How to obtain a visa to Luxembourg for Nigerian nationals
In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide on how to get a Luxembourg visa from Nigeria. We look in deep at the different visa types available, the necessary documentation, and the application process.
As a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, Luxembourg offers numerous advantages to its residents, including access to the EU job market, unrestricted movement within the EU, and a high standard of living. These factors make Luxembourg an enticing destination for both tourists and those seeking new opportunities. If you are a Nigerian citizen, obtaining a visa is a mandatory requirement to visit Luxembourg. The visa application process can be complex and challenging, especially for first-time applicants.
How many Nigerians live in Luxembourg?
Over the years, the Nigerian population in Luxembourg has steadily grown, reflecting an increasing interest and connection between the two countries. By 2023 the number of residents from Nigeria in Luxembourg has shown a nearly threefold increase in a decade.
However, when examining statistics on the countries with the highest immigration rates in Luxembourg, Nigeria finds itself at the bottom of the list. The 440 Nigerian residents in 2023 make up a relatively small percentage of the foreign population in Luxembourg. Portugal leads the list with 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 Luxembourg visas for Nigerian citizens
When it comes to obtaining a visa for Luxembourg from Nigeria, there are two main options based on the duration and nature of the stay: short-stay visas and long-stay visas. It's important to note that the process and types of Luxembourgish visas available for Nigerian 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
It is intended for purposes such as: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:
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.
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 Nigerian nationals
If your inquiry is how to immigrate to Luxembourg from Nigeria with plans to settle in the country for more than a year, either for study or work, it's crucial to understand that the process goes beyond obtaining a visa. While obtaining a long-stay visa (type D) is necessary, it is only the first step; the subsequent step involves obtaining 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 duration. There are several types of residence permits available, tailored to accommodate different purposes and activities that individuals may wish to pursue.
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 for Nigerians
Obtaining a short or long-stay visa or a residence permit for Luxembourg requires careful planning and adherence to a well-defined application process. In this section, we will guide you through the necessary steps to secure a visa for your visit. The process involves crucial considerations such as determining the purpose of entry, gathering the 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
Having a clear understanding of the purpose of your entry into Luxembourg is the first step in the visa application process. Different reasons for visiting Luxembourg entail specific visa types and corresponding application procedures. Let's explore the various grounds for entry and the appropriate visa types for each.
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
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 Nigerian 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 varies depending on whether you are applying for a C visa or a D visa. In either case, you'll need to visit the Embassy of Luxembourg or a diplomatic or consular representation of Luxembourg.
In Nigeria, as there is no Luxembourg Embassy, the Embassy of Belgium in Abuja serves as the diplomatic representation for Luxembourg, where you will need to submit your visa application.
Please schedule your appointment via e-Appointment!
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
To apply for a C visa, schedule an appointment at the Embassy of Belgium in Abuja, which acts as the diplomatic representative for Luxembourg in Nigeria. Ensure that the appointment is scheduled at least 15 days before your planned visit and no more than 6 months before its commencement. On the appointment day, personally bring all the 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 Nigeria?
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 for Nigerians
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 Nigeria. 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 depending on your personal situation.
| Type of visa | Fee in euros | Fee in naira |
| Short-stay visa (C) | 90 euros | ~ 143,847 |
| Long-stay visa (D) | 50 euros | ~ 79,915 |
| Visa for children between the age of 6 and 12 | 45 euros | ~ 71,923 |
| 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 Nigerian 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 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)
Where do I apply for a Luxembourg visa in Nigeria?
To apply for a Luxembourg visa in Nigeria, visit the Embassy of Belgium in Abuja, which manages Luxembourg visa applications. Another option is TLS Contact, an intermediary service that can assist and support you throughout the application process, providing guidance and ensuring all requirements are met for a successful application.
What documents do I need to submit for a Luxembourg visa application?
Can I apply for a residence permit directly, or is a visa required first?
Typically, for a long-term stay, you begin by applying for a long-stay visa (type D). After arriving in Luxembourg, you can then apply for a residence permit based on your specific circumstances and intentions.
Can I appeal if my visa application is rejected?
How can I demonstrate my intent to return to Nigeria?
Clearly demonstrate your intent to return to Nigeria in your visa application, especially for long-stay visas. Showcase strong ties such as family connections or employment commitments, reinforcing your commitment to returning after your stay in Luxembourg.
Source: statistiques.public.lu, guichet.public.lu, visas-be.tlscontact.com, visareservation.com
We took photos from these sources: Tope A. Asokere and uncoveredlens Eze Joshua for Pexels, self-creation with data from statistiques.public.lu
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