Many immigrants consider Luxembourg to be a dream destination due to its robust economy and welcoming immigration policies. Foreign partners can live in Luxembourg legally with Luxembourg Spouse Visas, one of the most popular immigration routes. The purpose of this guide is to provide you with step-by-step instructions for obtaining a Luxembourg spouse visa through visa sponsorship.
What is a Luxembourg spouse visa?
A Luxembourg Spouse Visa is a type of family reunion residence permit. It enables the non-EU spouse of a legal resident or citizen in Luxembourg to live, work, and possibly study in the country. Governing by national immigration laws influenced by EU directives, it is part of Luxembourg’s commitment to family unity.
Who Can Apply for a Spouse Visa in Luxembourg?
Eligibility is strictly defined, and applicants must meet certain requirements:
- The sponsor must be a Luxembourg citizen or a legal resident with a long-term residence permit.
- Marriage must be legally recognized, with official documentation to prove it.
- The couple must demonstrate genuine cohabitation and intention to live together in Luxembourg.
- The spouse seeking immigration must not threaten public order or health.
Documents Required for a Luxembourg Spouse Visa
Gathering the right documents is crucial for a successful application. The required paperwork includes:
- A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Marriage certificate legalized or apostilled if issued outside the EU
- Proof of sponsoring partner’s residence in Luxembourg
- Proof of financial means to support the spouse
- Medical certificate issued by a Luxembourg doctor
- Police clearance certificate from the applicant’s country of residence
- Birth certificate
- Passport-sized photos in biometric format
- Proof of health insurance
How to Apply for a Spouse Visa in Luxembourg
Follow this step-by-step application process to ensure smooth submission:
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Step 1: Preliminary Ministry Authorization
Before making the visa application, the applicant must receive a temporary residence permit (autorisation de séjour) from the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.
Required Actions:
- Submit all documents through the sponsoring spouse
- Await a positive decision (processing can take 2–3 months.
Step 2: Apply for Type D Visa
Once the temporary authorization is approved, the applicant must apply for a long-stay Type D visa at the Luxembourgish embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
Step 3: Enter Luxembourg and Declare Arrival
Upon receiving the visa, the spouse must travel to Luxembourg and declare their arrival within three days to the local commune office.
Step 4: Medical Check-up
The applicant must undergo a mandatory medical examination and tuberculosis test at an approved medical center.
Step 5: Residence Permit Application
After the medical test results are approved, apply for the residence card (Titre de séjour) at the Immigration Directorate.
Processing Time for a Luxembourg spouse visa
Luxembourg spouse visa processing varies, but generally:
- Residence authorisation: 2 to 3 months
- Type D Visa: 2 to 4 weeks
- Residence permit: Issued within a few weeks after arrival and medical clearance
We recommend applying well in advance of travel.
Visa Fees and Costs Involved
- Temporary residence permit: Free
- Long-stay Type D visa: Approximately €50–€100
- Residence card issuance: Around €80
- Medical exams and insurance: Varies based on provider
Can You Work on a Luxembourg Spouse Visa?
Yes. One of the key advantages of this visa is the right to work. Once the residence permit is issued, the spouse can seek employment without requiring a separate work permit. This policy significantly improves integration.
Can You Study on a Spouse Visa?
Yes, spouse visa holders can enroll in academic or vocational training programs in Luxembourg. This flexibility makes it ideal for spouses wishing to pursue further education or improve their qualifications.
Spouse Visa Extension and Permanent Residency
A residence permit is valid for 1 year and is renewable. After 5 years of continuous legal residence, the spouse becomes eligible to apply for permanent residency in Luxembourg.
Pathway to Luxembourgish citizenship
After living in Luxembourg legally for at least 5 years, including integration courses and passing a Luxembourgish language test, the spouse can apply for naturalisation and become a Luxembourg citizen.
Common Reasons for Rejection and How to Avoid Them
To avoid delays or rejections, consider these common pitfalls:
- Incomplete documents
- False or forged marriage documents
- Insufficient financial proof
- Failure to prove a genuine relationship
We recommend consulting a professional if your case is complex or you have been denied a visa in the past.
Benefits of a Luxembourg spouse visa
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- Right to live and work freely
- Access to EU travel zones (Schengen Area)
- Family reunion rights
- Path to permanent residency and citizenship
- Access to world-class healthcare and education
Important Tips for Successful Applications
- Ensure all documents are translated into French, German, or English
- Submit certified true copies
- Keep multiple copies of every document
- Track your application regularly and respond promptly to queries
Conclusion
The Luxembourg Spouse Visa offers a strategic pathway for immigrants who wish to join their partners and build a life in one of the most stable, prosperous countries in the EU. By understanding the process, collecting all necessary documents, and following the required steps, you can successfully relocate to Luxembourg under a legally protected immigration framework.
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