Luxembourg Business Investor Permit: Unlocking EU Residency Through Strategic Investment

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Dec 21, 2023
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Luxembourg, nestled in the heart of Europe, offers a strategic opportunity for foreign investors to gain EU residency while accessing one of the continent's most robust economies. Through the Luxembourg Business Investor Permit—often dubbed a “Golden Visa”—high-net-worth individuals can obtain residency in approximately six months, with the potential for permanent residency or even citizenship after five years.


This article provides a comprehensive overview of the program’s requirements, benefits, and long-term potential for business-minded individuals seeking growth, stability, and European access.




Why Luxembourg?​


Luxembourg is more than just a financial hub. With political and economic stability, favorable tax laws, and world-class infrastructure, it is an ideal base for launching or expanding a European enterprise. The country’s passport ranks among the strongest globally, and dual citizenship is permitted, increasing its appeal for international investors.




Key Features of the Investor Permit​


  • Residency Within Six Months
    Applicants can obtain Luxembourgish residency relatively quickly, especially compared to other EU residency-by-investment programs.
  • Pathway to Citizenship
    Citizenship may be granted after five years of continuous residency, provided applicants demonstrate language proficiency and integration into Luxembourg society.
  • Dual Citizenship Allowed
    Luxembourg permits dual nationality, although individuals should check the laws in their country of origin for compatibility.
  • Schengen Access
    Residency provides visa-free travel across the 27-country Schengen zone.
  • Family Inclusion
    Immediate family members, such as a spouse and children, may be included and can benefit from the same rights, including education, work, and health services.



Investment Options​


Applicants must select one of the following investment routes:


  1. Local Company Investment
    • Amount: €500,000
    • Conditions: Invest in an existing Luxembourg-based business and maintain investment and employment for at least five years.
  2. New Business Creation
    • Amount: €500,000
    • Conditions: Start a new company registered in Luxembourg and create a minimum of five jobs within three years.
  3. Investment Funds
    • Amount: €3 million
    • Conditions: Invest in an existing or to-be-created investment fund headquartered in Luxembourg.
  4. Bank Deposit
    • Amount: €20 million
    • Conditions: Deposit must be held in a Luxembourgish bank for five years. Ideal for ultra-high-net-worth individuals.



The Application Process​


Step 1: Approval of Investment Plan


  • Obtain endorsement from the Minister of the Economy or Finance.

Step 2: Entry Authorization


  • Apply for a temporary authorisation to enter the country and initiate business formalities.

Step 3: Long-Stay Visa (If Required)


  • Non-EU nationals must obtain a long-stay "D" visa before travel.

Step 4: In-Country Formalities


  • Complete medical checks and apply for a residence permit.



Benefits of Luxembourg Residency for Business Investors​


  • Strategic Location
    Positioned centrally in Europe with direct access to key markets like Germany, France, and Belgium.
  • Favorable Tax Environment
    Competitive corporate tax rates, investor incentives, and an extensive tax treaty network.
  • Robust Legal Framework
    Strong protections for property rights and investors.
  • Thriving Financial Sector
    Luxembourg is a global leader in fund administration and wealth management.
  • Multicultural Society
    With over half its population being foreign-born, Luxembourg is an inclusive and diverse society.
  • Quality of Life
    Excellent public healthcare, private and international schools, and a safe living environment.



Pros & Cons Summary​


Pros:


  • Fast-track EU residency with clear path to citizenship
  • Visa-free Schengen travel
  • High-quality public services
  • Investor-friendly environment with low political risk
  • Family members are included in the permit
  • Wide choice of investment options
  • Dual citizenship allowed
  • Stable banking and legal systems

Cons:


  • High investment thresholds, especially for the bank deposit option
  • Active business management may be required in some cases
  • Requires proof of integration (language, culture) for citizenship
  • Approval depends on ministerial discretion (not automatic)
  • Limited flexibility to withdraw investment within the first five years



Final Thoughts​


For investors looking to expand their global footprint, the Luxembourg Business Investor Permit offers a compelling route. With strong legal safeguards, competitive taxation, and a prime location, Luxembourg stands as a gateway to the broader European market. Investors not only gain access to a premium business environment but also enjoy the lifestyle benefits of residing in one of Europe’s wealthiest nations.


The program represents not just a relocation opportunity, but a strategic move towards long-term growth, security, and legacy planning in the European Union.
 
Luxembourg’s Investor Permit is often misunderstood. It’s not just about “buying residency” — you actually need to commit capital into real business or funds. The €500k new business creation path requires creating five jobs within 3 years. That’s a real obligation, not just a paper exercise.
 
Does anyone know how strict they are with the language requirement for citizenship after 5 years? Like, is it conversational fluency or do you need near-native?
 
Does anyone know how strict they are with the language requirement for citizenship after 5 years? Like, is it conversational fluency or do you need near-native?
It’s usually A2 spoken and B1 written French, German, or Luxembourgish depending on the integration track. The government is quite serious about it, though many expats opt for Luxembourgish classes since it shows genuine commitment to local culture.
 
Honestly, I think the €20M bank deposit route is just showing off. Most serious investors I’ve met consider the company investment or fund option way more practical.
 
Indeed, the bank deposit modality epitomizes ostentation rather than sagacity. The fund alternative synergizes with Luxembourg’s unparalleled pre-eminence in asset management jurisprudence.
 
yaH but wHo got 500K jus lying around?? 😂 seems lik this is only 4 super rich folks.
 
Luxembourg’s program is one of the fastest routes to EU citizenship compared to others. Portugal and Spain usually take 7–10 years. Luxembourg can be just 5, but you really must integrate.