← All luxembourg news

A D visa will be required for initial residence applications in Luxembourg from 1 October 2026

Published: 23.09.2026

From 1 October 2026, third-country nationals planning to move to Luxembourg for more than 90 days for work, study or family reunification will have to apply in person for a D visa at a Luxembourg embassy or the relevant Belgian embassy. The six-month visa will allow entry to Luxembourg and travel within the Schengen area until the residence permit is issued; after arrival, applicants must register with their municipality within three days and apply for the residence permit.

According to the sources, Luxembourg is replacing the prior application for temporary residence authorisation with a D-visa application submitted abroad for first-time moves by third-country nationals. This changes the document-preparation process and adds a mandatory embassy step before departure, while also allowing lawful entry and travel within the Schengen area while the residence permit is pending. The change is especially important for new workers, students and family members, as using the wrong procedure could affect relocation timing. Anyone planning to move after 1 October 2026 should account for the new process when preparing their documents and travel plans.