Freelancing, coworking spaces

Are you arriving in the Grand Duchy and want to sell your expertise on your own behalf? More and morepeople today want to pursue their professional careers as freelancers.

Are you the spouse of an expatriate and want to earn extra income while managing your own schedule and business? The best way to balance family and professional life in Luxembourg is to become self-employed.

Why become self-employed in Luxembourg?

Self-employed workers carry out their activities on their own behalf, without the need to set up a specific company. They manage their entire business, including the payment of their expenses. But there are many advantages to being self-employed.

Identical social security coverage for employees and self-employed workers

Unlike in other countries, self-employed workers in Luxembourg enjoy the same benefits as employees in terms of social security coverage.

Pension insurance for self-employed workers in Luxembourg

Firstly, self-employed workers have the same rights as employees in terms of old-age pension insurance. By joining the general pension insurance scheme, self-employed workers are entitled to:

• an old-age pension from the age of 65, provided they have also contributed for at least 120 months,
• a disability pension in the event of health problems, if the self-employed worker has to cease their activity before reaching retirement age.

Maternity and parental leave for self-employed workers in Luxembourg

Self-employed workers have the same rights as employees with regard to maternity and parental leave.

Unemployment insurance for self-employed workers in Luxembourg

In the event of unemployment, self-employed workers will receive compensation under certain conditions.

The first condition is that they must be resident in Luxembourg at the time of ceasing their activity.

In addition, they must in all cases provide proof of contributions and affiliation to the Luxembourg social security system for at least two years, either as an employee or as a self-employed person. Furthermore, they must also provide proof that they have been working for at least six months.

Finally, if they wish to receive unemployment insurance, self-employed workers must register as job seekers with the ADEM.

Incapacity for work for self-employed persons in Luxembourg

In the event of incapacity for work, self-employed workers will receive benefits from the fourth month following the onset of incapacity.

If they wish, self-employed workers can register with the Mutualité des employeurs (Employers' Mutual Insurance Company) to compensate for any loss of income due to incapacity for work.

Payment of social security contributions by the self-employed worker

Self-employed workers must pay their social security contributions in full (both the employer's and employee's portions) based on their professional income.

For health, pension, and accident risks, the minimum contribution base is equivalent to the minimum social wage. The maximum cannot exceed five times the maximum social wage.

Contributions are payable to the CCSS on the basis of a monthly statement.

Accident insurance is calculated according to the risk class.

Financial and tax liability

Self-employed workers are indefinitely liable for debts and commitments related to their business on their personal assets.

From a tax perspective, a municipal business tax will be levied on operating profits. Entrepreneurs will be taxed on their income as individuals.

How to become self-employed in Luxembourg

No specific incorporation documents are required to practice your profession as a self-employed person in Luxembourg. You will also not have to pay any initial share capital. You will just have to complete a few basic administrative procedures.

Authorization to establish a business

The first step to becoming self-employed is to obtain a residence permit issued by the Ministry of Economy within 1 to 4 weeks.

Conditions for a work permit in Luxembourg

A valid business license is required to carry out a commercial or craft activity or to work as a self-employed professional or as part of a company.

To obtain a residence permit from the Ministry of Economy, you must provide proof of your skills and qualifications to work as a freelancer. Once you have provided the necessary supporting documents, you will be granted the right to practice your profession.

Documents to be provided for a business license

To obtain a work permit in Luxembourg, self-employed workers must prove their professional integrity and professional qualifications to practice the requested activity in Luxembourg. You must also prove that you effectively and permanently manage the business and that it complies with legal and tax obligations.

Entrepreneurs must submit the following documents along with their application for a settlement permit:

If you have been residing in Luxembourg for more than 10 years

• a sworn statement regarding any previous positions as a director, shareholding, or influence in a company during the last 3 years
• a Luxembourg criminal record (casier judiciaire n°3)

If you have been residing in Luxembourg for less than 10 years

• a sworn statement regarding any management positions held during the last 3 years
• a declaration of non-bankruptcy made under oath before a notary
• a criminal record extract issued by previous states of residence
• a Luxembourg criminal record extract no. 3.

Applicants must also provide proof of identity, a certificate of residence, and copies of the diplomas required to carry out their activity.

These documents must be translated by a certified translator into one of the three official languages.

If you are setting up a company in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, you must attach a draft of the articles of association.

Complete the application form for authorization to establish a business

You will need to pay a €24 stamp duty.

Registration with the Luxembourg Trade Register

Once you have received your business authorization, you must register with the Trade Register. This registration takes approximately 24 hours.

VAT number to work as a freelancer

To work as a freelancer, you will also need a VAT number. This will allow you to issue invoices with VAT. Note that this is not necessary if your annual turnover is less than €35,000. In this case, you can invoice without VAT. This can be an advantage for your customers when you are starting your business.

The VAT number must be requested from the Registration, Domains, and VAT Administration.

This step takes approximately 2 to 4 weeks.

Registration with the CCSS for self-employed workers

As a self-employed person, you must also register with the CCSS (Joint Social Security Center).

This will allow you to contribute to various insurance schemes, including health insurance and old-age pension insurance. You will also need to contribute to a specific accident insurance scheme depending on your profession.

Have you decided to take the plunge and set yourself up as a sole trader? Find out more at guichet.lu and Chambre des Métiers.

Is your self-employed business taking off and you want to expand? Set up your business in Luxembourg.

Are you the spouse of an expatriate? Why not become a teacher?

Freelance teacher in Luxembourg

The first instinct of an expatriate spouse is to look for opportunities on various job sites or job boards. Unfortunately, being the spouse of an expatriate can be a hindrance when looking for a job. Employers fear that you may leave if your spouse is suddenly transferred elsewhere. This is especially true given that the job market in Luxembourg is very dynamic. There is no shortage of candidates .

Why not become a freelance teacher? This option is often overlooked because it doesn't immediately spring to mind.

However, freelance work is attractive in Luxembourg and the formalities for setting up are fairly straightforward. Administrative registration is quick and, below a certain income threshold, it is possible to invoice tax-free.

Many parents are looking for teachers for extracurricular tutoring. International schools are also likely to be looking for teachers for primary or secondary classes.

So why not offer your services as a freelance teacher? To help you get started and learn more about the ins and outs of such an adventure, visit www.guichet.lu.

Civil servant teachers in Luxembourg schools

Teachers in Luxembourg schools have civil servant status.

Luxembourg teachers earn salaries that are 23% higher on average (source: OECD) than those of their counterparts of the same age and with equivalent levels of training.

What's more, with a relatively low student-teacher ratio of around 10 students per class, it can be an attractive option to work on your language skills and become a school teacher.

To become a "Joffer" in public schools, you must be fluent in the three official languages: Luxembourgish, German, and French. If this is the case and you have a bachelor's degree related to teaching, you can try your luck in the competitive exam organized by the Ministry of Education. It is actively recruiting.

Not interested in freelance work? Look for work in Luxembourg as an employee.

Working in coworking spaces

General principle of coworking

Are you an entrepreneur starting a startup and looking for a workspace? The benefits of coworking are well established. The principle of coworking is simple.

Coworking involves renting a fixed or flexible workspace that you share with other people.

Coworking spaces are booming in Luxembourg. Everyone can use them according to their needs, either sharing workspaces or renting a dedicated workstation or office. Users enjoy flexibility and affordable costs for a business that is just starting out. In addition to the infrastructure, there is also the possibility of benefiting from professional services at competitive prices.

The advantages of coworking for entrepreneurs

Highly appreciated by self-employed entrepreneurs and teleworkers, coworking spaces offer a real workplace outside the home at attractive rates.

Shared workspaces at a lower cost

Workers can use coworking spaces for a few hours, one or two days a week, or an entire month. These shared workspaces offer real flexibility to coworkers. In addition, coworking spaces provide a motivating and inspiring work environment. They allow for a real separation between private and professional life.

Members benefit from shared spaces and equipment.
If necessary, they can also rent a meeting room or use shared services.

Spaces for exchange within a professional community

Beyond simply sharing offices and logistical resources, it is also and above all about creating a real professional community.

Coworking spaces are primarily synonymous with the exchange of skills. Workers can share their knowledge and optimize their productivity through mutual inspiration.

Freelancers and start-up entrepreneurs can find all the benefits of a company in coworking spaces, while retaining their autonomy, flexibility, and control over their costs.

How do you choose a coworking space as a freelancer?

To choose your new workspace, you first need to answer a few fundamental questions. What are your needs and the purpose of your new shared work environment?

• Do you want a quiet place to work?
• Are you looking for a friendly place where you can interact with peers and build new working relationships?
• Do you need meeting rooms to receive clients?
• What kind of atmosphere are you looking for to spark your creative energy? What do you need to enjoy your work and be productive?
• What services do you need to grow your business?
• What are your working hours?

Depending on your business, choose a workspace that will give you the privacy you need or allow you to enjoy the conviviality of an open space.

Do you need to exchange ideas and find new sources of inspiration? Coworking is an excellent way to break out of isolation and develop your network. Choose a place where events are organized, such as after-work parties or networking breakfasts.

Need to unwind? Some workspaces also offer a gym, coffee area, or terrace.

Above all, don't hesitate to visit several coworking spaces to get a feel for the atmosphere and admire the decor. It's important to feel comfortable and in total harmony with the place. Some offer a trial day. Don't hesitate to ask for one.

Coworking spaces in Luxembourg

Shared workspaces are becoming increasingly popular in order to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and freelancers. There areseveral coworking spaces available in and around the Luxembourg capital. Here are a few of them. There are many more.

Check out the all-inclusive or à la carte service offerings. Choose a coworking package by the hour, day, or month.

Silversquare coworking space in Luxembourg

21 Rue Glesener in Luxembourg
Shared offices and private spaces on five floors covering more than 2,000 m². Access 24/7
Daily rates (30 euros). Hot Desk from 295 euros/month. Dedicated desk from 495 euros/month

Easyoffices, several shared spaces in Luxembourg

Coworking spaces located in Luxembourg, Leudelange (from $35/month), Livange, and Bertrange.

Urban Office, coworking offices

From €297/month (excluding VAT) for one dedicated workspace and unlimited access to shared spaces. Private locker, postal address, internet access, meeting rooms subject to availability, use of printer (100 pages/month)
Unlimited access to all Urban Office centers in Luxembourg City - Rue du Nord, Wecker, Windhof (Koerich), Bettembourg - Z.A.E. Wolser, Esch-Belval

Ginkgo Solutions Facilities

From €5/hour, unlimited access to the coworking space, services, and equipment during opening hours.
Several spaces:

• The Place - 2, place de Paris, L-2314 Luxembourg in a renovated and functional mansion, a 5-minute walk from the train station,
• The Avenue - 13-15, Avenue de la Liberté L-1931 Luxembourg, close to the train station and city center
• The City - 14-16, Avenue Pasteur L-2310 Luxembourg. Parking spaces. Fitness area with shower, lounge area with espresso bar, large equipped kitchen, private reception club for residents and their visitors.

The Corner

16a, avenue de la Liberté L-1930 Luxembourg
Three comfortable, modular meeting rooms for your meetings, bright offices

The Southlane

7 Avenue du Swing, 4024 Esch-sur-Alzette
Relaxation area and lunch

The Office

Coworking from €190 per month in two locations: 29 Boulevard G.D. Charlotte in Luxembourg, in a former garage, and Boulevard Prince Henri in Luxembourg, in a former library.

Cheaper offers are available for a few days per month with 24-hour access to the spaces and use of logistics facilities.
Multilingual, multicultural, and above all, multi-talented community. Ideal for creatives, freelancers, startups, and small businesses.
Dining area.

Regus for coworkers who need to travel

Several workspaces in Luxembourg, Senningerberg, Bertrange, Livange, etc. Regus offers fairly conventional solutions with dedicated offices. The coworking spaces are smaller.
However, the IWC group, which owns the Regus brands, offers new coworking spaces with "Spaces."

Spaces from the Regus group

Three locations in Luxembourg: Place de la Gare, Boulevard Royal, and Gasperich opposite the Cloche d'Or shopping center.
Accessible for 5, 10 days or a full month. Depending on the length of commitment, membership rates start at:

• €99/per person, 5 days per month
• €139/per person, 10 days per month
• €215/per month

Paladium

10A Rue du Puis in Luxembourg, covering an area of 300 m². Small size for a more friendly atmosphere and greater interaction. Several boxes with promising names: Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Marc Zuckerberg, and our master: Steve Jobs
Monthly coworking for €299/excl. VAT, access to all spaces, private office €499/month, Flex pass: full day €29/incl. VAT, half day €19/incl. VAT
Meeting rooms from €30/hour
2 spaces:
Central Station in Luxembourg City, in a former warehouse with an industrial feel, 5 minutes from the station.
Secret Garden in Bertrange: close to the Belgian border and major highways. Space designed like a speakeasy to recreate the relaxed atmosphere of old American underground bars during Prohibition.

Luxembourg City Incubator

9 Rue du Laboratoire in Luxembourg
From €300/month. Startup support program set up by the Chamber of Commerce and the City of Luxembourg. Admission based on specific criteria (innovation, development potential, etc.).

Facilitec

Located in Esch-sur-Alzette, this space promotes the ecological transition and circular economy movement. Everyone is actively involved in the life of the place.

• 20 coworking stations Flying Desk
• 10 fixed coworking stations
• Meeting room for 15 people
• Relaxation room
• Sunny Terrace
• Workshop
• Waste Sorting Area & Free Your Stuff
• Greenhouse
• Kitchen & Bathrooms

Color Business Center

Three coworking spaces located in Bertrange and Strassen, starting at €195 per month. Various services including:

• Business address
• Private workstation
• 24/7 access
• Meeting room 10 hours/month
• High-speed Wi-Fi
• Kitchen and lounge area
• Utilities and cleaning included
• Dedicated storage unit
• Group lunches

Bamhaus, creative coworking space

Coworking space located in Dommeldange within a creative agency. Ideal for small businesses, freelancers, and entrepreneurs looking for an inspiring environment
Coworking from €250 per month (excluding VAT) for:

• a fixed desk in a shared space
• Wi-Fi included
• access to shared equipment, free for personal use and 50% discount for commercial use
• Meeting room included (10 hours/month)

Are you interested in working as a freelancer? Find our practical information on entrepreneurship in Luxembourg.