la Sécurité Sociale - CCSS) to register.
  • Present your residence certificate, work contract, and identification documents.
  • Fill out the necessary forms for social security affiliation.
  • Learn more about the process at: CCSS
• Open a Bank Account
  • Choose a bank in Luxembourg and visit a branch in person.
  • Provide your passport or national ID card, proof of address, and residence certificate.
  • Complete the bank's application process, which may include a background check and initial deposit.
• Attend the Integration Contract (Contrat d'Accueil et d'Intégration - CAI)
  • Sign up for the CAI, which is a program designed to help new residents integrate into Luxembourg society.
  • Participate in orientation sessions, language courses, and civic instruction as required.
  • Find more information and sign up here: OLAI

Please note that the above steps are a general guide and the exact process may vary depending on your specific circumstances and any changes to Luxembourg's immigration policies. Always refer to the official Luxembourg government websites for the most current information and procedures.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Luxembourg?

"In order to visit Luxembourg, foreign nationals must obtain a Schengen visa from the Luxembourgish Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting a completed application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of accommodation, proof of financial means, and a travel itinerary. In order to obtain residency in Luxembourg, foreign nationals must apply for a residence permit. The process of applying for residency involves submitting a completed application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of accommodation, proof of financial means, proof of health insurance, and a criminal record check. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required," commented one member living in Luxembourg.