What social benefits are available in Luxembourg
One of the primary values of the European state is to take care of its citizens. It is the possibility of getting real help when you need it that makes the EU such an attractive place for expats. Luxembourg is no exception.
Child allowances
This is one of the largest and most important categories. In addition to the basic child benefit, there are maternity benefits, financial assistance for school preparation and others.
The maternity allowance
In Luxembourg, the maternity allowance amounts to 1,740.09 euros and is paid in three equal instalments of 580.03 euros each.
The allowance is available to both residents and non-residents. The application is made by a doctor during an examination. You have to apply to the Children's Future Fund (CAF).
Family allowance
Family Allowance is a social benefit paid to households to help them raise children by offsetting some of the financial costs involved. It is a monthly payment until the child is 6 years of age.
However, under certain conditions, parents may continue to receive the allowance for the period of their child's education. The maximum duration of the benefit is up to 25 years. To receive this type of benefit, you must apply to the Children's Future Fund (CAE).
Unemployment benefits
This is another major element of social protection in Luxembourg. The reasons for receiving this type of benefit can be different. For example, dismissed employees (aged between 16 and 64), self-employed persons who have ceased to work due to force majeure, young people who have completed their studies, and more.
The main condition for receiving this benefit is residency in Luxembourg. You must also hold a LuxTrust certificate and an individual identification number (eID). The National Employment Agency (ADEM) is responsible for unemployment benefits.
See our Knowledge Library article for details on how to get this type of financial support.
Disability benefits
People with disabilities are given special protection. They are not only entitled to financial benefits, but also to other forms of support: social assistance, legal advice, help in adapting to live in the community, and more.
For all types of assistance, contact the special body INFO-HANDICAP, which was created specifically to help people with disabilities.
Retirements
Every citizen who is 65 years of age or older can qualify for a pension. You must have at least 10 years (120 months) of contributions to a pension fund to qualify.
Usually your employer pays these contributions, but sometimes you have to pay them yourself, for example if you are self-employed.
Earlier retirement — from age 57 — is possible. To qualify, you must have paid contributions for 480 months or 40 years.
You must submit a claim to the Caisse Nationale d'Assurance Pension to receive your pension. This is usually done by your employer. However, you can do it yourself if you are applying for an early retirement pension or if you are self-employed.
Survivor's pension
A survivor's pension may be paid to the next of kin of an insured person who was receiving an old-age or disability pension. The following persons are eligible to receive this benefit:
- spouses and partners;
- divorced spouses and former partners, if they have not remarried;
- parents;
- children.
You should also apply through the Caisse Nationale d’Assurance Pension. There are different conditions for each category of applicant, which you can read in detail on the website.
Tuition allowance
It is issued to adults who are registered with the ADEM and who are looking for work. Another important condition is that the applicant must have been part of a vocational training course or be in training for a new occupation.
The applicant must also:
- have an attendance rate of at least 80%;
- not receiving other benefits, such as unemployment, maternity, pensions, etc.;
- provide ADEM with a valid bank account number and tax card.
No further action is required. ADEM will allocate an allowance of 365.45 euro per month, keeping track of the status and fulfilment of the conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What kind of social security benefits are available in Luxembourg?
In Luxembourg, you can receive various social benefits. The state provides financial support to all vulnerable groups: children, the disabled, pensioners, and the unemployed. There are also payments in case of illness or accident, but you need to have health insurance. Read more in our Knowledge Library.
How much does retirement pay in Luxembourg?
Benefits are based on years of service and contributions paid from each salary. The minimum pension is granted after 20 years of service and the full pension after 40 years of service.
Is it possible to receive unemployment benefits in Luxembourg?
Yes, you must submit an application to the National Employment Agency (ADEM). You will also need a LuxTrust certificate, an individual identification number (eID) and proof of residence in Luxembourg.
