Luxembourg implements legislation to enable direct work access for dependants of international employees
01 September 2023As of 1 September 2023, recognised dependants of third country nationals, including EU Blue Card holders and intra-corporate transferees, can directly access employment (including self-employment) via their residence permit for the purpose of family reunification.
Under the new rules:
- Work access will be open so that eligible family members can work for any employer or carry out self-employed work.
- The rules will apply to the spouse or registered partner (opposite or same-sex), children under 18 (who are of legal working age) and any other family member that may hold a residence permit as a family member of a third country national.
Reflecting on the legislation, Permits Foundation Director Helen Frew said:
“Implementation of this Bill and the relating amendments to labour and immigration laws will make Luxembourg a more attractive business destination for companies looking to move and retain talent. Accompanying partners are themselves likely to be highly-qualified. Permits Foundation’s surveys show that where both partners can work in the host country, families experience improved integration and well-being, often relying on the economic security of a dual income.
While we have been awaiting change in Luxembourg for some time, Permits Foundation is delighted that not only is Luxembourg now green on our world map of partner work authorisation, it also ticks most of our best practice categories for inclusive immigration, though we note that non-married partners are unfortunately not eligible. We know from our network of global employers as well as from accompanying partners, that lack of direct work access for dependants of international employees had been causing frustration. We appreciate the companies and organisations that raised their concerns with the authorities and commend the government for adopting measures to help facilitate direct work access, including self-employment, for third country national family members.”
Useful information
- Legislative confirmation of new rules
- Confirmation on the government website
- Our July 2023 news update upon Bill 8227 vote in Luxembourg Chamber of Deputies
- Permits Foundation world map of mobile spouse and partner work authorisation
- World map Luxembourg page
- Permits Foundation surveys and key facts
