Planning to study, work or settle in Luxembourg? A major immigration procedure has changed from 1 October 2026.
Luxembourg has replaced its previous Temporary Stay Authorisation (AST) process with a long-stay Visa D for third-country nationals planning to stay in the country for more than 90 days.
The change brings Luxembourg’s immigration process more closely in line with other European countries and is particularly important for international students, workers and family members preparing to relocate.
What Has Changed?
Previously, people planning to settle in Luxembourg generally had to obtain a temporary stay authorisation from Luxembourg’s immigration authorities before applying for their visa.
Under the new system, applicants must apply for a long-stay Visa D through the appropriate Luxembourg diplomatic or consular representation abroad. Where Luxembourg does not handle long-stay visa applications in a particular country, the competent Belgian representation may handle the application.
The New Visa D Is Valid for 6 Months
One of the biggest changes is that approved applicants receive a Visa D valid for six months.
The visa allows them to enter Luxembourg and travel within the Schengen Area while they complete the remaining procedures required to obtain their Luxembourg residence permit.
This means applicants no longer have to wait for their residence permit to be issued before entering Luxembourg after receiving the appropriate Visa D.
Who Is Affected?
The new procedure applies broadly to third-country nationals who intend to establish themselves in Luxembourg for more than 90 days.
This includes people coming to Luxembourg for:
- 🎓 Studies
- 💼 Employment
- 👨👩👧 Family reunification
- 🧑🔬 Research
- 🏢 Self-employment
- 🏅 Certain other long-term residence purposes
The official Luxembourg guidance confirms that students and salaried workers now follow the Visa D route before entering the country.
What Happens After You Arrive?
Getting the Visa D is not the final step.
After arriving in Luxembourg, the applicant must complete additional residence formalities, including declaring their arrival at their local municipality and applying for their residence permit before the Visa D expires. A medical examination is also part of the residence process.
For applicants planning to move to Luxembourg, this means getting the visa and completing the residence process are two connected stages of the same journey.
What This Means for Nigerians
For Nigerians considering Luxembourg for study or employment, the new system makes it especially important to understand the correct application route before making relocation plans.
The key takeaway is simple: if you intend to stay in Luxembourg for more than 90 days, the new Visa D process is now central to your journey.
Proper documentation and choosing the correct residence category from the beginning can help you avoid unnecessary delays.
Planning Luxembourg in 2026?
Whether you’re considering studying in Luxembourg, taking up employment or relocating for another long-term purpose, RoutePal can help you understand the requirements and prepare for the visa process.
Planning Luxembourg? Talk to RoutePal and let’s help you take the right step.
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