Internship Legislation and Student Visa in Luxembourg
Luxembourg, the heart of Europe, is not just a financial hub but also a land of opportunities for students and young professionals. Luxembourg boasts a multicultural environment, with a blend of French, German, and Luxembourgish influences. Its strategic location in Europe makes it a hotspot for international businesses and institutions. For students, this means exposure to a global network and a chance to work with some of the world’s leading companies.
Explore boundless opportunities: access expert knowledge about internship regulations and student visa requests in Luxembourg. Piktalent offers current information on the topic. If you’re an EU-citizen or Non-EU citizen considering an internship in this Grand Duchy, here’s what you need to know.
EU citizens
If you’re an EU-citizen who has just arrived in this picturesque Grand Duchy, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you settle in smoothly:
1. Eligibility and Requirements for internship in Luxembourg:
- Proof of EU Citizenship: A valid passport or national ID card is essential.
- Internship Agreement: A signed agreement between you, the employer, and your educational institution (if applicable) detailing the internship’s terms, duration, and objectives.
- Duration: Internships typically last between 3 to 6 months, but this can vary based on the employer and the nature of the internship.
- Language Proficiency: While many internships might be conducted in English, proficiency in French, German, or Luxembourgish can be advantageous.
2. Registration and Residency:
- Commune Registration: Within 8 days of your arrival, register at the local commune. This is a mandatory step for anyone planning to stay in Luxembourg for more than 3 months.
- Residency Certificate for EU Nationals: After registering, you’ll receive this certificate, which confirms your right to reside in Luxembourg.
3. Social Security and Health Coverage:
- Registration with CCSS: Interns are considered as employees and should be affiliated with the Joint Social Security Centre (CCSS).
- Health Insurance: Once registered with CCSS, you’ll be covered by the national health insurance. Ensure you have your social security card when visiting healthcare professionals.
4. Work Rights and Regulations:
- Work Hours: Interns typically work 40 hours per week, but this can vary based on the sector and company.
- Remuneration: While some internships are unpaid, many offer a stipend or allowance. Ensure this is clarified in your internship agreement.
- Holidays: Interns are usually entitled to statutory public holidays and may also receive vacation days proportional to their internship duration.
5. Ending the Internship:
- Feedback and Evaluation: Most employers conduct a final evaluation. This is an opportunity to receive feedback and discuss potential future opportunities.
- De-registration: If you’re leaving Luxembourg after your internship, remember to de-register from the local commune and any other relevant institutions.
Non-EU citizens
Luxembourg, a melting pot of cultures and a hub of international business, beckons young talents from around the world. If you’re a non-EU citizen aspiring to intern in this European jewel, here’s your roadmap to a successful journey.
Luxembourg, being a prominent member of the European Union, has specific visa regulations for non-EU/EEA nationals wishing to undertake internships within its borders. Here’s a general overview:
Eligibility and Requirements:
- Internship Agreement: Secure a formal internship offer from a Luxembourg-based company or organization. This agreement should detail the internship’s objectives, duration, and terms.
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay and preferably for a few months beyond.
- Duration: While internships can vary, they typically span 3 to 12 months.
- Language Proficiency: Though many organizations operate in English, proficiency in French, German, or Luxembourgish can give you an edge.
Visa and Residency Permit:
1. Short-Stay Visa (Type C):
- Duration: For internships lasting up to 90 days.
- Application: Depending on the applicant’s nationality, a Schengen short-stay visa might be required. This visa allows travel across the Schengen Area.
- Documents: Proof of internship agreement, travel insurance, accommodation proof, and financial means are typically required.
2. National Visa (Type D) for Internships:
- Duration: For internships exceeding 90 days.
- Temporary Authorization to Stay: Before applying for a Type D visa, non-EU/EEA nationals usually need to obtain a temporary authorization to stay from the Luxembourg Immigration Directorate. This document outlines the approval for the intended stay, post which the actual visa application can be initiated.
- Documents: Along with the standard set of documents (like passport, photos, and health insurance), the applicant needs to provide the internship agreement, proof of accommodation in Luxembourg, and evidence of sufficient financial means.
3. Residence Permit for Interns:
- Post-Arrival: Once the non-EU/EEA national arrives in Luxembourg with a valid Type D visa, they must apply for a residence permit for interns. This permit validates their extended stay for the internship duration.
- Documents: Proof of residence, health check (if applicable), and the original internship agreement are among the required documents.
4. EU/EEA Nationals:
- Simplified Process: EU/EEA nationals don’t require a visa to undertake internships in Luxembourg. However, if the internship exceeds 90 days, they need to register with their local commune and obtain a registration certificate.
We recommend checking the official websites of the Immigration Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs in Luxembourg or consulting the Luxembourg consulates in your country for the most updated and accurate information.
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Frequently Asked Questions
EU citizens need a valid passport or ID, a signed internship agreement, and may benefit from proficiency in French, German, or Luxembourgish. Internships usually last 3-6 months.
Register at the local commune within 8 days. After registration, you’ll receive a Residency Certificate confirming your stay.
Interns must register with the Joint Social Security Centre (CCSS) and will be covered by national health insurance.
Interns typically work 40 hours weekly. Some internships offer stipends, and interns get statutory public holidays and proportional vacation days.
They need a formal internship agreement, a valid passport, and depending on the duration, either a Short-Stay Visa (Type C) or a National Visa (Type D). Language proficiency in French, German, or Luxembourgish can be beneficial.
Typically, internships range from 3 to 12 months.
For up to 90 days, one might need a Schengen short-stay visa, depending on nationality.
For more than 90 days, obtain a temporary authorization to stay, then apply for a Type D visa. After arrival, apply for a residence permit for interns.
They don’t need a visa. If interning for over 90 days, they should register with their local commune.
Check the official websites of the Immigration Directorate of Luxembourg or consult Luxembourg consulates in your country.
