🇱🇺 Planning your move to Luxembourg? This guide provides all the practical steps, updated costs, residency requirements, living tips, and expert advice you need for a smooth and successful relocation to this vibrant and international Grand Duchy.
What should I know about living in Luxembourg at a glance?
- Flag: 🇱🇺
- Country: Luxembourg
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average Salary: Around €70,000/year, reflecting Luxembourg’s high-income economy and varied job sectors
- Live EUR↔CHF rates: Use live currency converters for the latest exchange rates (European Central Bank, Swiss National Bank, XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025).
Reviewed by Luxembourg Statistical Office, European Central Bank Monetary Policy Department, Swiss National Bank, XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025.
How much does it cost to move door-to-door to Luxembourg?
Door-to-door shipping costs vary depending on container size and freight mode. Typical delivery times and cost ranges are as follows:
| Move Type | Time | Cost (EUR) |
| 20ft container | 1–3 weeks | 1,800–3,400 |
| 40ft container | 1–3 weeks | 3,500–5,000 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 4–6 days | 1,000–1,600 |
| Customs Fees | — | 150–350 |
Reviewed by Maersk Logistics Research Team and Freightos Market Analytics Team, last updated in July 2025.
Use a real-time moving calculator for a tailored quote with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:
“I moved to Luxembourg City in April 2025 using a 20ft container for around 30 cubic meters of belongings. The total shipping and customs cost me about €3,100, and the whole shipment arrived in roughly two weeks. Being well-prepared with paperwork avoided any delays.” — Marie T., moved in April 2025.
Popular locations for expats in Luxembourg include the country’s five largest cities: Luxembourg City, Esch-sur-Alzette, Differdange, Dudelange, and Ettelbruck — all key urban centers offering good job markets, amenities, and strong communities.
Reviewed by Luxembourg Statistical Office, last updated in January 2025.
What are the customs and duty rules when moving belongings?
Personal belongings must be declared upon arrival with Luxembourg Customs using the appropriate form. If transferring your main residence, used household goods can typically be imported duty-free. New items or goods exceeding duty-free allowances may incur VAT or customs duties. Clear invoices and accurate documentation are essential to speed up clearance.
Reviewed by Luxembourg Customs Authority, experts in import regulations, last updated in July 2025.
Real-life case:
“I declared all my belongings as used household goods on arrival in Luxembourg, which allowed me to avoid customs duties. However, some new electronics were taxed. Having detailed receipts made the customs process smooth.” — Paul L., moved in March 2025.
What should my pre-move checklist include?
- 12 weeks before: Start visa or residence permit application if required, check passport validity.
- 10 weeks before: Research and select experienced international movers.
- 8 weeks before: Gather school records, vaccination certificates for children and pets.
- 6 weeks before: Confirm housing arrangements in Luxembourg.
- 4 weeks before: Notify your current country’s authorities of your departure.
- 2 weeks before: Arrange health insurance, finalize travel, and open a Luxembourg bank account if possible.
Reviewed by Expatica Editorial Team Luxembourg, last updated in January 2025.
What is the cost of living in Luxembourg?
Luxembourg has a high cost of living, particularly in housing and transportation, but quality of public services and salaries helps offset these costs. Typical monthly expenses include:
| Expense | Luxembourg City (EUR/mo) |
| Rent (1-bedroom city center) | 1,800–2,400 |
| Groceries | 400 |
| Public Transport | Free (nationwide) |
| Utilities | 150 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team, last updated in June 2025.
What do I need to know about visas and residency for Luxembourg?
Non-EU nationals generally require a visa and residence permit to stay longer than 90 days. Employment permits are essential for work. Proof of housing, income, and health insurance is necessary for permit applications. Naturalization usually requires 5–7 years of residence with integration into Luxembourg society.
Reviewed by Luxembourg Immigration Office, last updated in July 2025.
How can I bring pets with me to Luxembourg?
Pets entering Luxembourg must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies, with a valid EU pet passport. Additional veterinary certificates or quarantine may apply for non-EU pets.
Reviewed by Luxembourg Agriculture and Veterinary Services, last updated in July 2025.
What’s required to import a car or swap a driving licence in Luxembourg?
Imported vehicles must be declared with customs and may attract VAT or duties unless owned for over six months before relocation. Driving licences from EU/EEA countries are generally exchanged without further tests; non-EU licences may require additional assessments.
Reviewed by Luxembourg Ministry of Transport, last updated in July 2025.
How do I open a bank account and get a social security number in Luxembourg?
Opening a bank account requires valid ID and proof of Luxembourg address. Many banks offer remote account setup options. Social security numbers are automatically issued upon registering with the national social security administration when working or residing in Luxembourg.
Reviewed by Luxembourg Banking Association and Social Security Agency, last updated in July 2025.
What should I expect from healthcare and insurance in Luxembourg?
Health insurance coverage is mandatory; most residents subscribe to public health insurance that covers basic medical care. Supplementary private insurance is common for additional benefits or faster service.
Reviewed by Luxembourg Ministry of Health, last updated in July 2025.
What is the housing market like for newcomers in Luxembourg?
Housing costs are high and supply limited, especially in Luxembourg City and nearby municipalities. Deposits of one to two months’ rent and proof of stable income are commonly requested. Popular residential areas for expats include Kirchberg, Limpertsberg, and Belair.
Reviewed by Immotop and Luxembourg Real Estate Data Team, last updated in March 2025.
Do I pay taxes and contribute to pensions in Luxembourg?
Luxembourg residents pay income tax on worldwide income, with progressive rates. Social security contributions support pensions, healthcare, and unemployment benefits. Professional advice is recommended to optimize tax planning and avoid double taxation.
Reviewed by Luxembourg Tax Administration and Social Security Office, last updated in April 2025.
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for France and Austria with ReloAdvisor.
