Freelancing, coworking spaces

Are you moving to the Grand Duchy and looking to put your skills to work as a freelancer? More and morepeople todayare choosing to pursue their careers as self-employed professionals.

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

Why become self-employed in Luxembourg?

Self-employed individuals work on their own behalf without needing to set up a specific company. They manage all aspects of their business, including paying their own taxes and social security contributions. However, there are many benefits to working as a self-employed individual.

Social security coverage identical for employees and self-employed workers

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

Pension insurance for the self-employed in Luxembourg

First and foremost, self-employed workers have the same rights as employees regarding old-age pension insurance. By joining the general pension insurance scheme, self-employed workers are entitled to:

• a retirement pension starting at age 65, provided they have also contributed for at least 120 months,
• a disability pension in the event of health issues, if the self-employed worker must cease their activity before reaching retirement age.

Maternity and Parental Leave for the Self-Employed in Luxembourg

Self-employed workers have the same rights as employees regarding maternity and parental leave.

Unemployment insurance for self-employed workers in Luxembourg

In the event of unemployment, self-employed individuals are eligible for benefits under certain conditions.

The first condition is that they must be residing in Luxembourg at the time their business ceases operations.

In addition, they must in any case provide proof of contributions and membership in the Luxembourg social security system for at least 2 years, either as an employee or a self-employed person. Furthermore, they must also provide proof of having carried out their business activity for at least 6 months.

Finally, to be eligible for unemployment insurance, the self-employed individual must register as a job seeker with ADEM.

Incapacity for work among self-employed individuals in Luxembourg

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

If they wish, self-employed individuals may enroll in the Employers’ Mutual Insurance Fund to offset any loss of income resulting from an inability to work.

Payment of social security contributions by the self-employed

Self-employed individuals must pay their full social security contributions (both employer and employee portions) based on their professional income.

For health, pension, and accident coverage, 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 based on a monthly statement.

Accident insurance premiums are calculated based on the risk class.

Financial and Tax Liability

The self-employed worker is personally liable indefinitely for debts and obligations related to the business using their personal assets.

From a tax perspective, a municipal business tax will be levied on operating profit. The entrepreneur, meanwhile, will be taxed on their income as an individual.

How to become self-employed in Luxembourg?

To practice your profession as a self-employed individual in Luxembourg, no specific incorporation documents are required. You also do not need to contribute any initial capital. You will simply need to complete a few basic administrative steps.

Establishment Permit

The first step to working as a self-employed individual is obtaining a business license issued by the Ministry of the Economy within 1 to 4 weeks.

Conditions for a business license in Luxembourg

A valid establishment permit is mandatory to carry out a commercial, craft, or professional activity, whether as a self-employed individual or through a company.

To obtain a residence permit from the Ministry of the Economy, you must demonstrate your skills and qualifications to practice your profession as a self-employed individual. Upon submission of the required supporting documents, you will be granted the right to practice your profession.

Documents Required for a Residence Permit

To obtain a business license in Luxembourg, a self-employed individual must demonstrate professional integrity and the professional qualifications required to carry out the requested activity in Luxembourg. You must also prove that you effectively and continuously manage the business, as well as its compliance with legal and tax obligations.

The entrepreneur must submit the following documents along with their application for a residence permit:

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

• a sworn statement regarding previous executive positions, ownership of shares, or influence in a company over the past 3 years
• a Luxembourg criminal record (No. 3)

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

• a sworn statement regarding any executive positions held over the past 3 years
• a sworn statement of non-bankruptcy made before a notary
• a criminal record extract issued by previous countries of residence
• a Luxembourg criminal record extract No. 3.

The applicant must also provide a valid ID, a certificate of residence, and copies of the diplomas required to practice their profession.

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

If you are establishing a company in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, you must include a draft of the articles of incorporation.

Complete the application form for a residence permit

You must pay a 24-euro stamp duty.

Registration with the Luxembourg Commercial Register

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

VAT number for self-employment

To operate as a self-employed individual, you must also have a VAT number. This will allow you to issue invoices with VAT included. Note that this is not required if your annual turnover is less than 35,000 euros. In this case, you may invoice without VAT. This can be an advantage for your clients when you are starting your business.

You must apply for a VAT number from the Registry, Property, and VAT Administration.

This process takes approximately 2 to 4 weeks.

Registration with the CCSS for self-employed workers

As a self-employed worker, you must also register with the CCSS (Common Center for Social Security).

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

Ready to take the plunge and set up as a sole proprietor? Learn more at guichet.lu and the Chamber of Trades.

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

Spouse of an expatriate—why not become a teacher?

Freelance Teacher in Luxembourg

The first instinct of an expat spouse is to search for opportunities on various job sites or “job boards.” Unfortunately, the status of an expat spouse can be a hindrance in the job search. Employers worry about the possibility of you leaving 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 .

So why not become a freelance teacher? This option is often overlooked simply because it doesn’t occur to people.

However, freelance work is a viable option in Luxembourg, and the administrative requirements to get started are relatively straightforward. Registration is quick, and below a certain income threshold, you can bill clients without including tax.

Many parents are looking for tutors for after-school tutoring. International schools may also be seeking teachers for elementary or secondary grades.

So, why not offer your services as an independent teacher? To get support and learn the ins and outs of such an endeavor, 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 training.

Furthermore, with a relatively low student-to-teacher ratio of about 10 students per class, it can be worthwhile to hone 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 you meet these requirements and hold a bachelor’s degree in a field related to education, you can try your luck in the competitive exam organized by the Ministry of National Education. They are actively recruiting.

Not interested in self-employment? Look for work in Luxembourg as an employee.

Working in coworking spaces

The general principle of coworking

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

Coworking involves renting a workspace—either fixed or flexible—that you’ll share with others.

Coworking spaces are booming in Luxembourg. Everyone can access shared workspaces based on their needs or rent a dedicated workstation or office. Users find flexibility and affordable costs for a business just getting started. Beyond the facilities, there’s also the opportunity to access professional services at competitive rates.

The Benefits of Coworking for Entrepreneurs

Highly valued by self-employed individuals and remote workers, coworking spaces offer a real workplace outside the home at attractive rates.

Low-cost shared workspaces

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. Additionally, coworking spaces provide a motivating and inspiring work environment. They allow for a clear separation between personal and professional life.

Members benefit from shared spaces and equipment made available to them.
If needed, they can also rent a meeting room or use shared services.

Spaces for interaction within a professional community

Beyond simply sharing offices and logistical resources, the goal is also—and above all—to create a true professional community.

Indeed, coworking spaces are first and foremost about exchanging skills. Workers can share their knowledge there and also boost their productivity through shared inspiration.

Freelancers and startup founders can find all the benefits of a company in coworking spaces, while maintaining their autonomy, flexibility, and control over their costs.

How should a freelancer choose a coworking space?

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

• Are you looking for a quiet place to work?
• Are you looking for a friendly place where you can network with peers and build new professional relationships?
• Do you need meeting rooms to host clients?
• What kind of atmosphere are you looking for to spark your creativity? 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 allow you to enjoy the privacy you need or the camaraderie of an open space.

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

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

Above all, don’t hesitate to visit several coworking spaces to get a feel for the atmosphere and check out the decor. It’s important to feel comfortable and in total harmony with the space. Some offer a trial day—don’t hesitate to ask for one.

Coworking Spaces in Luxembourg

Shared workspaces are becoming increasingly popular to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and freelancers. Several coworkingspaces are available in Luxembourg City or nearby. Here are a few of them. There are many more.

Explore all-inclusive or à la carte service options. Choose a coworking plan by the hour, by the day, or by the month.

Silversquare coworking space in Luxembourg

21 Rue Glesener in Luxembourg
Shared offices and private spaces across 5 floors and over 2,000 m². 24/7 access
Daily rates (30 euros). Hot Desk starting at 295 euros/month. Dedicated desk starting at 495 euros/month

Easyoffices, several shared spaces in Luxembourg

Coworking spaces located in Luxembourg, Leudelange (starting at 259 euros per month), Livange, and Bertrange.

Urban Office, coworking offices

Starting at €297/month (excl. VAT) for one dedicated workstation and unlimited access to common areas. Private locker, mailing address, internet access, meeting rooms (subject to availability), printer use (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

Starting at €5/hour, unlimited access to the coworking space, services, and equipment during business hours.
Multiple locations:

• 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, near the train station and downtown
• The City - 14-16, Avenue Pasteur, L-2310 Luxembourg. Parking spaces. Fitness area with shower, a lounge area with an espresso bar, a large fully equipped kitchen, and a private reception club for residents and their visitors.

The Corner

16a, Avenue de la Liberté L-1930 Luxembourg
3 flexible and comfortable meeting rooms for your gatherings, bright offices

The Southlane

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

The Office

Coworking starting at 190 euros per month in two locations: 29 Boulevard G.D. Charlotte in Luxembourg City in a former garage and Boulevard Prince Henri in Luxembourg City in a former library.

Cheaper options are available for a few days a month, with 24/7 access to the spaces and use of shared resources.
A multilingual, multicultural, and above all multi-talented community. Ideal for creatives, freelancers, startups, and small businesses
Catering area.

Regus for coworkers who need to travel

Several workspaces in Luxembourg, Senningerberg, Bertrange, Livange, … Regus offers more conventional solutions with dedicated offices. The coworking spaces are smaller.
However, the IWC Group, owner of the Regus brands, offers new coworking spaces under the “Spaces” brand

Regus Group Spaces

3 locations in Luxembourg: Place de la Gare, Boulevard Royal, and Gasperich across from the Cloche d’Or shopping center.
Available for 5 days, 10 days, or a full month. Depending on the commitment period, membership rates start at:

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

Paladium

10A Rue du Puis in Luxembourg, covering 300 m². Prioritizes a small size for a more welcoming atmosphere and interaction. Several private offices with inspiring names: Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and our inspiration to all: Steve Jobs
Monthly coworking for €299/excl. tax, access to all spaces; private office €499/month; Flex pass: full day €29/incl. tax, half-day €19/incl. tax
Meeting rooms starting at €30/hour
2 locations:
Central Station in Luxembourg City, in a former warehouse with an industrial vibe, 5 minutes from the train station.
Secret Garden in Bertrange: near the Belgian border and major highways. A space designed like a speakeasy to recreate the laid-back atmosphere of old American speakeasies during Prohibition.

Luxembourg City Incubator

9 Rue du Laboratoire in Luxembourg
Starting at 300 euros/month. Startup support program established by the Chamber of Commerce and the City of Luxembourg. Admission based on application and specific criteria (innovation, growth potential, etc.)

Facilitec

Located in Esch-sur-Alzette, this space promotes the ecological transition and the circular economy. Everyone actively contributes to the life of the space.

• 20 Flying Desk Coworking Spots
• 10 Fixed Coworking Stations
• Meeting room for 15 people
• Relaxation Room
• Sunny Terrace
• Workshop
• Waste Sorting Area & Free Your Stuff
• Greenhouse
• Kitchen & Restrooms

Color Business Center

3 coworking spaces located in Bertrange and Strassen, starting at 195 euros 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, a 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 starting at 250 euros (excl. tax) per month for:

• a dedicated 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.