Let's explore the key steps and aspects of obtaining a luxembourg work permit to prepare for a successful career in this economically developed country.
What countries need work permit in Luxembourg?
Citizens of the European Union (EU), along with residents of Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland, are not required to obtain work permits for residing or working in Luxembourg. Conversely, individuals from non-EU countries will necessitate both a work and residence permit to lawfully engage in employment with your company in Luxembourg.
Work permit in Luxembourg: non-EU
For non-EU nationals seeking employment in Luxembourg without residing in the country, obtaining a work permit is a crucial step. This applies to individuals legally residing in another EU Member State or a country treated as such (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland). The process involves a labor market test, where the employer declares the vacant position to the National Employment Agency (ADEM) to assess the availability of local or European candidates.
Highly qualified employees may be exempt from the labor market test, provided they have a contract for a highly qualified position, possess the required professional qualifications, and receive a salary meeting specific criteria. If the employer can't find a suitable candidate within three weeks, they can request a certificate from ADEM allowing them to recruit their preferred candidate.
The application for a work permit involves submitting various documents, including a valid passport, an authorization to stay from another EU Member State, a recent household composition certificate, a curriculum vitae, diplomas or professional qualifications, and a signed employment contract complying with Luxembourg labor laws. The Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs typically responds within three months.
For highly qualified workers, additional criteria, such as a salary at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary, are considered. Work permits are initially issued for a specific profession in one sector with any employer, and a change of sector or profession requires approval from the Ministry responsible for immigration.
The validity of a work permit is usually for a maximum of one year, with subsequent renewals possible for up to three years. Renewal requires proof of actual employment during the validity period. Lost or damaged work permits can be replaced by submitting the necessary documentation.
Highly qualified employees may be exempt from the labor market test, provided they have a contract for a highly qualified position, possess the required professional qualifications, and receive a salary meeting specific criteria. If the employer can't find a suitable candidate within three weeks, they can request a certificate from ADEM allowing them to recruit their preferred candidate.
The application for a work permit involves submitting various documents, including a valid passport, an authorization to stay from another EU Member State, a recent household composition certificate, a curriculum vitae, diplomas or professional qualifications, and a signed employment contract complying with Luxembourg labor laws. The Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs typically responds within three months.
For highly qualified workers, additional criteria, such as a salary at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary, are considered. Work permits are initially issued for a specific profession in one sector with any employer, and a change of sector or profession requires approval from the Ministry responsible for immigration.
The validity of a work permit is usually for a maximum of one year, with subsequent renewals possible for up to three years. Renewal requires proof of actual employment during the validity period. Lost or damaged work permits can be replaced by submitting the necessary documentation.
Luxembourg work permit for EU
For citizens of the European Union (EU) or nationals from countries treated as such, Luxembourg offers a streamlined process for work and residence, ensuring freedom of movement within the EU. The procedures differ based on the duration of stay:
Stay Less Than 3 Months:
Stay More Than 3 Months:
Who is Concerned:
Prerequisites:
Procedure for Stays Over 90 Days:
Additional Information:
Loss, Theft, or Damage of the Permit:
Stay Less Than 3 Months:
- No formalities are required for stays such as tourism, family visits, business trips, or short-term professional activities.
- EU nationals only need a valid national identity card or passport.
Stay More Than 3 Months:
- EU nationals intending to stay longer must declare their arrival within 8 days and register at the commune where they plan to reside.
- Registration must be completed within 3 months of arrival.
Who is Concerned:
- Salaried workers, self-employed individuals, non-working persons with financial means, students, and family members of EU nationals fall under these regulations.
Prerequisites:
- EU nationals must hold a valid national identity card or passport when planning their journey.
Procedure for Stays Over 90 Days:
- Declaration of Arrival:
- Within 8 days of arrival, EU citizens declare their arrival at the commune and provide required documents, including a valid ID or passport, family record book, marriage/partnership certificate, and children's birth certificates.
- A certificate of residence can be requested after the declaration.
- Registration Certificate:
- EU nationals must fill in a registration form at the commune within 90 days of arrival.
- Documents required depend on the category (salaried workers, self-employed, non-working persons, students, or family members).
Additional Information:
- Documents not in German, French, or English require a certified translation.
- After residing for 5 years in Luxembourg, EU nationals and their family members can apply for a permanent residence permit.
Loss, Theft, or Damage of the Permit:
- In case of loss or theft, an application for replacement must be submitted, along with a copy of an ID card/passport and a police report.
- For damaged permits, an application for replacement, along with a copy of an ID card/passport and the damaged certificate, is required.
Luxembourg work visa: nuances of obtaining
To apply for a work visa in Luxembourg, you will need the following documents:
- Employment Agreement: The employment contract serves as evidence that you have secured a job in Luxembourg. It should detail essential information such as salary, duration of employment, and your designated position.
- Educational and Professional Credentials: Provide a copy of your diplomas or any relevant professional qualifications. This supports your application by demonstrating your educational background and expertise in the field.
Luxembourg work permit: processing time
The typical timeline for obtaining a work permit in Luxembourg ranges from 3 to 9 months before entry into the country, with an additional 1 to 2 months required to finalize the entire process.
Temporary residence permit Luxembourg work permit
Temporary residence permits in Luxembourg, closely tied to work permits, are essential for foreign nationals seeking to reside and work in the country. The issuance process typically spans from 3 to 9 months, emphasizing the meticulous nature of Luxembourg's immigration procedures. To secure a temporary residence permit, applicants must present a comprehensive work contract detailing crucial aspects like salary, position, and duration of employment. Additionally, submission of copies of academic and professional qualifications is mandatory, ensuring that individuals meet the necessary skill and education requirements. The entire process, from application to completion, takes approximately 1 to 2 months post-entry, underscoring the thorough scrutiny and administrative steps involved in obtaining a temporary residence permit for employment in Luxembourg.
Luxembourg work permit: renewal
Renewing a work permit in Luxembourg is a crucial process for individuals seeking to extend their legal authorization to work in the country. The renewal procedure typically involves submitting an application to the Immigration Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs two months before the expiration of the existing permit. Essential documentation, such as a valid passport, an updated employment contract complying with Luxembourg labor laws, and a recent certificate of affiliation to the Luxembourg Joint Social Security Centre, is required. The renewal period can be up to three years for the first renewal, allowing access to any sector and profession, provided eligibility criteria are met. However, individuals must demonstrate actual employment during the previous permit's validity period.
Can I work in Luxembourg with German residence permit?
Certainly. If you hold a German residence permit, it allows you to travel within the Schengen Area, which includes Luxembourg. Luxembourg is a member of the Schengen Zone, and as such, you can work in Luxembourg without needing an additional work permit as long as you comply with the regulations set forth by your German residence permit.
Luxembourg post study work permit
Luxembourg does not have a specific post-study work permit program. However, graduates from recognized higher education institutions in Luxembourg, including universities and other accredited establishments, may have the opportunity to extend their residence permit to seek employment after completing their studies. This extension typically allows graduates to transition from student status to that of a job seeker or employee. The process usually involves obtaining a job offer and then applying for a new residence permit for work purposes.
