Moving to Luxembourg means embarking on a new personal and professional adventure. Attracted by employment opportunities, purchasing power and quality of life, the Grand Duchy is attracting more and more European and International expatriates. As of 1st January 2024, 672,050 people live in Luxembourg, 47.3% of which are foreign residents (Source: An open and cosmopolitan society – Luxembourg). Behind this apparent success lies a complex journey, meticulous preparation, a good understanding of the administrative procedures and a genuine ability to adapt. Seeking local support, particularly from relocation agencies, makes the transition easier at every stage.
Preparing and planning for your move abroad: project, procedures & support
Before taking the plunge, take the time to evaluate your entire project. Why do you want to leave? In which sector would you like to work? How do you plan to organise your professional and family life once you arrive? These questions are essential to ensure that your undertaking is realistic.
Once you have clarified your motivations, it is important to find out about how the job market works, the administrative procedures involved, the recognition of qualifications and the specific features of the education system. This preparation will enable you to structure your relocation effectively and avoid potential obstacles when you settle in.
Finally, before you leave, remember to gather all the essential documents: employment contract, qualifications, birth certificate, proof of insurance, and check whether a visa is required. Thorough preparation will make it easier for you to adapt to life Luxembourg.
Settling in and successfully completing your first steps in your new home: accommodation, formalities, schooling, insurance
Upon arrival in Luxembourg, you will need to find accommodation quickly. The property market is competitive and properties are snapped up quickly. Be proactive and well informed. To give yourself the best chance of success, prepare a strong application (supporting documents, guarantor, deposit) and then contact several agencies.
Even if they are not compulsory, it’s a good idea to find out about home and health insurance. At the same time, don’t forget to set up your utility accounts (gas, electricity, water), internet and a bank account.
Good to know: Suitable for expatriates, Foyer’s ‘mozaïk’ home insurance covers property damage (fire, theft, water damage) and offers multilingual assistance. It includes essential cover that can be tailored to your needs (civil liability, leisure items, portable property, etc.).
For families, it is advisable to find out as early as possible about available places in nurseries and schools. Luxembourg offers a range of options: multilingual, international, Luxembourgish and European. Enrolment procedures are usually carried out at the establishments themselves or at the local town hall.
Sustainable integration: language, employment, local life and networking
Successful integration requires proficiency in the languages used on a daily basis. Luxembourg has three main languages. French remains the main language, but English dominates in finance. Proficiency in Luxembourgish remains essential for administration and certain public sector positions.
Online platforms such as LLO.LU and the National Language Institute offer subsidised training courses to facilitate learning.
Professionally, the Luxembourg market offers real opportunities. Among the 523,129 workers, 170 nationalities are represented and 75% of the workforce is foreign (source: An open and cosmopolitan society – Luxembourg). To facilitate integration, ADEM centralises job offers and supports candidates in their search, particularly new arrivals.
To get the most out of your move, it is essential that you get involved in local social and cultural life. Joining expatriate networks, attending community events or participating in community activities are all opportunities to make connections and better understand your new environment. Taking part in language cafés, for example, facilitates language learning while providing opportunities for enriching encounters and exchanges.
Relocation agencies: key support for a stress-free move
Given the complexity and diversity of the procedures involved, using a relocation agency in Luxembourg is an invaluable solution. These specialists support expatriates at every stage of the process: project preparation, logistical organisation, social integration, access to insurance and much more.
Their in-depth knowledge of local conditions, professional network and ability to offer tailor-made services simplify formalities, overcoming obstacles and ensuring a smooth relocation for expatriates and their families.
Among our trusted partners, European Relocation Services and LuxRelo stand out for their expertise in the field and their personalised support. Based in Luxembourg, these relocation agencies guide companies and individuals through every stage of their expatriation, for a smooth transition.
Moving to Luxembourg requires planning, a methodical approach and support. By carefully structuring each step and drawing on the expertise of local specialists such as relocation agencies, anyone can make a successful transition and thrive in Luxembourg in the long term.
The three key takeaways:
- Luxembourg is an attractive country. It offers many opportunities for expatriates.
- Preparing your project well makes the expatriation process easier.
- Support from a relocation agency makes your integration safer and simpler.
