Employers hiring globally must ensure compliance with immigration laws in each country. With the rise of remote work, some employees choose to become digital nomads or live and work abroad permanently.
It can be challenging for companies to comply with local visa and immigration laws when a team member moves abroad. If an employee wishes to work in Luxembourg, the company must ensure they have the correct documentation to work legally in the country.
Who is Eligible to Work in Luxembourg?
It’s essential for employers to verify that each employee can legally work in the country they choose.
- EU/EEA Workers: For the first three months, workers from the EU and EEA do not need permits or visas to work in Luxembourg.
- Non-EU/EEA Workers: Non-citizens of the EU and EEA must apply for the appropriate visa and work permit. Check out this list of countries whose citizens require a visa to enter and work in Luxembourg. Non-EU citizens may be eligible for an EU Blue Card, allowing them to work in Luxembourg.
What is the European Union Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card is a residence and work permit for highly qualified workers from outside the EU/EEA. Supported by 25 European countries, including Luxembourg, it requires applicants to have higher qualifications, a high salary, travel documents, and an employment contract.
Eligibility Requirements for a Luxembourg Work Visa
Eligibility depends on the length of stay and the applicant’s country of origin.
- EU Nationals: For stays under three months, a national ID or passport suffices. For longer stays, additional processes are required.
- Non-EU Nationals: Third-country nationals staying for less than 90 days must get a work permit if not exempt. Visas can be short-stay (Visa C) for 90 days or long-stay (Visa D) for over 90 days.
Procedure to Obtain a Work Permit for Under 90 Days
Employers must declare a job vacancy to the National Employment Agency (ADEM), who checks if the position can be filled by a Luxembourger or an EU citizen. If not, the employer can start the employment contract and request a certificate. Visa applications should be submitted between six months and 15 days before the intended visit.
Required Documents:
- Identity proof and country of origin
- Two recent photos
- Invitation letter for a business trip
- Proof of finances
- Passport copy
- Degree or qualification copies
- Legally compliant employment contract
- ADEM certificate
- Health insurance coverage
- Power of attorney, if applicable
Procedure to Obtain a Work Permit for Over 90 Days
For a long-stay visa, employees must have a passport valid for at least 90 days beyond the visa expiration. Employers must declare a job vacancy to ADEM. Applicants first apply for a “temporary authorization to stay” and then for a Type D visa.
Required Documents:
- Valid passport
- ADEM certificate
- Declaration of arrival in Luxembourg
- Medical check
- Residence permit application
Sponsorship and Application Processing
Employers must declare job vacancies, request certificates, and notify government authorities of employment starts. Sponsorship is required before visa approval.
Processing Time:
- Schengen visa: ~15 days for EU applicants
- Work visa: ~30 days for non-EU applicants
Workers can relocate to Luxembourg once they have all necessary permits and visas.
Digital Nomads and Luxembourg Work Visa
Luxembourg currently does not have a specific digital nomad visa. For short durations, digital nomads can apply for a short-term Visa C.
Using an Employer of Record in Luxembourg
To employ workers legally in Luxembourg, employers must ensure their employees have the appropriate work visa. Hiring international workers adds value to your team, and it’s crucial to help them obtain the correct visas and work permits, ensuring compliance with immigration regulations.