Who Needs a Work Permit in Luxembourg
In Luxembourg, work permits are generally required for non-European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Swiss nationals seeking employment. Employers must confirm whether their prospective hires fall under this category to avoid legal complications. EU/EEA and Swiss citizens can work in Luxembourg without a permit, but other international hires must obtain the appropriate authorization.
Types of Work Visas in Luxembourg
Luxembourg offers several work visas tailored to various professional and economic needs. Employers must select the appropriate visa type based on the employee's qualifications and job requirements.
Visa Type | Description |
Short-Term Visa | Allows individuals to work in Luxembourg for up to 90 days. |
EU Blue Card | For highly skilled professionals earning above a set salary threshold. |
Standard Work Permit | Issued for long-term employment opportunities in Luxembourg. |
Entrepreneur Visa | Designed for business owners and investors setting up operations in Luxembourg. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Luxembourg
When hiring talent in Luxembourg, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Luxembourg. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (approximately 8–12 weeks), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Luxembourg.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Luxembourg
Independent professionals in Luxembourg can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Malawian Kwacha (MWK) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Luxembourg.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Luxembourg
Transferring an existing team member to Luxembourg? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Africa, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements for a Work Permit in Luxembourg
To apply for a work permit in Luxembourg, several criteria must be met, demonstrating the employer's and employee's compliance with immigration regulations.
- Valid Job Offer: The employer must present a signed employment contract.
- Proof of Non-Local Hiring Need: Employers must justify hiring a foreign national due to a skills shortage.
- Adequate Qualifications: The applicant must meet the education and experience criteria for the role.
Luxembourg Work Permit Application Process
- Step 1: Advertise the job within the EU/EEA for at least three weeks.
- Step 2: Verify the applicant's qualifications and ensure they meet the job's requirements.
- Step 3: Submit the application to Luxembourg's Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs with supporting documentation.
- Step 4: Await approval and provide the permit to the employee before their arrival in Luxembourg.
Process for Visa Sponsorship in Luxembourg
Visa sponsorship in Luxembourg involves the employer actively supporting the employee's work permit application. This includes providing job-specific documents, such as the employment contract and proof of economic necessity, and assisting the employee with any required translations or notarizations.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Luxembourg
The fees for work permits and visas in Luxembourg vary depending on the visa type. Employers and employees should factor these costs into their planning.
Visa Type | Application Fee |
Short-Term Visa | €80 |
EU Blue Card | €140 |
Standard Work Permit | €100 |
Processing Time for a Work Permit or Visa in Luxembourg
Work permits and visas in Luxembourg typically take 8–12 weeks to process, depending on the visa type and the completeness of the submitted application.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in Luxembourg
Renewals for Luxembourg work permits are usually required annually but can vary depending on the visa type. Employers must ensure timely renewal to avoid disruptions to employment.
Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Luxembourg
Although Luxembourg does not yet have a specific "digital nomad visa," professionals working remotely may qualify for other visa categories, provided they meet the necessary requirements.
- Proof of Income: Evidence of sustainable remote income.
- Health Insurance: Valid coverage in Luxembourg.
- Residence Address: Proof of accommodation in Luxembourg.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Luxembourg
Employers in Luxembourg often face challenges when hiring international workers, such as navigating regulatory complexities and meeting local labor market test requirements.
- Compliance: Ensuring adherence to Luxembourg's immigration laws.
- Processing Delays: Managing employee expectations during lengthy visa approvals.