Immigration & International Mobility
Immigration in Luxembourg: what has changed since 1 October 2026
Since 1 October 2026, people covered by the new procedure for first-time settlement in Luxembourg must prepare their application around the long-stay visa. This change requires checking the procedure used, especially where a file was started before that date. An old guide or document checklist kept for several months may no longer correspond to the steps required.
Visa D becomes the entry point for the new procedure
The government press release of 23 September 2026 announces that the prior application for temporary authorisation to stay is replaced by a visa D application to the competent diplomatic representation. It concerns third-country nationals wishing to settle for more than 90 days, particularly to work, study or join family. [1]
Changing where an application is filed does not mean all residence categories have the same conditions. Identify the precise reason for settling before assembling the file.
Check exclusions before changing your application
The press release excludes, in particular, Union citizens and their family members, persons treated as equivalent, British nationals protected by the Withdrawal Agreement, renewals, replacements, category changes, applications made within the country and international protection. [1]
This distinction is essential: the new first-settlement procedure must not automatically be applied to someone already holding a residence right. Have your situation assessed from current documents, not nationality alone.
What happens to earlier applications?
The ministry states that temporary authorisations already issued remain valid under their conditions. Applications filed up to and including 30 September 2026 continue under the previous procedure. Following approval, a notification enables the visa application; supporting documents already examined need not be produced again under the framework described. [2]
Keep proof of the initial filing and the decision received. Do not withdraw an application or file a second one solely because you discover the procedural change. First obtain confirmation of how your file will be handled.
Filing abroad and processing: distinguish the two roles
The consular post receives the application under local arrangements, potentially through a service provider. Assessment and decision-making remain with the competent Luxembourg authorities, principally the General Department of Immigration for the categories concerned. The consulted Belgian representation’s instructions also describe this division. [2][3]
Before an appointment, verify the competent post, category and current document checklist. Keep a copy of the file actually submitted and follow requests for additional information.
The formalities continue after arrival
The press release provides for a visa D valid for six months and recalls the declaration of arrival at the municipality within three days, as well as the residence permit application to the General Department of Immigration after arrival. [1] The visa’s validity must therefore not be interpreted as a period during which all formalities can be postponed.
Must I restart my September application?
Not solely because the procedure changed. Check proof of filing and the transitional rules corresponding to your situation.
Does filing an application guarantee a visa?
No. Filing and approval are different stages; the conditions of the category applied for still require assessment.
KM Legal helps you identify the applicable procedure, check documents and coordinate the steps for settling in Luxembourg.
Sources and references
Institutional sources consulted on 6 November 2026.
- Government — Press release of 23 September 2026
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs — Visa D and transition
- Belgian Embassy in Lebanon — Allocation of responsibilities for visa D
Further reading
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