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How to obtain a visa to Luxembourg for Dubaians
Luxembourg is not a typical destination for emigrants from the United Arab Emirates, with at most one person moving to the Grand Duchy each year, some years, none at all. If you’re from Dubai and considering a move to Luxembourg, this could be your chance to change the trend. Although the process might seem complex, understanding the requirements and steps makes immigrating to Luxembourg much simpler than it first appears. In this guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know about obtaining a visa for Luxembourg from Dubai.
Luxembourg is a highly cosmopolitan country, with nearly half its population coming from abroad. Despite this international diversity, the number of residents from the UAE remains very small. As of early 2024, only seven people from the UAE were living in Luxembourg.
How many Emiratis live in Luxembourg?
Where do Emiratis typically migrate, how many live in Luxembourg, and how does their immigration pattern compare to other nationalities? In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the migration trends of Emiratis to help answer these questions.
Most common destinations for Emiratis
According to the latest data from the United Nations, by mid-2020, there were approximately 203,214 emigrants from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which accounts for 2.05% of the UAE’s population. This is a relatively low emigration rate, placing the country at 135th out of 232 countries in terms of emigrant populations. Most UAE emigrants tend to move to countries like India (18.93%), Kuwait (13.17%), and Canada (11.13%). Luxembourg, on the other hand, appears near the bottom of the list, with very few Emiratis choosing it as a destination.
203,214
Emirati emigrants as of mid-2020
18.93%
of Emirati emigrants move to India
13.17%
of Emirati emigrants move to Kuwait
11.13%
of Emirati emigrants move to Canada
Emirati Population in Luxembourg
As of January 1, 2024, only 7 Emirati citizens lived in Luxembourg. Over the years, the number of Emiratis in the country has gradually increased, peaking at 11 in 2023. However, in the last year, the number has notably declined.
As of January 1, 2024, only 7 Emirati citizens lived in Luxembourg. Over the years, the number of Emiratis in the country has gradually increased, peaking at 11 in 2023. However, in the last year, the number has notably declined.
In addition to the total number of Emiratis living in Luxembourg, it's important to examine how many arrive each year and their reasons for moving. Annual immigration from the UAE to Luxembourg is extremely low, with a maximum of one person arriving per year, and for some years, no one comes at all. An exception occurred in 2021 when three Emiratis arrived in a single year. The reasons are sometimes for family reasons and sometimes for work, and it is worth noting that since 2008 no one from the UAE has moved to Luxembourg for educational purposes.
7
Emirati citizens living in Luxembourg as of January 1, 2024
11
Emiratis, the highest number ever recorded in Luxembourg in 2023
2
Emirati citizens living in Luxembourg as of January 1, 2017
0
Emiratis have migrated to Luxembourg for educational purposes since 2008
Percentages and Comparisons with Other Nationalities
In terms of percentage, the Emirati population in Luxembourg is minuscule. Emiratis represent just 0.001% of the country’s total population and only 0.002% of the foreign population. Luxembourg’s foreign population is predominantly composed of European Union citizens, with large communities from Portugal, France, and Italy.
Even within the broader category of Asian immigrants, Emiratis rank near the bottom, far behind other nationalities such as Indians, Chinese, Syrians, and Turks who top the list.
0.001%
of Luxembourg’s total population is Emirati
0.002%
of Luxembourg’s foreign population is Emirati
90,915
people made up the Portuguese community in Luxembourg in 2024
49,234
people made up the French community in Luxembourg in 2024
Types of Luxembourg visas for Emiratis
If you’re planning to obtain a visa to Luxembourg from Dubai, it’s important to understand the types of visas available and which one you may need. While there are various types of visas for entering the European Union, not all of them are relevant for Emirati citizens.
For entry into the EU, the main visa types are transit visas (Type A), short-term visas (Type C), and long-term visas (Type D). However, since May 6, 2015, Emirati citizens no longer need a visa to enter Schengen states, including Luxembourg, for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. However, for visits of more than 6 months, it is necessary to apply for a long-stay visa (type D), and in case of stays longer than one year, it is also necessary to apply for a residence permit.
Official government site
You can find more information about short and long-stay visas on the government's dedicated page at guichet.lu.
Long stay visas for Luxembourg
If you wish to stay in Luxembourg for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa, also known as a Type D visa. Emirati nationals who plan to become residents of Luxembourg must apply for this visa as part of the immigration process. This visa is intended for individuals who:
- Holders of a temporary residence permit.
- Holders of a work permit for paid employment.
- Those who are going to join a family member who is an EU citizen.
- Those who want to carry out any other type of activities such as self-employed work, studies, research, or sports activities.
Those wishing to work in Luxembourg should bear in mind that, before applying for a visa, it is essential to have an employment contract and a document authorizing the employer to hire a foreigner. We will go into these details in more detail later.
The specific requirements for a Luxembourg Type D visa vary depending on the purpose of your stay, whether it’s for work, study, family reasons, or other activities. We will explore the specific requirements later in this guide.
Luxembourg Residence permits for Dubaians
If you plan to live in Luxembourg for more than a year, the process goes beyond simply obtaining a visa. While getting a long-stay visa (Type D) is a crucial step, you will also need to apply for a residence permit.
Unlike a visa, a residence permit grants individuals the right to reside and engage in specific activities in Luxembourg for a longer period. There are many types of residence permits based on the intended activities and family relationships of the applicants. Below are the different types of permits classified by categories:
Classification
| Field | Visa type |
| Work-related | Highly qualified workers |
| Employed workers | |
| Seasonal workers | |
| Athletes or coaches | |
| Researchers | |
| Au pair workers | |
| Posted salaried workers | |
| Transferred salaried workers | |
| Business-related and self-employed or voluntary work | Investors |
| Self-employed workers | |
| Volunteer workers | |
| Studies | Students |
| Students in an exchange program | |
| Internship for students | |
| Private and family reasons | Family members of third-country nationals |
| Private reasons |
Each residence permit comes with its own set of requirements and application procedures. These can include providing proof of specific qualifications, employment documentation, and demonstrating sufficient financial means. It’s important to carefully review the requirements for the residence permit you are seeking and follow the application process thoroughly to ensure a smooth immigration experience.
Check our relocation guide for salaried workers
Process for applying for a Luxembourg visa from Dubai
As mentioned earlier, Emirati citizens do not need a visa to visit Luxembourg for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business. However, for longer stays, a visa is required, and the process demands careful planning. Below, we’ll guide you through the steps needed to determine if you need a visa and how to apply for it successfully.
Determine the Type of Visa You Need
Determining the reason for your entry into Luxembourg is the first step in the visa application process. There are several possible grounds for entering the country, and whether you need a visa depends on the purpose and duration of your stay. Let’s explore this in more detail:
Tourist or family visits
For stays of less than 3 months, such as for tourism, Emirati citizens do not need a visa. However, for visits longer than 3 months, like extended family visits, a long-stay visa (Type D) is required.
Business entry to Luxembourg
For business-related activities such as meetings or contract negotiations, no visa is needed if the stay is under 90 days. For longer business-related stays, a visa will be necessary.
Employment in Luxembourg as ground
If you're moving from Dubai to Luxembourg for employment, you will need a Type D visa, regardless of the duration of your work. This visa allows stays of up to one year and grants legal work rights in Luxembourg. For stays longer than a year, you’ll also need a residence permit. This visa applies to various types of workers, including employees, self-employed individuals, highly qualified workers, posted employees, researchers, professional athletes, and au pairs.
Study related entry
For studying in Luxembourg, a Type D visa is required. If your studies exceed one year, you must also apply for a student residence permit. Special procedures apply to students between 14 and 21 years old who wish to participate in an exchange program of more than three months, as well as to students wishing to enter Luxembourg for internships.
Family reunification as entry ground
Family reunification refers to the right of individuals to family life, which is found in Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights. Like many other European countries, Luxembourg applies European policy. This means that Luxembourg residents have the right to apply for visas for their close family members, such as spouses, minor children, or parents, for family reunification. It's also important to consider that family reunification has different conditions depending on the status of the "main migrant" to whom the various family members seeking reunification will be linked.
Private reasons as ground for entry
Private reasons serve as grounds for entry in special cases, complementing the aforementioned categories. As an Emirati citizen, you can enter Luxembourg for private reasons when financially self-sufficient or when having stable personal or family ties in Luxembourg but not meeting the conditions for family reunification. In this case, a D visa must be applied for, along with a residence permit if intending to stay for more than a year.
Understand what documents are required
If your stay in Luxembourg will exceed 90 days, and you need to apply for a visa to visit Luxembourg from Dubai, it's crucial to understand the documents and requirements for a successful application. Below, we’ll outline the general documents you’ll need, as well as specific requirements for various types of visas. It’s important to note that additional documentation may be required based on your specific circumstances and the type of visa you are applying for.
In most cases, the following documents are usually required:
Documents required
Collect the necessary documents and check them out.
*The mandatory items are marked with red asterisks.
2 application forms
Fully completed copies of the Schengen visa application form
2 photos
Recent and identical passport photos
No criminal record certificate
A criminal record extract or an affidavit issued in Dubai
Passport
Must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay
Proof of sufficient financial means
To cover your stay in Luxembourg or a financial statement of support from a reference person in Luxembourg.
Proof of legal residence
Proof of legal residence in the UAE or, if you are an Emirati citizen living elsewhere, proof of legal residence in your country of residence
Health insurance
Covering the travel period
Other supporting documents associated with the purpose of the journey
Proof of enrollment in a recognized educational institution, an official letter of invitation for a business visit, an employment contract, a round-trip air ticket, or a flight itinerary reservation.
Documents required
Collect the necessary documents and check them out.
*The mandatory items are marked with red asterisks.
In addition, other supporting documents related to the purpose of the trip may be required, which may include some of the following:
For work visas:
- An employment contract with an employer in Luxembourg. For highly qualified workers, the contract must have a minimum duration of one year, and the annual gross salary must be at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary or 1.2 times for specific professions.
- Certificate issued by the Employment Development Agency (ADEM) authorizing the employer to hire a third-country national. This certificate must be obtained by the employer from ADEM 3 weeks after filing the declaration of vacancy and the employer should forward it to you to attach it to your visa application.
- Copies of educational degrees or professional qualifications
- A curriculum vitae.
If you are wondering how to get a job in Luxembourg from Dubai and are starting to worry, don't rush, we have something to help you. We know this can be a complicated task and we have created multiple guides about employment in Luxembourg, these will help you to understand the local job market and will facilitate your search, we recommend you take a look at them.
For researcher visas:
- A pre-signed hosting agreement with an accredited research organization.
- A detailed undertaking of financial responsibility for the researcher's stay and return, issued by the research organization after signing the hosting agreement.
For self-employed people:
- A business and a financing plan.
- Proof of economic resources to carry out the business project.
- In the case of a takeover of a business, the balance sheets and profit and loss accounts for the past three financial years.
- If the self-employed activity requires an establishment permit, the opinion issued by the Ministry of Economy regarding the issuance of an establishment permit must be provided.
- If the activity is subject to other authorizations, approvals, or registrations, a copy of the authorization or registration/approval, or an agreement in principle from the competent authority is necessary.
For investors:
Interested individuals must choose one of the following four investment options, present their project or proof of investment to the Ministry of Economy or the Ministry of Finance, and obtain a favorable response.
- A minimum of 500,000 euros (about 2,042,835 Emirati Dirhams as of mid-September 2024) In an existing Luxembourgish company (engaged in commercial, industrial, or craft activities).
- A minimum of 500,000 euros in a new Luxembourgish company (engaged in commercial, industrial, or craft activities).
- A minimum of 3 million euros (about 12,256,905 Emirati Dirhams as of mid-September 2024) in an existing or new investment or management structure, with its registered office in Luxembourg.
- A minimum of 20 million euros (about 81,712,703 Emirati Dirhams as of mid-September 2024) through a deposit in a financial institution established in Luxembourg.
For young au pairs:
- An identity document showing that you are at least 18 years old and less than 30 years old.
- A written approval from the minister responsible for youth.
- A qualification entitling you to higher education in the EAU or proof that you have attended school at least until the age of 17.
- Proof of basic knowledge of the languages spoken by the host family, as well as English or one of the country's three administrative languages (German, French, or Luxembourgish).
- A medical certificate established less than 3 months before the intended arrival date, proves that you can perform simple routine family tasks, including childcare.
- An au pair host contract with an approved host family.
For student visas:
- Proof of full-time admission to a higher education institution in Luxembourg.
- Adequate financial resources for living in Luxembourg, equivalent to at least 80% of the current social inclusion income which currently stands at 1,201 euros per month. This means having at least 860.8 euros per month, approximately 3,517 Emirati Dirhams as of mid-September 2024.
- An attestation of health insurance covering health risks in Luxembourg.
- Parental authorization if the student is under 18.
For family reunification:
- Proof that the sponsor has sufficient resources to support himself and his family members, reaching the minimum social wage for unskilled workers over 12 months.
- Proof that the sponsor has suitable accommodation on Luxembourg territory where the surface area must not be less than 12 m² for the first occupant and 9 m² for each additional occupant.
- Proof of health insurance coverage for the sponsor and their family members.
For private reasons:
- Proof of suitable housing in Luxembourg.
- Proof of comprehensive health insurance valid in Luxembourg.
- A document certifying the applicant's marital status and family situation issued by the authorities of the EAU.
- Proof of sufficient resources established by a guarantor residing in Luxembourg amounting to at least the social inclusion income.
Meet the requirements
Let's continue with the visa requirements for Luxembourg from Dubai. Knowing the necessary documents is one thing, but getting the documents is another story. To get some of these documents it is not enough to request them in an office or press a button on the computer. In some cases, getting these documents requires planning and extensive work, two of the most common cases are the requirements for study and work visas. Here, we will focus on helping you meet the main requirements for these two visa types.
For those planning to study in Luxembourg, two critical requirements involve careful planning:
University Enrollment
The first requirement is to obtain enrollment in a Luxembourg university. Upon acceptance, the university will issue an admission letter, which must be included with your visa application, along with other required documents detailed in the next section.
Financial Means
Students must demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves. Currently, this requires having at least 80% of Luxembourg's minimum social welfare income, equating to approximately 860.8 euros per month, or about 3,517 Emirati Dirhams as of mid-September 2024. If you still do not have the necessary resources do not think it is an impossible mission, start thinking and looking for alternatives to see how you can get the funds.
How to obtain a student visa in Luxembourg
Read articleFor those seeking employment in Luxembourg, securing a job is a prerequisite before applying for a visa. Here's a detailed guide on how to get a job in Luxembourg from the EAU to help you navigate the process:
Research the job market
Investigate Luxembourg's job market to identify industries and companies hiring. A great help at this point is our guides on different professions and business sectors in Luxembourg, take a look at them.
Identify opportunities
Create a list of preferred companies and positions that align with your skills and interests.
Prepare your CV
Develop an updated CV tailored to European standards. Highlight relevant skills, work experience, and achievements. For detailed guidance on crafting a suitable CV for job applications, refer to our article on how to write a proper resume. You can also explore the Europass CV template and the dedicated website at europa.eu, where some interactive tools allow you to create your own CV.
Write a cover letter
Customize cover letters for each application, emphasizing why you are a suitable candidate for the specific role.
Network
Utilize professional networks like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field, even if you don’t know them. Introduce yourself clearly and explain why you are reaching out, for sure people will be happy to help you.
Job search
Explore job opportunities on international job portals such as EURES, EuroJobs, ExpatJobs, Indeed, and local portals like Jobs.lu, Moovijob, Monster.lu, and Luxembourg's National Employment Agency (ADEM).
Apply and follow up
Send your applications through job portals or directly on company websites. And don't forget that it's not enough to send applications everywhere, you need to follow up on your applications by sending polite emails to show your interest or by calling companies directly.
Prepare for interviews
Research the company and practice responses to common interview questions. Interviews typically occur in person, over the phone, or via video conference. If requested for an in-person interview and you're not physically in Luxembourg, explain your situation; most employers will propose a phone or video interview.
Evaluate job offers and negotiate terms
If everything went well so far and you get a job offer, evaluate it, considering the salary, benefits, and working conditions. If necessary, negotiate the terms of the offer before accepting it.
ADEM Authorization
Finally, before you can apply for the visa you will need an additional document, which you must request from your future employer, a certificate issued by Luxembourg's National Employment Agency (ADEM) authorizing the employer to hire a national of a non-European country.
If you want help finding a job, you can turn to ADEM for job listings and career support, while recruitment agencies like Adecco and Randstad specialize in matching candidates with roles. Online platforms such as Jobs.lu and Moovijob.com offer extensive job listings. Networking through online professional groups and industry-specific forums and connecting with Luxembourg-based professionals on LinkedIn can also provide valuable insights and potential job leads. In addition, expatriate communities on Facebook can offer resources and provide help or information about opportunities.
To work effectively in Luxembourg, proficiency in French, German, or Luxembourgish is usually needed, along with English. French is the predominant language in business and administration, followed by Luxembourgish for local contexts. German is also widely used, particularly in the financial sector. English is commonly spoken in international business settings.
Work visas in Luxembourg
Read articleApply for Temporary Authorization to Stay
Once you’ve gathered all the required documents and ensured you meet the visa criteria, the next step before applying for the visa is to obtain temporary authorization to stay. This involves contacting the Immigration Directorate of the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs to apply for temporary authorization.
The process and required documents vary based on your intended activities in Luxembourg. You can find specific information for various situations, such as highly qualified workers, employed workers, seasonal workers, self-employed workers, athletes or coaches, family members of third-country nationals, private reasons, students, internships for students, researchers, volunteers, au pair workers, and investors, through the provided links.
Submit Your Application
The process for applying for a visa to Luxembourg involves four key steps:
Schedule an Appointment
The first step is to schedule an appointment at the Luxembourg Embassy in Abu Dhabi.
- Phone : (+971) (0) 2 207 9999
- Mail: abudhabi.amb@mae.etat.lu
- Website: abudhabi.mae.lu
If you reside in another country, you should go to the Luxembourg embassy in that country. The Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs website has a list of all Luxembourg embassies worldwide.
It's important to note that you should only book an appointment once you have received your temporary authorization to stay, and the appointment must be within 90 days of receiving this authorization.
Attend the Appointment
On the day of your appointment, you must bring all necessary documents, including your temporary authorization to stay. At the appointment, you will submit your application, provide your biometric data (fingerprints and photos), and pay the visa fee. Make sure to bring the correct amount and check the payment methods accepted by the consulate.
Wait for Processing
Generally, visa applications are processed within 15 days from the date of submission. However, in special cases that require further examination, the process may take up to 30 days. In exceptional circumstances, if additional documents are needed, the processing time can extend up to 45 days.
Collect Your Visa
Once a decision has been made on your visa application, you will be notified and need to collect your passport from the embassy where you applied. If your visa is approved, it will be affixed to one of the pages of your passport.
Country entry and residency application
Once your Type D visa is approved, it’s time to travel to Luxembourg. It's crucial to be aware of customs regulations and take necessary precautions before your journey. Additionally, upon arrival in Luxembourg, you must continue the immigration process by completing further formalities. Here’s a detailed look at what you need to do:S
Entry into the country: precautions and customs regulations
To avoid unpleasant surprises upon entering Luxembourg, it's useful to be familiar with some rules regarding the importation of goods.
Upon entering Luxembourg, certain items such as personal effects may benefit from customs allowances and are not subject to duties or taxes. However, other goods must be declared at customs, and corresponding duties and taxes must be paid.
The following items can be imported without declaration or taxation, provided that the limits set by the European Union are respected:
Tobacco Products (One of the following):
- 200 cigarettes.
- 100 cigarillos.
- 50 cigars.
- 250 grams of tobacco.
Alcoholic Drinks (One of the following):
- 1 liter exceeding 22% alcohol volume.
- 2 liters up to 22% alcohol volume.
And both of the following:
- 4 liters of still wine.
- 16 liters of beer.
Personal Items of Non-Commercial Nature Worth Up To:
- 430 euros when traveling by air or sea.
- 300 euros when traveling by land.
- 150 euros for travelers under 15 years of age.
Regarding cash, there are no restrictions on the importation of currency in the EU. However, funds exceeding 10,000 euros or its equivalent in other currencies must be declared to customs authorities.
Carry out the necessary formalities after entering Luxembourg
Once you have entered Luxembourg, there are essential formalities to complete to ensure your stay is legally recognized. These steps include making a declaration of arrival and undergoing a medical examination.
Arrival Declaration
Within 3 days of arriving in Luxembourg, you must submit an arrival declaration to the municipal authorities of your residence. Required documents include:
- A valid ID (passport, visa, or residence permit issued by another EU member state)
- The long-stay visa
- A proof of address (such as a lease agreement or utility bill)
Upon submission, you'll receive a receipt as confirmation.
Medical Examination
The next step is to undergo a medical examination promptly, which comprises two tests:
- A medical examination conducted by a general practitioner in Luxembourg.
- A tuberculosis screening conducted by a medical analysis laboratory. To undergo this test, you need a prescription from the doctor who performed the medical examination.
Upon receiving the results, the Health Inspection of the Ministry of Health will issue a medical certificate sent to the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs for the residence permit application.
Apply for the residence permit
If you plan to stay in Luxembourg for more than one year, in addition to applying for the long-stay D visa, making the arrival declaration, and undergoing the medical examination, you'll need to apply for a residence permit.
The application for a residence permit must be submitted within 3 months of arriving in Luxembourg to the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs. This can be done online through MyGuichet.lu or by mail by sending the residence permit application form to the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.
In both cases, the following documents must be attached:
- Copy of the passport.
- Copy of the visa.
- Copy of the arrival declaration issued by the municipal administration.
- Proof of suitable accommodation, such as a lease agreement, property deed, or other relevant documents.
- Proof of an 80 euros fee payment (approximately 327 Emirati Dirhams as of mid-September 2024) to the account IBAN LU46 1111 2582 2814 0000 (BIC: CCPLLULL, beneficiary: Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Immigration Department; communication: residence permit for...).
Upon approval, the applicant will receive a letter inviting them to schedule an appointment at the Immigration Department for a photo session and fingerprinting, which will be incorporated into the residence permit.
A few days after providing biometric data, the applicant will receive a notice to personally collect their residence permit at the Immigration Department.
How long does it take to obtain a Luxembourg visa from Dubai?
If you have already applied for a visa, you will probably want to look for flights from Dubai to Luxembourg, but be patient, do not buy them until your visa is accepted.
The processing time for a Luxembourg visa varies based on the activities you intend to undertake in Luxembourg. The most influential aspect of the processing duration is obtaining temporary stay authorization. The Immigration Directorate has different response times depending on the type of visa requested.
Below are the processing times for common visa types:
| Field | Visa type | Deadline (months) |
| Work-related | Highly qualified workers | 4 |
| Employed workers | 3 | |
| Seasonal workers | 4 | |
| Athletes or coaches | 3 | |
| Researchers | 4 | |
| Au pair workers | 2 | |
| Business-related and self-employed or voluntary work | Investors | 3 |
| Self-employed workers | 3 | |
| Volunteer workers | 2 | |
| Studies | Students | 2 |
| Students in an exchange program | 3 | |
| Internship for students | 2 | |
| Private and family reasons | Family members of third-country nationals | 9 |
| Private reasons | 3 |
How much does it cost to get a Luxembourg visa from Dubai?
Finally, let's address an essential detail: the cost of a Luxembourg visa. The following table outlines the fees according to the type of visa.
Visa types
| Visa | EUR | AED (Approx.) |
| Long-stay visa (D) | 50 euros | 204 |
| Visa for children between the ages of 6 and 12 | 40 euros | 164 |
| Visa for children under 6 years of age and visas for pupils, students, and teachers accompanying them on school trips or educational study trips. | Free | Free |
| Visa for researchers going abroad to carry out scientific research. | Free | Free |
| Visa for representatives of non-profit making organizations aged 25 years at most who participate in seminars, conferences, or sports, cultural or educational events. | Free | Free |
| Visa for family members of an EU/EEA national | Free | Free |
How to avoid rejection and what to do in case of rejection
Understanding common reasons for visa rejections and knowing how to address them is crucial to ensure a smooth application process. In the following sections, we'll explore typical grounds for visa denial and guide you on what steps to take in case of rejection.
Common reasons for visa rejection
Here are some key reasons why a visa application might be rejected. Take a careful look at these points to ensure smooth processing of your application:
Unclear purpose of visit
Clearly detail the purpose of your trip to Luxembourg by adding a letter to your documents explaining the reason for your visit.
Insufficient financial evidence
Make sure to meet the financial requirements specified for your visa type and provide ample proof of funds.
Unreliable or fake travel documents
Always submit genuine documents from reputable sources to avoid any doubts about the reliability of your travel papers.
Inadequate travel insurance coverage
Ensure your travel insurance covers a minimum of 30,000 euros, including medical repatriation, urgent medical care, and emergency hospital treatment, and is valid for the Schengen Area.
Lack of sufficient evidence of intent to return
Lack of sufficient evidence of intent to return: Depending on the visa type, demonstrate your plans to return to the EAU. This may not be necessary for long-stay visas, especially if you have an indefinite job offer in Luxembourg. Showcase ties to the EAU, such as family relationships or employment connections, to evidence your intent to return.
Human errors
Mistakes can occur. If you believe there has been an error in the decision, consider appealing the decision.
Show all
What to do if your visa got rejected unlawfully?
If your visa application is rejected, you can appeal the decision to the Administrative Tribunal. The appeal must be filed by a lawyer within 3 months from the notification of the resolution. You can find more information on how to proceed with this process on the government's dedicated page at guichet.lu.
Duration and renewal of visas and residence permits
To conclude, this section addresses an important topic: the duration and renewal procedures for residence permits. We will look at this case by case.
Long-Stay Visas
Long-stay visas (type D) are valid from 90 days to a maximum of one year. Those wishing to stay in Luxembourg for a longer period should consider applying for a residence permit rather than thinking about renewing the visa from the beginning.
Residence Permits
The duration and renewal conditions for residence permits vary depending on the type of permit. However, the application process is the same as for the initial application. The application must be submitted to the Directorate of Immigration within two months before the residence permit expiration date. The procedure can be done online via MyGuichet.lu or by mail by sending the residence permit application form to the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.
Below you will find details on the duration and documents required to renew three of the most common types of permits: study permit, salaried worker permit, and self-employed worker permit. However, before detailing each permit, we will mention some documents that are required for all renewal applications, regardless of the type of residence permit:
Required documents
Something's missing
Make sure you have all the documents
*The mandatory items are marked with red asterisks.
A copy of your passport
A recent extract from the Luxembourg criminal record
Proof of payment of an 80-euro fee to IBAN account LU46 1111 2582 2814 0000 (BIC: CCPLLULL, beneficiary: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Affairs, Directorate of Immigration; communication: residence permit for ...).
Something's missing
Make sure you have all the documents
*The mandatory items are marked with red asterisks.
Residence permit for salaried workers
The first residence permit for salaried workers is valid for one year for a single occupation with any employer and in a single sector. From the first renewal, the residence permit is renewable for up to 3 years, granting access to any sector and profession. However, if you cannot demonstrate that you have worked during the permit's validity period or if the permit is renewed during a period of unemployment benefits, the residence permit will be renewed for a maximum of one year. The renewal application must include the common documents mentioned previously, plus:
- A copy of the employment contract
- A recent certificate of affiliation detailing all affiliations with Luxembourg Social Security
Residence Permit for self-employed workers
The residence permit for self-employed workers is valid for up to 3 years and is renewable for another maximum period of 3 years, provided the conditions for obtaining it are still met. The renewal application must include the common documents mentioned previously, plus:
- Supporting documents justifying that you still satisfy the conditions of access to the profession such as a business permit.
- Recent certificates of affiliation detailing all affiliations of the self-employed and any employees with Luxembourg social security.
- A copy of the personal income tax return for the previous year, proving it was duly filed
- A copy of the VAT return proving it was duly filed
Student residence permit
The student residence permit is valid for one year or the duration of the course if it is shorter. The renewal application must include the common documents mentioned previously, plus:
- Proof of enrollment in a higher education institution.
- Proof of sufficient resources to cover living expenses and return costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do Emirati citizens need a visa to visit Luxembourg for short stays?
No, Emirati citizens do not need a visa to visit Luxembourg for short stays of up to 90 days, as the UAE is part of the visa waiver agreement with the Schengen Area. This applies to tourism, business trips, or family visits. However, the stay must not exceed 90 days within 180 days.
What type of visa do I need for a stay longer than 90 days in Luxembourg?
For stays longer than 90 days, Emirati citizens must apply for a long-stay visa, also known as a Type D visa. This visa is required for purposes such as work, study, family reunification, or long-term stays. Depending on the purpose of your visit, additional documentation and temporary authorization to stay may be needed.
How can I extend my stay in Luxembourg beyond the initial visa period?
If you wish to stay in Luxembourg beyond the validity of your initial visa, you must apply for a residence permit before your visa expires. This application must be submitted to the Luxembourg authorities and requires documentation specific to the purpose of your stay, such as work or study. Keep in mind that overstaying without proper authorization can lead to penalties and future visa restrictions.
Can I apply for a visa online, or do I need to visit the embassy in person?
Visa applications for Luxembourg cannot be completed entirely online. You need to book an appointment at the Luxembourg Embassy, such as the one in Abu Dhabi, and submit your documents in person. During your appointment, you’ll also provide biometric data (fingerprints and photos) and pay the required visa fees.
What should I do if my Luxembourg visa application is rejected?
If your visa application is rejected, you will receive a notification explaining the reasons for the refusal. You have the right to appeal the decision within a specified timeframe, usually 30 days. It’s important to review the reasons for rejection and provide any missing documents or information in your appeal. You may also consider consulting legal assistance if needed.
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Source: datosmacro.expansion.com, www.un.org, statistiques.public.lu, mae.gouvernement.lu, mae.gouvernement.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, france-visas.gouv.fr
We took photos from these sources: Birger Strahl on Unsplash, self-made graphs with information from statistiques.public.lu and Eurostat
Authors: Luz
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