The Luxembourg way of life is lovely, and more and more people are moving there. Who wouldn’t want to live there with the standard of living, culture, history, and beauty of this country? Living in Luxembourg is a treat, but there are a few things you should know and consider before moving:
1. They have three official languages
The country was initially under German and French rule, so they spoke German and French. And in 1984, Luxembourgish became their national language. Studies suggest that roughly 70% of the population speaks Luxembourgish, with many speaking the other two official languages: French and German.
2. The cost of living is relatively high
The cost of living in Luxembourg, the Grand Duchy, is relatively high. As a result, many locals travel to bordering countries for luxury items and equipment due to the high prices.
Housing is also fairly expensive in Luxembourg. It is much better to buy property if you intend on staying there long-term as the average rent price is high, although it is more affordable in the south and the east.
The electricity price is higher than in other parts of Europe, and groceries are more expensive, depending on where you shop. However, their minimum wage is relatively high; this makes up for the cost of living.
3. Getting around Luxembourg
In 2020, Luxembourg became the first country to make all public transport free, unless traveling in first-class by train or if crossing the border. Traveling by bus is most common, and they have services in most villages and towns, as well as a regular train service with multiple routes and a tram.
They have several different taxi services to choose from. A great choice is a Vel’oh; these are bicycles that can be rented for a day and are all fully equipped with electric assistance. Yearly subscriptions are available.
A few people drive cars into the city, and carpooling is big. Luckily, there are numerous modes of transport to choose from!
4. There’s plenty to do over there
Luxembourg City and beyond has a lot on offer. You can spend your weekends visiting the galleries, museums, cafes, and bars and sampling the great beer, wine, and food.
The valley of the seven castles is a must-see. There are also various museums, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the City Casements, explore Berdorf or the different towns and villages. There is something for everyone, from culture, entertainment, and history to being outdoors.
5. Crime rates are low
The most common forms of crime in Luxembourg are burglary and theft. It is all generally non-violent. However, one should be aware of pickpocketers, especially in train stations. More significant crime rates have stayed relatively low over the years. It is just good to be alert, as anywhere else in the world.
Compared to other European countries, Luxembourg is one of the safest.
6. Their healthcare system is excellent
Luxembourg’s healthcare is one of the best; it’s state-funded and is of a very high standard, giving every citizen basic medical coverage. They can choose their hospital, doctor, and specialist.
Citizens contribute to health insurance by paying the social security system; most tests, prescriptions, treatments, and hospitalizations are covered. Those who cannot make contributions get state-covered basic medical treatment. If you are not from the European Union, you will need to purchase private health insurance.
Public health insurance covers about 80-90% of the medical costs. Registering for health insurance as an expat is simple. You will need to register at the CCSSand provide general documentation.
7. This is the second richest country in the world
The wealth in Luxembourg is very stable, their unemployment rates remain low, and their income rates are high. The World Economic Forum suggests that their GDP is so high due to the large number of people working in such a tiny landlocked country who live in the neighboring countries.
The infrastructure in Luxembourg is very advanced, and the labor market’s high values attract a lot of investors. The economy is predominantly based on import-export, although their finance sector is their biggest contributor to their economy – it’s a hot spot for major private banking.
8. The cuisine is a blend of French and German
Luxembourg is the land of different cultures and customs. This is certainly seen in their cuisine. Get ready for French cuisine in German portions. Bon appétit? Guten appetite? Anyways, indulge yourself in their culinary excellence!
You will find some Michelin-star restaurants here and Luxembourg is big on meat, with big and hearty portions. Some popular dishes include Rieslingspaschtéit, a pie with meat and some Riesling wine, and Kniddelen mat Speck; these are dumplings with some bacon.
9. One of the best education systems in the world
Most schools are free and are government-run. Nearly all schools are multi-lingual, and some also speak English, but several national and international schools are suitable for expats.
They have fundamental education, where pre-schools and primary schools are combined. Then they have a secondary school. This is mainly for students who want to go to university. Other students may choose to go to technical system schools, where their studies focus on specific skill sets.
The ministry of education helps new students find suitable schools for themselves and is great for expats. They do this through their CASNA service.
10. Visas and permits
You will need a residence and work permit to work in Luxembourg legally. There are various types of work permits. A short stay isn’t applicable for you if you want to move to Luxembourg. There is a long-stay visa for self-employed workers, salaried workers, highly qualified employees, au pairs, and students.
There is also an EU Blue Card for those who want to work in Luxembourg for more than three months. This visa has benefits, but there is a procedure to follow. The application process for visas varies according to personal circumstances, education, and employment. The application needs to be submitted in the area you want to work and live.
You will need to supply various documents, passports, ID, and finances, to name a few. And all of them need to be translated. Luxembourg will grant you residency if they see that you will serve the country and are required. You will also need a foreigner’s identity card.
11. Almost half of the population are immigrants
More expats live in Luxembourg than in any other country in Europe. There are about 170 different nationalities. This may be due to the high standard of living in Luxembourg, and many people move there for a good job, security, and a better life.
12. Diverse culture and beautiful landscapes
Luxembourg gets some of its cultures from its surrounding countries, and about 87% of the population is Roman Catholic. Kissing on the cheek three times is a standard greeting, and people are generally very welcoming and friendly.
Luxembourg is also home to scenic villages and towns, and when leaving Luxembourg City, you will see castles, pastoral idylls, and exquisite natural beauty.
13. Taxes in Luxembourg
Expats will need to pay income tax, and you are put into a tax class based on your residency and marital status. Many employee benefits are also taxed, and you pay tax on rental income. The income tax ranges from 0-42%, and workers also need to pay 7% and 9% to the employment fund. How much you pay depends on your tax class.
14. Work-life balance
Luxembourg has the best work-life balance. Working citizens get 32 days of paid leave per year and work 1703hours a year. Many employers allow maternity and annual leave, flexitime, paternity leave, career breaks, and study and examination leave. The working week is 40 hours, and employees must be compensated if they work overtime.
Employers ensure that the working environment is positive and allows for some freedoms. People have an excellent work-life balance and enjoy family time while earning a decent salary.
15. They produce award-winning wines
You’ll likely only taste their wine when living in Luxembourg. They are home to over 450 producers and winegrowers. Most of the wine is consumed by the locals, and the rest is sent to Germany and Belgium. Winemakers need to produce quality over quantity, and there are standards for colour, bouquet, clarity, and taste.
They have numerous wine festivals, so make sure you indulge in a glass of wine…or many while living in Luxembourg!
16. They won Eurovision five times
Luxembourg was one of the original contenders in 1956. They had their first win in 1961 and their second in 1965, making it into the Hall of Fame. They then won again in 1972 and 1973, and their fifth win was in 1983. It may be a small country, but the people are exceptionally talented!
17. Castles, castles…and more castles
There are about 130 castles spread throughout the entire country. These castles are centuries old and have an incredible history. You must go and explore the numerous castles when you are living in Luxembourg! Today, some are used to hold exhibitions, while others are used for medieval festivals, theatre nights, concerts, and performances.
18. The quality of life is very high
The quality of life is excellent when living in Luxembourg. They have a good healthcare system, environmental quality, and business freedom. People living in Luxembourg feel very safe, and most people have a relatively high income. Most people there have had a good education and have stable jobs.
There is also a great sense of community and civic participation. People are generally pleased with their standard and way of life in Luxembourg. When looking at the OECD Better Life Index, it is clear that numerous factors contribute to people feeling this way and living a good life.
19. The country is home to wild boars
You will likely run into a wild boar when you are in Luxembourg. They aren’t anything to be afraid of and generally stay out of people’s way. There is an overpopulation of boars, and the government is encouraging people to hunt them as they are damaging crops and meadows.
20. Pretzel Sunday
Bretzelsonndeg! These are pretzels for love; women are given a pretzel with almonds and sugar icing as a sign of affection. If their feelings are mutual, then their love will be given an egg during easter, and if not… they’ll be given an empty basket. Pretzel Sunday is during lent on the fourth Sunday. The pretzels are a token of the man’s feelings and appreciation.
21. The minimum legal drinking age is 16 years
People can legally drink at the age of 16, but being drunk and disorderly when out in public is a criminal offense, and one can be fined or arrested. One cannot drink spirits or go to a club, but one can have a glass of wine or beer in a bar. The legal age to purchase spirits is 18 years of age.
FAQs
Is Luxembourg landlocked?
Yes, it is. France, Belgium, and Germany surround Luxembourg. So Luxembourg is not by the sea.
What is the average salary in Luxembourg?
The average salary in Luxembourg is about $65,854 USD per year. However, the OECD did a report and found that the average salary for popular jobs is about €59,923 per year.
Are Luxembourgers friendly?
Yes, they are. But they can also be a little bit reserved when talking to and dealing with strangers. However, good manners are essential to them, and they are undoubtedly welcoming and friendly to all.
What type of government is used in Luxembourg?
Luxembourg is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy with a prime minister, head of government, Grand Duke, and Head of State. Essentially their prime minister is their head of government and the multi-party system.
Final Thoughts
Living in Luxembourg as an expat is a beautiful experience, and I couldn’t recommend it more. Benefitting from the work-life balance, the safety, and the high standard of living just can’t be beaten. If you know that you’ll have a job there and can support yourself and your family, I don’t know what’s stopping you.
The country is full of history and diverse cultures that make it so unique, and moving there will be an adventure that can open you up to new opportunities and experiences.
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