Moving to Luxembourg from the UK: How to Do It

Choosing Where to Live in Luxembourg

Luxembourg, despite being one of Europe's smallest countries, offers distinct regions and communities to consider when relocating. Your choice of location will significantly impact your experience, from daily commutes to community integration.

Luxembourg City, the capital, hosts most international companies and institutions, making it the natural choice for many professionals. The city divides into distinct quarters, each with its own character. Kirchberg houses European institutions and financial companies, while Grund and Clausen offer historic charm with modern amenities. The city centre provides excellent facilities but comes with premium property costs.

Outside the capital, consider areas like:

• Strassen and Bertrange (western suburbs with good family amenities)
• Hesperange (southern area with excellent transport links)
• Walferdange (northern area with more space and greenery)
• Esch-sur-Alzette (second-largest city with growing university campus)
• Echternach (eastern town near the German border with historical appeal)

Key location considerations include:

• Commute times (traffic congestion is significant)
• Public transport connections
• School proximity if relevant
• Property costs and availability
• Language prevalence in the area
• Cross-border options in France, Belgium or Germany

Visa and Residency Requirements

Post-Brexit, UK citizens need appropriate permissions to live in Luxembourg. Visit the Official Luxembourg Government Portal for detailed information about visa categories and application processes.

For stays beyond 90 days, you'll need to apply for:

• A long-stay D-type visa before arrival
• A residence permit once in Luxembourg

Common residence permit categories include:

• Employee permits (requires job contract)
• Self-employed/business permits
• Family reunification permits
• Researcher/highly qualified professional permits
• Financial independence permits

Documentation typically required:

• Valid passport (validity extending at least 6 months)
• Birth and marriage certificates (apostilled)
• Criminal record check from the UK
• Proof of accommodation in Luxembourg
• Financial resources evidence
• Health insurance coverage
• Work contract or business plan
• Qualification certificates

Most applications require submission to the Luxembourg embassy in London before arrival, with processing times of 3-4 months common.

Finding Accommodation

Luxembourg's property market ranks among Europe's most expensive, particularly in Luxembourg City. Start your search early through reputable sites like AtHome or engage a relocation specialist.

Renting in Luxembourg involves understanding several local practices:

• Rental properties are categorised as furnished (meublé) or unfurnished (non-meublé)
• Standard leases run for 2-3 years but can be negotiated
• Deposits typically range from 2-3 months' rent
• Agency fees usually equal one month's rent plus VAT
• Utility costs are often additional to the stated rent

When viewing properties, assess:

• Heating system type and efficiency
• Included appliances and fixtures
• Parking arrangements
• Storage space
• Building maintenance fees (charges communes)
• Internet connectivity options
• Noise levels at different times

Required documentation for renting typically includes:

• Employment contract or proof of income
• Recent pay slips (typically showing income 3x monthly rent)
• Bank statements
• Passport copies
• Previous landlord references
• Guarantee arrangements if needed

Healthcare Arrangements

Luxembourg boasts an excellent healthcare system, consistently ranking among Europe's best. As a resident, you'll participate in the national health insurance system (CNS - Caisse Nationale de Santé).

Initial healthcare steps include:

• Obtaining private comprehensive insurance for your visa application
• Registering with CNS once employment begins
• Choosing a general practitioner (médecin généraliste)
• Understanding the reimbursement system
• Registering with local hospitals

The Luxembourg healthcare system operates on a reimbursement model - you pay upfront for most services and submit claims for reimbursement (typically 80-90% of costs). Many residents also purchase complementary insurance (assurance complémentaire) to cover the remaining portion.

Healthcare documentation to prepare:

• Complete medical history translation
• Vaccination records
• Prescription information
• Specialist treatment records
• Dental records

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Employment and Work Permits

The Luxembourg job market offers opportunities in finance, EU institutions, technology, and professional services. Language skills significantly impact job prospects, with many positions requiring French, German, or Luxembourgish in addition to English.

Work permit processing integrates with residence permit applications. Key employment considerations include:

• Job contract requirements
• Professional qualification recognition
• Salary expectations
• Social security contributions
• Working culture differences

Luxembourg's multilingual environment may require certification of language skills. The Lifelong Learning Portal offers resources for language and professional development.

Financial Setup in Luxembourg

Luxembourg's sophisticated banking sector makes financial setup relatively straightforward, though more documentation is required post-Brexit. Major banks like BGL BNP Paribas, Banque et Caisse d'Épargne de l'État (BCEE), and ING offer comprehensive services with English-speaking staff.

Opening a bank account ideally begins before arriving, as many initial expenses require local bank transfers. Some banks offer remote account opening for UK citizens with job contracts in Luxembourg, though you'll need to visit in person to complete the setup process.

Essential banking requirements include:

• Valid passport
• Luxembourg residence permit or certificate
• Proof of address in Luxembourg
• Employment contract
• Tax residence documentation
• Source of funds evidence
• Reference letter from UK bank (helpful but not always required)

Consider these factors when choosing your bank:

• Account maintenance fees
• International transfer costs
• Investment options
• Mobile banking capabilities
• Branch network convenience
• Credit facilities availability
• Multi-currency account options

Tax Considerations

Luxembourg's tax system differs significantly from the UK and requires careful understanding. While the headline tax rates appear high, various deductions often reduce effective rates substantially. The Luxembourg Tax Authority provides comprehensive information about tax obligations.

As a new resident, you'll need to:

• Obtain a tax identification number
• Understand tax class assignment
• Learn annual declaration requirements
• Review double taxation agreements with the UK
• Consider cross-border implications if living near borders

Key tax considerations include:

• Progressive income tax rates (up to 42%)
• Municipal business tax
• Social security contributions (approximately 11% for employees)
• Wealth tax exemptions
• Tax deductions for housing, insurance, and dependents
• Tax card (fiche de retenue d'impôt) requirements

Many expatriates engage tax professionals during their first year to ensure compliance and optimise deductions.

Moving Your Belongings

Relocating possessions to Luxembourg requires careful planning, especially post-Brexit. As a third-country national moving to an EU state, you'll need specific documentation to import personal effects duty-free.

The logistics of moving depend on your household size and specific requirements. Luxembourg's central location makes road transport from the UK feasible, typically taking 2-3 days door-to-door.

Essential moving documentation includes:

• Comprehensive inventory in English and French
• Transfer of residence documentation
• Proof of address in Luxembourg
• Residence permit or visa
• Employment contract
• Signed declaration that items are for personal use
• Value declaration for high-value items

Consider these factors when planning your move:

• Timing relative to your arrival
• Temporary storage needs
• Insurance coverage levels
• Specialist items requiring custom handling
• Restricted or prohibited items
• Vehicle importation requirements if applicable

Registration and Administrative Procedures

Upon arrival in Luxembourg, several registration procedures require attention within specific timeframes. The sequencing of these registrations is important, as some processes depend on completion of others.

Your first step involves declaration of arrival (déclaration d'arrivée) at your local communal administration (commune) within three days of arrival. This initiates your official residence in Luxembourg and enables subsequent registrations.

Essential registration processes include:

• Commune registration with address documentation
• Social security enrollment
• Tax office registration
• Vehicle registration if applicable
• Pet registration if relevant

Required documentation typically includes:

• Valid passport with visa/residence permit
• Proof of address (rental contract or property deed)
• Employment contract
• Passport photos
• Birth/marriage certificates where relevant
• Health insurance evidence

Setting Up Your Home

Establishing utilities and services in Luxembourg is generally efficient but requires understanding local providers and practices. Most utility companies offer English-language support, particularly in Luxembourg City and surrounding areas.

Essential services to arrange include:

• Electricity (providers include Enovos and LEO)
• Natural gas if applicable
• Water services (typically through your commune)
• Internet and television (POST, Tango, or Luxembourg Online)
• Mobile phone service
• Waste collection registration

When establishing services, you'll typically need:

• Proof of address and identification
• Luxembourg bank account for direct debits
• Previous meter readings
• Deposit payment in some cases
• Contract details understanding

Internet services in Luxembourg offer excellent speed and reliability, with fiber connections widely available in urban areas. Setup typically takes 1-2 weeks, so consider temporary solutions during your initial arrival period.

Transport and Mobility

Luxembourg offers exceptional public transport, which has been completely free throughout the country since March 2020 - the first nation in the world to implement such a policy. This complements the country's focus on sustainable mobility and helps offset traffic congestion issues.

The public transport network integrates buses, trains, and the new tram system in Luxembourg City. The Mobilité Luxembourg website provides comprehensive journey planning across all transport modes. Despite excellent public transport, many residents still rely on cars, particularly those living in rural areas or commuting across borders.

Key transport considerations include:

• Public transport routes and frequency
• Cross-border transport options
• Cycling infrastructure and bike-sharing schemes
• Car sharing services availability
• Parking availability and costs
• Electric vehicle charging infrastructure

If bringing your vehicle from the UK, you must register it in Luxembourg within six months of establishing residency. This process requires:

• Technical inspection at the National Society for Technical Control (SNCT)
• Registration with the National Society for Automotive Traffic (SNCA)
• Vehicle customs clearance
• Luxembourg insurance policy
• Payment of registration tax
• Modification of headlights for continental driving

Language and Communication

Luxembourg's multilingual environment presents both challenges and opportunities. The country has three official languages: Luxembourgish (the national language), French (used for legislation), and German (common in media). English is widely spoken in business, particularly in the financial sector and international companies.

Learning basic Luxembourgish demonstrates integration commitment and is appreciated in daily interactions. French proves most useful for administrative matters and daily life, while German helps with broader cultural integration. The National Institute for Languages offers courses in all national languages.

Language considerations include:

• Official document languages (primarily French)
• Professional environment language requirements
• Community integration language needs
• Language learning resources and courses
• Translation services for essential documents
• Schooling language options for children

Many communes offer subsidised language courses for new residents, and some employers provide language training as part of relocation packages.

Climate and Seasonal Preparations

Luxembourg's climate resembles that of southern UK but with more pronounced seasons - colder winters and warmer summers. Preparing properly for seasonal changes ensures comfort throughout the year.

Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, with occasional snowfall requiring appropriate clothing and home preparations. Summers can be surprisingly warm, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 30°C.

Seasonal preparations include:

• Home heating system understanding
• Appropriate clothing for all seasons
• Vehicle winter tire requirements (mandatory by law)
• Insulation and draft prevention
• Summer cooling strategies
• Emergency supplies for extreme weather

Understanding energy efficiency becomes particularly important given Luxembourg's relatively high utility costs. Many buildings feature modern energy-saving technologies, but older properties may require additional measures to maintain comfort efficiently.

Social Integration and Community

Building a social network proves essential for successful integration into Luxembourg life. The country's international character means numerous opportunities exist for connecting with both locals and fellow expatriates.

Luxembourg City hosts a particularly diverse international community, with organised groups catering to various interests and nationalities. The Meetup platform offers numerous special interest groups, while the British Ladies Club provides activities and support specifically for UK expatriates.

Social integration opportunities include:

• Professional networking events
• Sports clubs and fitness centers
• Cultural associations and activities
• Language exchange groups
• Volunteer opportunities
• Parent groups if relocating with children

Luxembourgish culture values privacy and reserve, so building relationships may take time. Participation in local festivals and community events helps establish connections beyond the expatriate bubble.

Making Your Move with Deliver1

Ready to start your Luxembourg journey? Deliver1 specialises in UK to Luxembourg relocations, offering comprehensive services tailored to this unique destination. Our expertise ensures your transition proceeds smoothly, with support available throughout your move.

Our Luxembourg relocation services include:

• Detailed pre-move consultation
• Custom packing solutions for all household sizes
• Specialised handling for valuable or delicate items
• Door-to-door delivery with customs handling
• Vehicle transportation if required
• Storage options in both UK and Luxembourg
• Insurance coverage for complete peace of mind
• Bilingual support throughout the moving process

Contact our Luxembourg relocation specialists at for a personalised quote and comprehensive support. We understand the unique challenges of moving to Luxembourg and provide the expertise needed to ensure a successful relocation.