How to obtain a visa to Luxembourg for Pakistani nationals

How many Pakistanis live in Luxembourg?

Over the years, the Pakistani population in Luxembourg has experienced consistent growth, reflecting the increasing interest and connection between the two countries. Over a decade, their number has grown and shown a remarkable six-fold increase.

However, when examining statistics on the countries with the highest immigration in Luxembourg, Pakistan finds itself at the lower end of the list, with just 550 residents in 2023. This figure pales in comparison to other nationalities, with Portugal leading the chart at an impressive 92,101 citizens, followed by France with 49,104, Italy with 24,676, Belgium with 24,676, and Germany with 12,678.

Types of visas available for Pakistanis

When it comes to obtaining a visa for Luxembourg, Pakistan citizens have two main options based on the duration and nature of their stay: short-stay visas and long-stay visas. It's essential to note that the process and types of Luxembourg visas for Pakistani citizens are the same as for any non-European foreigner.

In the following sections, we will examine each visa type in detail, starting with short-stay visas covering visits for tourism, business, or family purposes. Subsequently, we'll explore long-stay visas designed for those seeking employment, studies, or extended stays in Luxembourg. Additionally, we'll discuss residence permits, crucial for individuals planning to settle in Luxembourg for over a year.

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.

It is intended for purposes such as:

• Tourist or family visits.
• Participation in conferences, trade fairs, or exhibitions.
• Business travel (visiting business partners, negotiating, and concluding contracts, etc.)
• Participation in boards of directors and general meetings.
• Provision of services within the same group of companies.

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. 

This visa is intended for particular people:

• 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.

Luxembourg Residence Permits for Pakistani nationals

For those interested in immigrating to Luxembourg from Pakistan for stays longer than a year, whether for studying or working, it's crucial to understand that the process goes beyond obtaining a visa. While obtaining a long-stay visa (type D visa) is necessary, it is only the initial step; a residence permit is also required.

Unlike a visa, a residence permit grants individuals the right to reside and engage in specific activities in Luxembourg for a longer duration. There are several types of residence permits available, tailored to accommodate different purposes and activities that individuals may wish to pursue.

Some of the situations that have attached a specific resident permit or have a specific procedure include:

• Highly qualified workers
• Employed workers
• Seasonal workers
• Self-employed workers
• Athletes or coaches
• Family members of third-country nationals
• Private reasons
• Students
• Internship for students
• Researchers
• Volunteers
• Au pair workers
• Investors

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.

Relocation

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Check our relocation guide for salaried workers

Application process

Securing a short or long-stay visa or a residence permit for Luxembourg demands careful planning and adherence to a well-defined application process. In this section, we will guide you through the necessary steps to obtain a visa for your visit. The process involves crucial considerations such as determining the purpose of entry, gathering required documents, and ultimately submitting your visa application. Let's take a look at each step in more detail.

Decide on the grounds for entry

Clearly identifying the purpose of your entry into Luxembourg marks the initial step in the visa application process. Different motives for visiting Luxembourg entail specific visa types and corresponding application procedures.

Below are the possible grounds for entry and the suitable visa types for each.

Collect the documents

Preparing for a successful visa application to Luxembourg involves the meticulous collection of essential documents that substantiate the purpose and legitimacy of your visit. This crucial step demands attention to detail and compliance with specific requirements outlined by Luxembourg's immigration authorities.

Below is a comprehensive list of the Luxembourg visa requirements for Pakistani 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.

Documents for visa application for Pakistanis to Luxembourg

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

International passport

Must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay

Proof of accommodation

Either at a friend's or relative's home, rent or at a hotel

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

In the country of origin or, if you are a Nigerian citizen living in another country, proof of legal residence in the country where you reside.

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.

Apply for a visa

The application process varies depending on whether you are applying for a C visa or a D visa. In both cases, however, you will need to visit the Luxembourg Embassy. Unfortunately, there is no Luxembourg Embassy in Pakistan, requiring applicants to travel to the Embassy of Luxembourg in Beijing, China.

For those residing in another country, it is essential to approach the Luxembourg Embassy in their country of residence. The Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Luxembourg's website provides a comprehensive list of all Luxembourgish embassies worldwide.

Applicaiton for a C visa

You should ask for an appointment in the Luxembourg embassy of your residence country keeping in mind that the appointment day should be at least 15 days before the intended visit and no more than 6 months before the start of the planned visit. On the day of your appointment, you should bring in person all the required documents and submit your application.

Application for a D visa

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.

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.

Information on popular situations regarding the temporary authorisation to stay application in Luxembourg:

After receiving the temporary authorization to stay within 90 days you must go to the Luxembourg embassy of your residence country and ask for an appointment, on the day of your appointment you should bring in person the temporary authorization to stay and all the required documents to submit your application.

How long it takes to get a Schengen visa for Pakistanis?

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.

How much it costs to get a visa to Luxembourg?

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. You can find all the information in the table below.

Besides, you will need to translate necessary documents, pay for the photos, and other visa-related expenses, but these costs are depending on your personal situation. Overall, be ready to spend around 200-300 euros for your documents.