The Luxembourg Spouse Visa is designed to reunite families by allowing the legal spouse or registered partner of a foreign national or citizen residing in Luxembourg to join and live with them. As part of the country’s broader family reunification policy, the visa facilitates a stable and secure living arrangement for families while offering access to employment, healthcare, and a pathway to permanent residency.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the Luxembourg Spouse Visa, including eligibility, sponsorship rules, application steps, costs, challenges, and expert tips to increase your success.
Why Choose Luxembourg for Family Reunification?
Luxembourg is a prosperous, safe, and multicultural country in the heart of Europe. It has a high standard of living, generous public services, and a well-regulated immigration system that prioritizes family unity.
| Reasons to Choose Luxembourg | Details |
| High quality of life | Strong healthcare, education, safety, and public infrastructure |
| Multicultural society | More than 45% of residents are immigrants |
| Central European location | Easy travel and access across the EU |
| Family-friendly immigration policies | Offers legal pathways for spouses and dependents |
| Right to work for spouses | Spouse visa holders often receive residence permits with work rights |
What is the Luxembourg Spouse Visa?
The Luxembourg Spouse Visa falls under the family reunification category of the immigration law. It allows non-EU spouses or registered partners of legal residents (or citizens) to move to Luxembourg and reside legally.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
| Type of Visa | Long-stay visa (Type D) leading to residence permit |
| Duration | 1 year, renewable (eventually leads to permanent residence) |
| Work Rights | Granted after receiving a residence card (in most cases) |
| Applies to | Spouses of third-country nationals or Luxembourg nationals |
| Family Inclusion | Minor children may also apply under family reunification |
| Path to Residency | Can lead to long-term residency and naturalization |
Eligibility Criteria for Luxembourg Spouse Visa
Sponsor Requirements
- Must be legally residing in Luxembourg (as a worker, student, researcher, etc.) or be a Luxembourg citizen
- Have stable and regular income sufficient to support the spouse
- Provide adequate accommodation for both parties
- Must have legal residence for at least one year (for third-country nationals)
Applicant (Spouse) Requirements
- Must be married or in a recognized registered partnership with the sponsor
- Be at least 18 years old
- Provide proof of the genuine and ongoing nature of the relationship
- Have no serious criminal record
- Valid passport and proof of legal entry (visa application if required)
How to Apply for the Luxembourg Spouse Visa
Step-by-Step Process
- Obtain Authorisation for Stay (Before Entry)
- The sponsor must apply for family reunification approval from the Immigration Directorate.
- Once approved, the spouse can apply for a long-stay visa (Type D).
- Apply for the Visa (Type D)
- The non-EU spouse applies through the Luxembourg embassy or consulate in their country.
- Enter Luxembourg
- After approval, the spouse enters Luxembourg and applies for a residence permit.
- Residence Permit Application
- Apply at the local commune and complete formalities with the Immigration Directorate.
- Undergo a medical check and register with the commune.
- Receive Residence Card
- Upon approval, the spouse receives a residence card, often with work authorization.
Visa Sponsorship for Luxembourg Spouse Visa
Sponsorship refers to the legal and financial responsibility the sponsor assumes when applying for their spouse to join them.
Sponsorship Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
| Stable Income | Must earn enough to support both without relying on state aid |
| Housing | Must provide proof of suitable accommodation (rental or ownership) |
| Legal Residency | Must have a valid residence permit and reside in Luxembourg for 1+ year |
| Marriage Validity | Must prove a genuine and ongoing relationship |
Documents Required
| From the Sponsor | From the Applicant (Spouse) |
| Passport & residence permit | Valid passport |
| Proof of employment/income | Police clearance certificate |
| Proof of accommodation (rental deed) | Marriage certificate (translated into French or German) |
| Recent tax return or salary slips | Birth certificate |
| Certificate of residence | Proof of relationship history (photos, messages, etc.) |
| Letter requesting reunification | Visa application form & passport photos |
All documents not in French, German, or English must be officially translated.
Cost of Luxembourg Spouse Visa
| Item | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
| Type D Long-Stay Visa Fee | €50–€80 |
| Document Translation & Certification | €100–€300 (depending on number of documents) |
| Medical Examination (post-arrival) | €50–€100 |
| Residence Permit Fee | €80–€100 |
Additional fees may apply for courier services, notary services, or legal support.
Benefits of the Luxembourg Spouse Visa
| Benefit | Details |
| Legal residence rights | Live and reside with your spouse legally in Luxembourg |
| Path to permanent residency | After 5 years, eligible for long-term residence |
| Right to work | Most spouses can work once the residence permit is issued |
| Healthcare access | Eligible for national healthcare once registered |
| Access to social services | Education, integration programs, and social benefits |
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
| Challenge | Solution |
| Delays in visa or permit approval | Submit all documents early and ensure translations are accurate |
| Language barriers (French/German) | Seek help from translators or hire legal assistance |
| Difficulties proving relationship validity | Include photos, travel history, messages, and notarized statements |
| Sponsor income below required level | Consider including additional financial support documents or co-sponsors |
| Inconsistent documentation | Double-check spellings, dates, and formats across all paperwork |
Additional Tips for Success
- Start early: Begin the process at least 3–6 months before your planned move.
- Use certified translators for any documents not in French, German, or English.
- Maintain records of relationship communication and joint responsibilities.
- Keep copies of all forms, receipts, and application numbers.
- Consult a lawyer or migration expert for complex cases or prior refusals.
- Register quickly after arrival to avoid any overstays or administrative issues.
The Luxembourg Spouse Visa offers immigrants a powerful opportunity to reunite with their loved ones, live together in a thriving European nation, and access work, healthcare, and long-term residency rights. With the right documentation, legal sponsorship, and attention to immigration requirements, your family journey to Luxembourg can be smooth, legal, and rewarding.
Planning ahead, submitting thorough documents, and understanding both your rights and obligations will significantly improve your chances of success.
