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Moving to Luxembourg City, Luxembourg | Expat Exchange
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Flower Market in Luxembourg City

Moving to Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Aug 12, 2024

Summary: Expats move to Luxembourg City, Luxembourg for its high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and strong economy. The city is known for its low crime rate, excellent public transportation, and vibrant cultural scene. Luxembourg City is also home to a large international community, making it an ideal destination for expats looking to make new connections and experience a different culture. Additionally, Luxembourg City is a great place to work, with many multinational companies based in the city and a strong job market.

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What do I need to know before moving to Luxembourg City?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Luxembourg City, they said:

"-When you plan to move to Luxembourg City, it is important to be aware of the immigration laws and regulations. -You will need to obtain a residence permit and/or a work permit to live and work in Luxembourg City depending on your nationality and type of employment. -You need to familiarize yourself with the Luxembourgish language, although English is widely spoken in the city. -It is suggested to research the job market and housing options beforehand in order to make a smooth transition. -A valid EU driver’s license is necessary to drive while in Luxembourg City, as well as a valid form of identification. -Assuming you are not moving as an employee with a company, you may need to open a bank account in Luxembourg City. -The quality of healthcare in Luxembourg is generally deemed to be good, so registering for health insurance is recommended. -It is important to note that many documents like a passport and/or visa might be requested as part of the entry process. -The climate in Luxembourg city is typical of Central Europe, with moderate temperatures in summer, and cold temperatures in winter," said one expat in Luxembourg City.

How do I find a place to live in Luxembourg City?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"If you are looking for a place to live in Luxembourg City, you can start by searching online for rental websites or listings. There are various websites that list apartments for rent and you can use the search filters to help you find the type of accommodation that best suits your needs and budget. Your local municipality should also have listings for available rentable properties. Additionally, you can look for classifieds in newspapers, or reach out to real estate agents to inquire about more options. You may also want to consider student housing if you are a student. Finally, word of mouth can be a great way to find out about available rental options in the city," said one expat in Luxembourg City.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Luxembourg City?

"Expat housing in Luxembourg City ranges from studio apartments to houses and villas depending on the size and budget of the expat. Most expat apartments come with modern furnishings, multiple bathrooms, and balconies with views of the city or the surrounding countryside. Additionally, many expat homes come with modern kitchen appliances such as dishwashers, washer-dryers, and ovens. Housing here is relatively expensive, making it difficult for single expats to find more affordable apartments. Nonetheless, the country offers an excellent quality of life with an abundance of cultural activities and friendly locals," said one expat in Luxembourg City.

What is the average cost of housing in Luxembourg City?

If you are thinking about moving to Luxembourg City, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Luxembourg City is generally higher than other cities in the country due to its location and the premium for its high quality of life. Prices for apartments can range from around 1,000 euros per square meter in outskirts, up to 3,500 euros per square meter for luxury apartments in the city centre," explained one expat living in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg.

Should I buy or rent a home in Luxembourg City?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Luxembourg City, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"The decision between buying and renting a home in Luxembourg City ultimately depends your individual needs and preferences. Some considerations to make when deciding between buying or renting include the location, budget, desired length of stay, and whether or not you plan to put down roots in the city. Buying a home in Luxembourg City can be a large financial commitment, but if you are planning to stay long-term and prefer the stability and security of owning property, buying may be the best route. Those who are looking to stay in the city for a shorter time period and have a limited budget may find that renting a home is the best choice. Consider your needs and preferences carefully when deciding whether to buy or rent in Luxembourg City," remarked one expat who made the move to Luxembourg City.

What should I pack when moving to Luxembourg City?

We asked people living in Luxembourg City to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"Clothing for all seasons, comfortable walking shoes, rain gear, toiletries, bedding, kitchen and bath items, phone and computer chargers, important documents, a first aid kit, any items necessary for a specific lifestyle (e.g. pet supplies, sports gear, etc.) and a selection of both local and international food items to get you started," commented one expat who made the move to Luxembourg City.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Luxembourg City?

We asked people in Luxembourg City if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"In Luxembourg City it is polite to take off your hat, sunglasses and coat when inside a home. As with all places it is a good idea to be aware of body language and to not be overly loud and disruptive. Another important consideration is that Luxembourgish is the main language spoken and without a knowledge of it, English will be the default, although it is courteous to at least attempt to learn some phrases in the language. Also it is important to be aware that while there are many different sects of Christianity present, the main religion is Catholicism so respect should be paid to churches and other places of worship. Finally, it is considered impolite to talk about money, finances and salary in public," replied a member in Luxembourg City.

"I think the most humorous blunders for the whole family have been because of translation and mispronunciations issues. With 4 languages it can get quite confusing. We've had a few conversations where we thought we were talking about air and hair and the function of our radiator when it turned out to really be horses but the English mispronunciation back to us was "whores". Between the 4 languages, air, hair, horse and whores can all sound very similar and when ever so slightly used incorrectly can erupt a room into laughter. We can hardly talk about hair and horses anymore without busting up with laughter every time. On a recent visit to Germany I wanted to practice a couple phrases I learned, to order our favorite lunch. I got to the counter and successfully made the order but at the end one of my kids changed their minds but I hadn't practiced the new choice. I must have looked so lost because the lady spoke up, in English, and asked if she had heard my child correctly and this would be the final order. I was shocked, assuming she didn't know English and confirmed the order. When I asked about her English she said, "oh yes I speak a lot of English but I thought you wanted to practice your German so I just let you"!! *blush*," commented one expat who made the move to Luxembourg City.

Why do people move to Luxembourg City?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Luxembourg City, they responded:

"Expats are attracted to Luxembourg City for various reasons, including its high standard of living, strong economy, and excellent job opportunities, particularly in the finance and technology sectors. The city is known for its multicultural environment, with a large percentage of the population being foreign nationals, making it easier for expats to integrate and feel at home. Luxembourg City also offers a high-quality education system, with numerous international schools catering to different nationalities and languages. The city's strategic location in the heart of Europe allows for easy travel to neighboring countries, such as France, Germany, and Belgium, making it an ideal base for exploring the continent. Luxembourg City boasts a rich cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as a vibrant dining scene featuring diverse international cuisine. Luxembourg City is also known for its safety and cleanliness, making it an attractive place for families to settle down. The city offers a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling, thanks to its picturesque landscapes and well-maintained parks and green spaces. Additionally, the country's healthcare system is highly regarded, providing residents with access to top-quality medical care. Finally, the attractive tax system in Luxembourg is another factor that draws expats to the city, as it offers favorable conditions for both individuals and businesses. Overall, Luxembourg City's combination of economic stability, high quality of life, and diverse cultural offerings make it an appealing destination for expats from around the world," said one expat.

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How are healthcare services Luxembourg City?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Luxembourg City, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Luxembourg City, are of high quality and easily accessible to both residents and visitors. The country has a well-developed public healthcare system, which is funded through social security contributions and provides comprehensive coverage for a wide range of medical services. In addition to public hospitals and clinics, there are also numerous private healthcare facilities that offer specialized treatments and services. The healthcare professionals in Luxembourg City are highly trained and skilled, with many of them having studied and worked in other European countries. The city is home to several renowned medical institutions, such as the Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg and the Clinique d'Eich, which provide a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. Primary care in Luxembourg City is provided by general practitioners, who serve as the first point of contact for patients seeking medical attention. These doctors can refer patients to specialists if necessary, and they also coordinate with other healthcare providers to ensure that patients receive the appropriate care. Pharmacies are widely available throughout Luxembourg City, and they are well-stocked with a variety of medications and medical supplies. Many pharmacists are multilingual and can provide advice on over-the-counter medications and treatments. Dental care is also readily available in Luxembourg City, with numerous dental clinics and practices offering a range of services, from routine check-ups to more specialized treatments. As with other healthcare services, dental care is covered by the public healthcare system, although some treatments may require additional out-of-pocket payments. In summary, healthcare services in Luxembourg City are of high quality, comprehensive, and easily accessible to residents and visitors alike. The city boasts a well-developed public healthcare system, as well as numerous private facilities, ensuring that patients have access to a wide range of medical services and treatments," commented one expat living in Luxembourg City.

"Purchase supplemental health insurance. You need your CNS card to do it and that usually takes a few weeks to arrive. As soon as it does, you can purchase the insurance which covers things like private rooms, whatever CNS doesn't cover and travel abroad. Go directly to the insurance company (there are many to choose from) and ask for a quote. Going to an independent agent can be much more expensive. I came from the US where we had international insurance until January when we went "local" and went onto Luxembourg's health insurance system (CNS) . I broke a tooth in February and we didn't have our CNS cards yet. But I mailed in all my expenses after the tooth extraction, stiches and post implanted (this was 2200 euro) . They paid zero. I have resubmitted my request after the implant was completed for an additional 1500 euro and still have not received anything from CNS. Also I find it very difficult with CNS because of the language barrier on my end. In the meantime we applied for supplemental insurance and was told I had to wait 8 months for dental coverage. I also travel to the US to see our children. I have a separate policy for that at a cost of 119 euro a year + 43 euros a month if I stay over 3 months. My daughter is employed, but we also had to purchase independent insurance for my college aged son at a cost of $1700/year. The supplemental insurance for my husband and me costs about 225 euro/month. If you don't go to the US for more than 4 weeks, you are set, but if you do, you may want to look into costs of coverage. CNS will only pay what they would pay in Luxembourg for coverage so you really do need something," commented one expat who moved to Luxembourg City, Luxembourg.

What are medical services in Luxembourg City like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Luxembourg City, they replied:

"Medical services in Luxembourg City are of high quality, with well-equipped hospitals, clinics, and healthcare centers. The city has both public and private healthcare facilities, offering a wide range of services, including general practitioners, specialists, and emergency care. Healthcare professionals are highly trained, and many of them speak multiple languages, including English. The healthcare system in Luxembourg is funded through a social security system, which covers most medical expenses for residents. Private health insurance is also available for additional coverage. Pharmacies are easily accessible throughout the city, and many are open 24 hours for emergencies. Overall, Luxembourg City provides excellent medical services to its residents and visitors," commented one expat who moved to Luxembourg City.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Flower Market in Luxembourg City

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