The glossary to understand and take action

Work and residence authorisation

The right to work and reside in Luxembourg depends on the person's nationality and circumstances. Certain activities carried out by third-country nationals require an appropriate authorisation or permit.

Démarche et formalité · Luxembourg Fiduciaries Editorial Team · Reviewed on

Understand the scope

What is this process for?

A residence permit issued in another country does not automatically grant all professional rights in Luxembourg. Employment, self-employment and cross-border work follow different procedures.

In your file

How to prepare the process

Identify the official information sheet corresponding to the profile before setting the start date of the activity. Prepare the person's documents and those of the employer, then verify the order of the procedures. Keep the evidence required to verify the right to work and anticipate deadlines. A change of role or circumstances may warrant an additional check.

A scenario to help you understand

Educational example

A company wishes to hire a third-country national: it reviews the permits and procedures required before the person starts work.

Fictitious situation, presented to illustrate the concept.

Prepare for what comes next

Points to check

  • Qualifier la situation exacte
  • Respecter l’ordre des démarches
  • Suivre la validité du droit de travailler

Connecting concepts

Terms to know as well

Continue with the concepts, contacts and procedures related to this topic.

Directorate-General for ImmigrationThe Directorate-General for Immigration of the Ministry of Home Affairs handles residence and work procedures falling within its remit. It is involved in particular in certain professional projects involving third-country nationals.Vacancy declarationThe vacancy declaration informs ADEM of the employer's recruitment need. It describes the position and enables exchanges with the employment service to be organised.Employment contractThe employment contract governs an employment relationship, with the respective obligations of the employer and employee within the applicable legal framework.Operational declaration with the CCSSA procedure enabling a company to register as an employer with the CCSS.Joint Social Security Centre (CCSS)The Joint Social Security Centre (CCSS) notably manages registrations and the collection of social security contributions within its remit.Social minimum wageThe social minimum wage is a statutory remuneration benchmark whose applicable amount varies, in particular, according to age, qualification and period.

Put it into practice

Explore further with our guides

Practical guideFirst hire: organising the employer file and payroll

Sources and verification

References consulted on 20 September 2026. Official procedures specify the applicable conditions and exceptions.

This guide explains a general process. The applicable rules depend on your situation; it does not constitute personalised advice. Report a correction.

A definition gives you a reference point. To examine your situation, clarify your question with a professional.