Integration and living together in Luxembourg
Moving to Luxembourg is a rewarding experience—often stimulating… and sometimes confusing. Every year, the Grand Duchy welcomes many new residents, drawn by its economic vitality and quality of life. The largely positive net migration rate is a testament to this.
In this context, the integration of expats and newcomers is a key priority. Beyond the administrative procedures, it’s about finding your place, building connections, and understanding the norms of a multicultural country.
In Luxembourg, integration is a shared responsibility: institutions, municipalities, and associations offer numerous resources… but your personal involvement remains essential.
Also check out our practical tips for getting off to a good start in Luxembourg.
How to successfully integrate in Luxembourg?
Integrating into a new country takes time. It involves both understanding the local environment and gradually building connections. Here are some concrete steps to help you settle in.
Learning the languages: a key to integration
Luxembourg has three official languages: Luxembourgish, French, and German. Even though English is widely used, making the effort to learn a local language greatly facilitates communication. It demonstrates your willingness to integrate.
Luxembourgish, the national language, holds a special place in daily life. Even a few basic words or phrases can make a difference in your interactions.
French and German remain widely used in government offices and schools, as well as in certain professions. English is the preferred language in the world of international business.
Get involved in local and social life
Building connections is often the most crucial step. Participating in local life will help you better understand the culture and meet other residents.
Check out our calendar of events in Luxembourg to find opportunities near you.
We particularly recommend the following events for their festive and friendly atmosphere, which is perfect for meeting people:
- traditional events and festivals,
- Music Day,
- National Day on June 23,
- Christmas markets and Winterlights.
To help you settle in, you can also:
- join an association or volunteer project,
- join expat groups or local clubs,
- build your network, especially if you are looking for a job.
For expats’ spouses, these initiatives often represent a first step toward rebuilding their professional and social lives.
The neighborhood also plays an important role in your local integration. This can help you feel at home more quickly. Participating in a neighborhood party or simply introducing yourself can open doors.
Social norms may differ: invitations to people’s homes are less spontaneous, but relationships are built over time.
Understanding Luxembourg’s cultural norms
Luxembourg is a multicultural country where people of many nationalities live together. Discretion, respect, and reliability are particularly valued.
Taking the time to discover local traditions, including culinary ones, also helps with your integration. Explore Luxembourgish specialties such as Judd mat Gaardebounen or Kachkéis.
Be patient and open-minded
It’s normal not to feel “at home” right away. Integration is a gradual process. Relationships may take time to build, but they are often strong and lasting.
Read the experiences of other expats in Luxembourg to better understand the stages of this transition.
What integration programs are available in Luxembourg?
Luxembourg has implemented numerous initiatives to support newcomers as they settle in and integrate.
Access resources and support programs
Luxembourg institutions offer a variety of services to promote the integration of newcomers:
- accessible language courses,
- information on daily life,
- employment support.
Education and integration of children
Newly arrived children benefit from a special support program designed to help them adjust.
The Luxembourg school system also provides tailored language support.
For adults, up to 200 hours of educational leave are available to learn Luxembourgish throughout their working lives.
The Reception and Integration Contract (CAI)
The Luxembourg government offers the CAI, intended for residents over the age of 16.
This program includes:
- discounted language courses,
- civic education on values, history, and institutions,
- an orientation day to learn about the country’s services.
This knowledge is useful, particularly for those planning to apply for Luxembourgish citizenship.
The National Integration Action Plan
Led by the Ministry of Family Affairs, this plan aims to promote the inclusion of all residents, with a particular focus on people in vulnerable situations.
Diversity and Inclusion in Luxembourg
Every year, the Lëtzebuerg Diversity Charter organizes Diversity Day, bringing together businesses and institutions to promote inclusion.
Promoting diversity means recognizing the richness of people’s backgrounds and cultures and fostering a respectful environment for everyone.
Organizations and associations to help you integrate
Many public and community organizations support newcomers to Luxembourg.
Higher Council for Intercultural Coexistence
Created in 2024, this body replaces the National Council for Foreigners. It aims to strengthen social cohesion among all residents, regardless of their nationality.
In a country where nearly 50% of the population is foreign-born, the challenge is to build an inclusive society.
Learn more about the Higher Council for Intercultural Coexistence
ONA – National Reception Office
The ONA coordinates the reception of applicants for international protection and manages accommodation facilities.
Visit the ONA’s official website
ASTI – Association for the Support of Immigrant Workers
ASTI provides information on immigration procedures (visas, residence permits, etc.) and offers language courses.
CLAE – Liaison Committee of Foreigners’ Associations
CLAE supports migrant families with their administrative procedures and organizes major events such as the Festival of Migrations.
Luxembourg Accueil
This association facilitates connections among residents through a variety of activities: cultural, athletic, language-based, or social.
It often serves as a valuable anchor for building connections right from the start.
Visit the Luxembourg Accueil website
In short: finding your place in Luxembourg
Integrating into Luxembourg isn’t about a single action, but a series of small steps. Learning the language, building connections, understanding the norms… everyone moves at their own pace.
If you’re going through a period of transition (personal or professional), it’s also normal to experience moments of doubt. In this case, getting support from a professional can help you clarify your priorities and regain momentum.
Over time, Luxembourg often becomes much more than just a temporary stopover: a true home, a place of balance and opportunity.
Articles in the category General information about Luxembourg
Cosmopolitan population and cultural diversity
Nearly half of Luxembourg's population is foreign, with strong demographic growth due to constant immigration in search of employment.
Luxembourg culinary specialties and products
Luxembourg has many culinary specialties. This strong tradition is reflected in local festivals and other traditional events.
Luxembourg municipalities, towns, and villages
The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg has 100 municipalities, 12 of which are cities in their own right. The rest consist of several villages grouped together into a single municipality.