Starting 1 October 2026, Luxembourg will significantly modernize its immigration procedures for third-country nationals wishing to relocate to the Grand Duchy for more than 90 days.
As part of a reform approved by the government in 2025, Luxembourg will replace its longstanding Temporary Authorization to Stay (AST) process with a Long-Stay Visa (Visa D) application procedure, bringing the country in line with the immigration practices applied across the European Union.
Applicants will no longer submit an initial residence authorization request directly to Luxembourg’s Immigration Directorate.
Instead, they will apply for a Visa D through a Luxembourg diplomatic mission or, where Luxembourg is not represented, the competent Belgian embassy abroad. If approved, the applicant will receive a Visa D valid for six months, allowing them to enter Luxembourg and circulate within the Schengen Area while the residence permit is being processed.
Upon arrival in Luxembourg, they will need to complete the arrival declaration with the local municipality within 3 days and submit the residence permit application to the responsible Immigration Directorate.
European alignment
Luxembourg was the last EU Member State maintaining a separate national pre-entry authorization process. This reform harmonizes its immigration framework with European standards.
Enhanced security
The Visa D process is better aligned with the requirements of evolving European border management and smart border systems.
Greater mobility
A Visa D allows beneficiaries to travel throughout the Schengen Area upon arrival, without having to wait for the issuance of their Luxembourg residence permit.
The new procedure applies to non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals planning to reside in Luxembourg for more than 90 days, including for:
The new procedure does not apply to:
This reform represents a significant change to Luxembourg’s immigration process. It is expected to enhance consistency with EU immigration practices and provide greater flexibility for international talent moving to Luxembourg, particularly through the mobility benefits associated with the Visa D. While the new process aims to simplify and modernize the current framework, employers and applicants should anticipate some practical adjustments during the initial implementation period.
For a deeper discussion on the above, please reach out to your Vialto Partners point of contact, or alternatively:
Maud Aupetit
Immigration Director
Rébecca Serval
Immigration Senior Advisor
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