Introduction

Luxembourg, a vibrant European nation known as the "Green Heart of Europe," is a prime destination for Indian professionals due to its thriving economy, high standard of living, and multilingual environment where French, German, and English are widely spoken. With opportunities in finance, technology, and international organizations like Amazon and Deloitte, Luxembourg attracts skilled workers globally. For Indian nationals planning to stay in Luxembourg for more than three months, obtaining an Authorisation to Stay (ATS) is a crucial first step. This comprehensive guide, based on reliable information from official sources such as the Luxembourg government’s immigration portal and the Embassy of Luxembourg in New Delhi, details the ATS process, visa fees, required documents, and steps to secure a residence permit for a Luxembourg work visa for Indians.

Why Choose Luxembourg?

Luxembourg offers compelling reasons for Indian professionals to consider relocating:

• Career Opportunities: Home to global companies and EU institutions, Luxembourg provides excellent job prospects in sectors like finance, IT, and consulting.
• Multilingual Environment: The widespread use of English, alongside French and German, facilitates integration for Indian professionals.
• High Quality of Life: Luxembourg boasts top-tier healthcare, education, and safety, making it ideal for professionals and their families.
• Work-Life Balance: Competitive salaries and a focus on employee well-being ensure a balanced lifestyle.

This guide focuses on the Luxembourg work visa for Indians, specifically the ATS process for salaried workers, ensuring you have all the tools to navigate the immigration system.

Looking for personal guidance on studying in Luxembourg? Connect with an international student from the University of Luxembourg or Luxembourg Business School today!

What is Authorisation to Stay (ATS)?

The Authorisation to Stay (ATS) is a temporary permit required for third-country nationals, including Indians, who intend to stay in Luxembourg for more than three months for purposes such as work, study, or family reunification. Issued by the General Department of Immigration, depending on the Ministry of Home Affairs, the ATS is valid for 90 days and serves as the initial step toward obtaining a residence permit in Luxembourg, which also functions as a work permit for salaried roles. The ATS ensures that applicants meet Luxembourg’s immigration criteria before entering the country.

How to Apply for a Luxembourg ATS

Indian nationals must apply for ATS from India through the Embassy of Luxembourg in New Delhi or its designated visa application center, VFS Global. The application is processed by the General Department of Immigration, and incomplete submissions may lead to delays or rejection.

Required Documents for Luxembourg ATS

The following required documents must be submitted:

• Valid Passport: A copy of your passport, valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay.
• Criminal Record or Affidavit: An extract from your criminal records or an affidavit from your country of residence.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV outlining your professional background.
• Diplomas and Qualifications: Copies of your educational and professional certificates.
• Employment Contracts: A signed contract compliant with Luxembourg labor law, dated and signed by both you and your employer.
• ADEM Certificate: An original certificate from the National Employment Agency (ADEM) authorizing your employer to hire a third-country national.
• Power of Attorney (if applicable): If someone else submits the application on your behalf.

Click here to get support to apply for Luxembourg ATS and Visa Package

Document Translation

All supporting documents must be in English, French, or German. If they are in another language, such as Hindi or another Indian language, they require translation by a sworn translator. A list of sworn translators is available at mj.gouvernement.lu.

Processing Time

The processing time for an ATS application is up to 4 months. If no response is received within this period, the application is considered denied, and you may need to reapply. Upon approval, the ATS is sent by post, valid for 90 days, during which you must apply for a long-stay visa.

Obtaining a Long-Stay Visa

As India is not exempt from visa requirements (see List of countries requiring a visa), Indian nationals must apply for a type D long-stay visa after receiving the ATS. This visa allows you to travel to Luxembourg for your intended purpose, such as work.

Types of Luxembourg Work Visa

Luxembourg offers several types of Luxembourg work visa, including:

• Work Visa for Employed Workers: For those with a job offer from a Luxembourg employer, the most common type for Indians.
• Work Visa for Self-Employed: For entrepreneurs or freelancers starting a business.
• Work Visa for Highly Skilled Professionals: For individuals with exceptional skills, often fast-tracked.
• Intra-Corporate Transferees: For employees transferred within a multinational company.

For Indians, the work visa for employed workers is the primary type, requiring an ATS and leading to a residence permit.

Required Documents for Type D Visa

The following required documents must be submitted:

• Valid Passport: Valid for at least three months after the visa’s expiry.
• The ATS document.
• Two recent passport-sized photos (35-40mm, taken within the last six months).
• Proof of health insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical expenses in Luxembourg.
• Proof of financial stability (e.g., bank statements from the last six months).
• A cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit and planned activities in Luxembourg.
• Proof of accommodation (e.g., rental agreement or hotel reservation).

Visa Fees

The visa fees for a type D long-stay visa are approximately €80. Additional service fees may apply when using VFS Global, such as INR 2112 for processing and INR 800 for courier services. Always verify the current fee with the Embassy of Luxembourg in New Delhi or VFS Global.

Processing Time

The processing time is typically 15-45 days, depending on the completeness of your application and additional checks required.

Entering Luxembourg and Applying for a Residence Permit

Once you have your type D visa, you can travel to Luxembourg. Within 90 days of arrival, you must complete the following steps to secure your residence permit, which also serves as your work permit for salaried roles:

Declaration of Arrival

Within 3 days of arrival, visit the administration of the commune where you will reside to declare your arrival. You will need:

• Your valid passport.
• The ATS document.
• Proof of accommodation (e.g., rental agreement or utility bill).

You will receive a copy of the declaration, which, along with your ATS, acts as a temporary authorization until your residence permit is issued. More details are available at Guichet.lu - Declaration of Arrival.

Medical Check

Before applying for the residence permit, you must undergo a medical examination and tuberculosis screening at an authorized medical center or the Health and Social Welfare League. Details are available at Guichet.lu - Medical Check.

Residence Permit Application

Apply for a residence permit at the General Department of Immigration, either online via MyGuichet.lu or by post. Required documents include:

• A copy of your valid passport.
• The ATS document.
• The declaration of arrival.
• Proof of housing in Luxembourg.
• A medical certificate.
• Payment of the residence permit fee (€80, payable to IBAN LU46 1111 2582 2814 0000, BIC: CCPLLULL).

You will also need to provide biometric data (photo and fingerprints) during an appointment, which can be booked at guichet.lu/rd.

Residence Permit Fees

The fee for the residence permit is €80.

Validity and Renewal

• The first residence permit is valid for up to one year, restricted to one profession and sector.
• After the first renewal, it can be extended for up to three years, allowing work in any sector or profession if you were employed during the initial period.
• Renewal applications must be submitted at least two months before expiry, with updated documents such as a valid employment contract, social security certificate, and criminal record.

Renewal and Long-Term Residence

To renew your residence permit, apply at least two months before it expires, providing updated supporting documents such as a valid employment contract, social security certificate, and criminal record. After five years of continuous lawful stay in Luxembourg, you may be eligible to apply for a long-term residence permit, which offers greater stability and flexibility. More information can be found at Guichet.lu - Long-Term Residence.

Additional Considerations

• Family Member: If you plan to bring a family member, they may require separate ATS and residence permit applications, depending on their circumstances. Consult the Embassy of Luxembourg for specific requirements.
• Short-Term Stays: For short-term stays up to 90 days, a short-stay visa (Schengen visa, costing €80) may suffice, but it does not permit paid work. For work-related stays, the ATS and long-stay visa are mandatory.
• Beware of Scams: The Embassy of Luxembourg warns against fraudulent websites and agents claiming to offer visas. Only use official channels like VFS Global or the embassy (contact: Newdelhi.Consulat@mae.etat.lu, +91-11-4998 6612, Mon-Fri, 12:00-13:00).
• Health Insurance: You must have health insurance covering at least €30,000 for your stay, and you’ll need to apply for Luxembourg’s health insurance system after arrival.

Living in Luxembourg

Once you have your residence permit, you can fully embrace life in Luxembourg. Here are some practical tips:

• Housing: Luxembourg’s housing market is competitive. Start looking for accommodation early, possibly through your employer or real estate agencies.
• Cost of Living: Luxembourg is one of the most expensive countries in Europe, but high salaries offset this. Budget for higher living costs, especially in urban areas.
• Language: While English is widely spoken, learning French or German can enhance your career and social integration.
• Culture: Luxembourg’s multicultural environment, with a significant expatriate community, offers numerous social clubs and events for newcomers.

Conclusion

Securing an Authorisation to Stay (ATS) and a residence permit in Luxembourg is a structured process that requires careful preparation. For Indian professionals, this involves applying for ATS, obtaining a type D long-stay visa, and securing a residence permit within 90 days of arrival. By ensuring all required documents are complete, translated by a sworn translator if necessary, and submitted through official channels like the Embassy of Luxembourg or VFS Global, you can successfully navigate this process. For the most current information, consult Guichet.lu, VFS Global, or the Embassy of Luxembourg in New Delhi.

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