Moving to Luxembourg: An Expat’s Guide

Published on September 29, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Luxembourg, a small country at the heart of Europe, attracts many expatriates thanks to its dynamic economy and high quality of life. Here is a comprehensive guide to successfully settling in the Grand Duchy.

Prepare for your Luxembourg adventure

Before packing your bags, there are several essential steps to plan:

• Research the cost of living, which is significantly higher than in France, particularly for housing
• Learn the basics of Luxembourgish, in addition to French which is widely used
• Contact your bank to inform them of your departure
• Review your insurance policies (health, home, vehicle)
• Gather all your important documents (passport, diplomas, etc.)

Also remember to research Luxembourg taxation, which differs from the French system.

First steps on Luxembourg soil: essential procedures

Once you arrive, several administrative formalities await you:

• Arrival declaration at your residential municipality within 8 days
• Obtaining a social security number
• Opening a local bank account
• Subscribing to health insurance
• Vehicle registration if necessary

Immersion in Luxembourg culture: keys to integration

To feel at home in Luxembourg:

• Participate in numerous cultural events organized throughout the year
• Join expatriate associations to meet other newcomers
• Enroll in Luxembourgish language classes to facilitate your integration
• Explore different regions of the country during your weekends

Don’t hesitate to mingle with locals in cafés and restaurants to discover the Luxembourgish way of life.

Visa and residence permit: instructions for non-Europeans

If you are not an EU national, you must obtain a visa before your arrival:

• Short-stay visa (up to 90 days): apply at the Luxembourg consulate in your country
• Long-stay visa: requires temporary residence authorization

Once on site, you must apply for a residence permit within 3 months of your arrival.

The search for ideal housing: tips for finding your cozy nest

The Luxembourg real estate market is tight, here are some leads:

• Check specialized websites like athome.lu or immotop.lu
• Use a local real estate agency
• Explore dedicated Facebook groups for rentals
• Consider shared housing to reduce costs

Plan for a substantial budget: rents in Luxembourg City are among the highest in Europe.

Renewing your residence permit: anticipate the procedures

To extend your stay in Luxembourg:

• Begin procedures 2 months before your residence permit expires
• Gather necessary documents (proof of address, employment contract, etc.)
• Submit your application to the Immigration Directorate

Required paperwork: don’t neglect these essential formalities

Some administrative procedures not to forget:

• Annual tax declaration
• Renewal of your residence card
• Update of your municipal registration if you move
• Affiliation with the National Health Fund

Carefully keep all your official documents, they will be useful for various procedures.

Expatriate rights and duties: what Luxembourg law says

As a foreigner in Luxembourg, you benefit from many rights but must also respect certain obligations:

• Right to vote in municipal elections after 5 years of residence
• Access to healthcare and education systems
• Obligation to declare any address change
• Respect for local laws, particularly regarding employment

Moving to Luxembourg as an expatriate requires preparation and patience, but offers excellent professional and personal opportunities. By following this guide and remaining open to the local culture, your expatriation will undoubtedly be an enriching experience.