How to obtain a visa to Luxembourg for Ghanaian nationals
If you are a Ghanaian national, you will need a mandatory visa to visit Luxembourg, and obtaining one can be a complex and difficult process. Navigating the intricate requirements, paperwork and procedures can be overwhelming, especially for first-time applicants. In this article, we will present a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a visa for Luxembourg from Ghana.
Luxembourg stands out as an attractive destination for living, working, or studying, drawing increasing numbers of people each year. However, immigration patterns vary, and nationals from different countries worldwide immigrate to the Grand Duchy to different extents. Ghana is among the countries with lower representation, both in terms of the total population and the foreign population.
How many Ghanaians live in Luxembourg?
Before we jump into the bureaucracy and visa procedures, we’ll examine the scene and address some interesting questions, such as how many Ghanaian citizens live in Luxembourg, how many arrive each year, and why.
Although the Ghanaian population in Luxembourg is small, comprising only 63 individuals, this number has steadily increased since 2014 when there were only 16 Ghanaians. The population has quadrupled since then. However, it's worth noting a significant reduction in population from 2013 to 2014 when there were 77 Ghanaians in the country. With the increase in the Ghanaian population since that decline, the number of Ghanaians has nearly reached the 2013 level.
Another interesting data point to analyze, besides the absolute number of Ghanaians in the country, is how many arrive to live each year and their main reasons. In the past year, only 14 Ghanaians relocated to Luxembourg, with 5 for family reasons, another five for studies, and four for work.
Total population
In terms of the percentage of the Ghanaian population, it's very small, representing only 0.01% of the total population and 0.02% of the foreign population in Luxembourg. In fact, the African population in Luxembourg as a whole is minimal. The majority of the foreign population in Luxembourg originates from the European Union. Portugal leads the list with an impressive figure of 92,101 citizens, followed by France with 49,104 citizens, Italy with 24,676 citizens, Belgium with 24,676 citizens, and Germany with 12,678 citizens.
Types of Luxembourg visas for Ghanaian citizens
When obtaining a Luxembourg visa from Ghana, there are two main options based on the duration and nature of the stay: short-stay visas and long-stay visas. Additionally, depending on the purpose of the trip to Luxembourg, it may be necessary to apply for a residence permit. We'll also address this point by looking at when it's necessary to apply for it and the types of residence permits available.
It's important to note that the types of Luxembourg visas available for Ghanaian citizens, as well as the procedures for obtaining them, are the same as those for any non-European foreigner.
Official government site
You can find more information about short and long-stay visas on the government's dedicated page at guichet.lu.
Short-stay visas for Luxembourg
Those intending to enter the country for a brief period should apply for a short-stay visa, also known as a type C visa. This visa allows transit or stays in Luxembourg and the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within 180 days.
Long stay visas for Luxembourg
Individuals planning to stay in Luxembourg for more than three months must apply for a long-stay visa, also known as a type D visa. In many cases, this visa is a necessary preliminary step for those aiming to become residents in Luxembourg.
Long-stay visa is intended for
- 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.
Work permit
Before applying for a D visa, you must request a work permit from the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.
Luxembourg Residence permits for Ghana nationals
If your question is how to migrate to Luxembourg from Ghana because your plans include settling in the country for more than a year, either for studying or working, it's necessary to consider that the procedure goes beyond obtaining a visa. While obtaining a long-stay visa (type D visa) is necessary, this is only the first step; obtaining a residence permit is also required.
Unlike a visa, a residence permit grants individuals the right to reside and carry out specific activities in Luxembourg for a longer period. There are many types of residence permits according to the type of activities intended in Luxembourg and the family relationships of those applying for residence. Some situations or entry motives associated with a specific residence permit include:
What is a titre de sejour?
Unlike a visa, a residence permit grants individuals the right to reside and engage in specific activities in Luxembourg for a more extended period. There are various types of residence permits based on the activities individuals plan to undertake in Luxembourg and their family relationships.
Some of the situations that have attached a specific resident permit or have a specific procedure include:
Each residence permit has its own set of requirements and procedures for application. These may include demonstrating specific qualifications, providing proof of employment or sponsorship, showing sufficient financial means, and adhering to the necessary documentation and administrative procedures.
Check our relocation guide for salaried workers
Application process for Luxembourg visa from Ghana
If you are wondering, how can I apply for a Luxembourg visa in Ghana, this section will answer your questions. We will guide you through the necessary steps to determine which type of visa you need and how to apply for it. The process involves crucial considerations such as deciding on the purpose of entry, gathering necessary documents, and finally submitting your visa application, so let's look at each step in more detail.
Decide on the grounds for entry
Clarifying the purpose of your entry into Luxembourg is the first step in the visa application process. There are different reasons for visiting Luxembourg, each requiring a specific type of visa and corresponding application procedures.
Tourist or family visits
Business entry to Luxembourg
Employment in Luxembourg as ground
Study related entry
Family reunification as entry ground
Private reasons as ground for entry
Collect the documents
Before proceeding with the visa application process, it's essential to ensure you have all the necessary documents in order. Collecting the required documents is a crucial step to demonstrate your eligibility and purpose of travel to Luxembourg. While the specific documents may vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances, there are general documents that are commonly required for most visa applications.
Below is a comprehensive list of the Luxembourg visa requirements for Ghanian citizens; however, it's important to note that additional documents may be necessary depending on the specific nature of your case. Ensure thoroughness in assembling the following documents to strengthen your application and facilitate a smooth processing experience.
Piece of advice
Depending on the type of visa, especially for short-term tourist visas, you may need to show a travel itinerary. Although there is the option of getting the airline ticket, this option is certainly a risky bet, as you are not sure of many things, including whether you will get visa approval. So, instead of emptying your pocket on buying an actual ticket, a generally accepted option is to submit a flight itinerary reservation.
Apply for necessary papers to stay in Luxembourg
The application process differs depending on whether you're applying for a C visa or a D visa. In both cases, you'll need to visit the Luxembourg Embassy.
But unfortunately, there is no Luxembourg Embassy in Ghana. You'll need to contact the Royal Netherlands Embassy in Accra, which serves as the diplomatic representation of Luxembourg.
The website of the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs provides a list of all Luxembourg embassies worldwide.
Applicaiton for a C visa
You must request an appointment at the Royal Netherlands Embassy in Accra, which diplomatically represents Luxembourg in Ghana. Please note that the appointment date must be at least 15 days before the planned visit and no more than 6 months before its commencement. On the day of the appointment, you'll need to personally bring all required documents and submit your application.
Application for a D visa
The process consists of two steps. First, you will need to apply for a temporary authorisation to stay, then submit a long-stay D visa application, when you are granted the approval of your stay from the Ministry.
You need to contact the Immigration Directorate of the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and apply for a temporary authorization stay. The process and documents required will depend on the activities you intend to do in Luxembourg.
This application is divided into three steps.
How long does it take to get a Luxembourg visa from Ghana?
Question of time
Applications for a Short-stay C visa are typically resolved within 15 days from the date of filing.
In Luxembourg, the processing time for short-stay C visas is normally completed within 15 days from the date of application. However, in certain circumstances, the process can take up to 30 or even 45 days.
On the other hand, the time taken to obtain a long-stay D visa in Luxembourg varies depending on the nature of the activities planned in the country. The processing time for these visas is determined accordingly.
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 the smooth processing of your application.
How much it costs to get a visa to Luxembourg?
Finally, let's address a crucial detail: the Luxembourg visa price in Ghana. The following table outlines the costs according to the type of visa. The cost of the visa will be determined based on the fees you need to pay in order to get it. A standard consular fee varies depending on the personal situation and status.
Besides, you will need to translate necessary documents, pay for the photos, and other visa-related expenses, but these costs are usually depending on your personal situation.
| Type of visa | Fee in EUR | Fee in GHS |
| Short-stay visa (C) | 90 | ~ 1,459 |
| Long-stay visa (D) | 50 | ~ 810 |
| Visa for children between the age of 6 and 12 | 45 | ~ 729 |
| 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 |
Prices have changed
In June 2024, the fee for a Schengen visa increased. The revenue generated from visa applications will be reinvested to provide more resources, including staff, to process visa applications. This should reduce the waiting time for a Schengen visa appointment.
Application for a residence permit in Luxembourg for Ghana citizens
If you plan to stay in Luxembourg for an extended period, you'll likely need to apply for a residence permit in addition to the long-stay D visa. This process involves three additional steps.
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).
Keep the receipt
Upon submission, you'll receive a copy of the declaration as confirmation. You will need to send it with your package of documents for the Residence Permit.
The next step is to undergo a medical examination promptly, which comprises two tests:
Upon receiving the results, the Health Inspection of the Ministry of Health will issue a medical certificate and send it to the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs for the residence permit application approval.
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 will be required:
- Copy of the passport;
- Copy of the visa;
- Copy of the declaration of arrical, issued by the commune office;
- Proof of suitable accommodation, such as a lease agreement, property deed, or other relevant documents;
- Proof of a 80 euros fee payment to the account IBAN LU46 1111 2582 2814 0000 (BIC: CCPLLULL, beneficiary: Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Immigration Department; communication: residence permit for...).
What happens after application?
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 card.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What documents are required to apply for a Luxembourg visa from Ghana?
Generally, the required documents include a completed visa application form, a valid passport, passport-sized photographs, proof of travel insurance, proof of accommodation in Luxembourg, a detailed itinerary of your trip, proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses, and a letter explaining the purpose of your visit. Additional documents may be required based on the type of visa you are applying for and your specific circumstances.
How much does it cost to obtain a visa to Luxembourg for Ghanaian nationals?
Can I apply for a long-term visa or residency permit as a Ghanaian national?
Yes, Ghanaian nationals can apply for long-term visas (type D) or residency permits if they intend to stay in Luxembourg for an extended period. However, specific requirements and eligibility criteria must be met, such as having a valid reason for the extended stay, sufficient financial means, and possibly a job offer or enrollment in an educational institution.
Can I appeal if my visa application is rejected?
Do I need to provide proof of accommodation and financial means for my visa application?
Yes, providing proof of accommodation and financial means is usually required as part of the visa application process. This helps demonstrate that you have the means to support yourself during your stay in Luxembourg and that you have suitable accommodation arrangements. Proof may include hotel reservations, a letter of invitation from a host, bank statements, or sponsorship letters, depending on your situation and the type of visa you are applying for.
Source: statistiques.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, mae.gouvernement.lu, www.netherlandsandyou.nl, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, guichet.public.lu
We took photos from these sources: Virgyl Sowah on Unsplash, self-made graphs with information from statistiques.public.lu
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