Luxembourg may be one of Europe’s smallest countries, but it is also among the richest and most attractive destinations for travelers, students, workers, and investors. Located in the heart of Europe and part of the Schengen Area, Luxembourg welcomes thousands of visitors every year.
If you’re planning a trip to Luxembourg, this guide explains who needs a visa, the types of Luxembourg visas available, application requirements, processing time, fees, and what to do if your visa is refused.
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Luxembourg?
You do not need a Luxembourg visa if you fall under any of the following categories:
- You are a citizen or family member of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland
- You hold a passport from a country with a Schengen visa-free agreement
You must apply for a Luxembourg visa if you are from a country that does not have visa-free access to the Schengen Area.
Types of Luxembourg Visas
Luxembourg issues three main types of visas depending on your travel purpose and length of stay:
1. Airport Transit Visa (Type A)
A Luxembourg Airport Transit Visa allows travelers to pass through a Luxembourg airport while traveling to another destination. This visa does not permit entry into Luxembourg and is valid for up to 24 hours.
Citizens of the following countries must obtain an airport transit visa:
- Bangladesh
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Eritrea
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
- Iran
- Iraq
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Somalia
- Sri Lanka
- Western Sahara
2. Short-Stay Visa (Type C – Schengen Visa)
A Luxembourg short-stay visa allows you to stay in Luxembourg and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
This visa is issued for purposes such as:
- Tourism
- Business meetings
- Family or friend visits
- Medical treatment
- Conferences and events
- School trips
Note: A short-stay visa cannot be converted into a residence permit.
3. Long-Stay Visa (Type D)
A Luxembourg long-stay visa is issued for up to one year and allows travel within the Schengen Area.
You can apply for a long-stay visa if your purpose is:
- Employment
- Studies
- Investment
- Family reunification
With a Type D visa, you can apply for a temporary residence permit, which may be renewed and can eventually allow long-term residence.
Luxembourg Schengen Visa vs Long-Stay Visa
| Feature | Short-Stay (C Visa) | Long-Stay (D Visa) |
| Validity | Up to 90 days | Up to 1 year |
| Purpose | Tourism, visits, business | Work, study, family reunion |
| Residence Permit | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Extension | ❌ Must leave after expiry | ✅ Renewable |
Luxembourg Visa Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for a Luxembourg visa:
Step 1: Book an Embassy Appointment
Contact the nearest Luxembourg embassy or consulate and book an appointment. Arriving late may result in losing your appointment slot. Some applicants may be interviewed.
Step 2: Complete the Visa Application Form
Download and complete the Luxembourg visa application form carefully. Print and sign it. Incomplete or false information may lead to refusal.
Step 3: Submit Documents & Pay the Visa Fee
Submit all required documents at the embassy or consulate and pay the applicable visa fee. Attach the payment receipt to your application.
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
Most applications are processed within 15 days, though delays may occur during peak seasons or if additional documents are required.
Luxembourg Visa Requirements
To apply for a Luxembourg visa, you must submit the following documents:
- Valid passport (valid at least 3 months beyond return date, with 2 blank pages)
- Two passport-size photos meeting Schengen guidelines
- Completed visa application form
- Travel medical insurance (minimum coverage of €30,000)
- Visa fee payment receipt
- Cover letter explaining your travel purpose
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, rental agreement, or invitation letter)
- Invitation letter (if staying with family or friends)
- Bank statements (last 6 months)
- Flight itinerary showing return travel
Missing documents can result in visa refusal.
Common Luxembourg Visa Interview Questions
You may be asked questions such as:
- What is the purpose of your visit?
- What do you do in your home country?
- Are you currently employed?
- Have you traveled abroad before?
- Can you show proof of funds?
- Do you have strong ties to your home country?
Luxembourg Visa Fees
| Visa Type | Fee |
| Airport Transit Visa | €90 |
| Short-Stay (Schengen) Visa | €90 |
| Long-Stay (National) Visa | €50 |
Visa Fee Exemptions
Applicants exempt from visa fees include:
- Children under 6 years
- EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and family members
- Holders of diplomatic passports
- Scientific researchers
- Students traveling for study purposes
Luxembourg Visa Processing Time
- Standard processing: 15 days
- Extended processing: Up to 60 days in special cases
Processing time may vary due to application volume, missing documents, or public holidays.
What If My Luxembourg Visa Is Refused?
If your visa is denied, you can:
- Appeal the decision within 15 days
- Re-apply with corrected or additional documents
- Apply through another Schengen country (if eligible)
Common Reasons for Refusal
- False or incomplete information
- Missing documents
- Insufficient funds
- Invalid passport
- No travel insurance
Final Thoughts
Applying for a Luxembourg visa is straightforward if you meet the requirements and submit complete documentation. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, work, or study, understanding the process increases your chances of approval.
For more visa guide visit our “Visa Guide” Category
