Luxembourg Self Employed Visa
Set up your business in one of Europe’s wealthiest and most stable economies. Migrate Way guides non-EU professionals and founders through Luxembourg’s business licence and self-employed residence process, from first assessment to your residence permit.
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For Founders and Independent Professionals
Before you can legally work for yourself in Luxembourg, you must obtain a business licence, known as an authorisation d’Γ©tablissement, from the Ministry of the Economy. Once you hold it, you can apply for the temporary authorisation to stay that lets you live and work as a self-employed person.
If you have a clear business project, the right qualifications and the means to fund it, this route offers a base in a high-security financial centre at the heart of the EU.
Why Start a Business in Luxembourg?
A trusted economy, a multilingual market and a central place in the EU.
A Stable Financial Centre
Luxembourg’s stable legal environment and strong credit standing make it attractive for founders in finance, consulting and technology.
Flexible Company Structures
You can choose a standard private limited company, or a simplified version designed for individuals starting with less capital.
Central EU Location
Operate from the heart of Europe, next to Belgium, France and Germany, within the Schengen Area.
A Multilingual Market
French, German, English and Luxembourgish are widely used, which helps you serve clients across borders.
Family Reunification
Your spouse and children can usually apply to join you once you meet the resource and housing conditions.
Long-Term Prospects
After five years of legal residence, you may qualify for long-term residence, and later for citizenship, under the conditions that apply.
Do You Qualify? Key Requirements
The process has two connected stages: the business licence first, then the residence authorisation.
A Business Licence
You must obtain the authorisation d’Γ©tablissement from the Ministry of the Economy before starting your activity.
Qualifications and Integrity
Proof of the professional qualifications and experience your activity requires, together with a clean criminal record.
A Company and Business Address
A registered business entity and address in Luxembourg. A standard private limited company needs β¬12,000 in paid-up capital.
Sufficient Financial Means
Evidence of capital and resources to support your business and living costs, so you do not depend on social assistance.
A Realistic Business Plan
A plan that shows what you will do, who your clients will be and how the business will be viable.
Health Insurance
Valid health insurance and accommodation in Luxembourg for you and any family members applying with you.
Visa, Residence and Family
The process runs in sequence, so planning each step in advance saves time.
- First, the business licence from the Ministry of the Economy
- Then a temporary authorisation to stay, followed by a long-stay visa for entry
- After arrival, you declare your arrival and complete a medical examination
- The residence permit for self-employed workers is typically issued for up to three years
- Family reunification becomes possible once you meet the resource and housing conditions
How It Works
Five clear stages, with Migrate Way beside you at every one.
Authorisation and Legal Setup
We prepare your application for the business licence and draft the legal framework of your activity.
Incorporation and Capital
We coordinate the creation of your company and the deposit of your capital, and its registration in the Luxembourg business register.
Residence Authorisation
With your licence and company papers, we file your application for the temporary authorisation to stay with the Immigration Directorate.
Arrival and Biometrics
Once you arrive, we guide you through the declaration of arrival, the medical examination and your biometrics appointment.
Permit Issuance
The authorities issue your residence permit, which confirms your right to live and operate your business in Luxembourg.
What We Handle for You
Business immigration is detailed and unforgiving. We take the guesswork out of it.
Eligibility Assessment
An honest view of your chances before you spend money on fees.
Business Licence Support
Guidance on the licence application and supporting evidence.
Company Formation
Coordination with local advisers on your legal structure and capital.
Document Checklist
A tailored list of documents, apostilles and translations for you and your family.
Pre-Submission Review
A final check of your complete file to catch errors that cause delays.
Post-Arrival Support
Help with registration, insurance and settling in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to the questions we hear most about the Luxembourg self-employed visa.
Can my family join me on the Luxembourg entrepreneur visa?
Yes. Spouses and dependent children can generally apply for family reunification, as long as you can show sufficient resources and suitable housing. We review the requirements for your household.
How long does company registration in Luxembourg take?
Timelines depend on how quickly your business licence is granted and how complete your documents are. We give you a realistic estimate once we know your activity.
Is a physical office mandatory for my company?
You need a registered business address in Luxembourg, and the type of premises required depends on your activity. We advise on the right setup for your business.
Do I need to speak French, German or Luxembourgish?
Not for the application itself, but languages help greatly in business. Language requirements apply later if you apply for citizenship.
Can I get permanent residence?
After five years of legal residence, you may be able to apply for long-term residence if you meet the conditions. We can explain the long-term picture for your situation.
Which company type should I choose?
A standard private limited company needs β¬12,000 in capital, while a simplified version exists for individuals starting with less. The right choice depends on your activity and your plans, and we advise you on it.
Do you guarantee approval?
No one can. The final decision rests with the Luxembourg authorities. What we do is make sure your application is complete, accurate and well prepared, which gives you the strongest possible chance.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules, capital requirements and fees change, so details should always be confirmed before you apply. Photos via Unsplash: aimen denche and Anant Chandra.
Ready to Start Your Business in Luxembourg?
Tell us about your business and your plans, and we will let you know which route fits and what your next steps should be.