Luxembourg extends schengen visa program for short stays in 2025 

Luxembourg’s Short-Stay Visa, or Schengen Visa (Type C), remains in effect for 2025, allowing travellers short-term access to Luxembourg and freedom to move across Schengen Area countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day timeframe.

This visa aligns with Luxembourg’s participation in the Schengen framework, allowing easy travel across member countries without needing extra visas.

According to DAAD, the visa caters to various travel purposes, including tourism, business, cultural events, and short-term studies.

With a structured application process and clear eligibility requirements, the Short-Stay Visa serves a wide range of applicants looking to meet diverse travel needs within Luxembourg and neighbouring Schengen nations.

Approved travel purposes for the Luxembourg short-stay visa

The Luxembourg Short-Stay Visa supports several travel objectives for individuals wishing to visit Luxembourg or other Schengen states. Approved purposes for the visa include:

• Tourism: Visitors may explore Luxembourg’s cultural and scenic attractions.
• Family or Friends Visits: For travellers looking to spend time with family or friends residing in Luxembourg.
• Business Engagements: For those attending business meetings, conferences, or other professional events.
• Cultural and Sports Events: For participants or attendees of cultural festivals, artistic performances, or sports competitions.
• Medical Needs: For those seeking medical consultations or treatment within Luxembourg.
• Official Visits: Government officials travelling for diplomatic or other official missions.
• Short-Term Studies: Enrollments in brief educational programs or language courses are also permitted.

These options,  according to reports, provide travellers with flexible access to Luxembourg and the broader Schengen Area, making it easier to navigate different short-term travel requirements under one visa.

Key eligibility criteria for applicants 

DAAD informs that eligibility for the Luxembourg Short-Stay Visa involves meeting several criteria. Reports state that:

• Applicants must have a passport valid for at least three months beyond their planned departure date from the Schengen Area.
• They must also document their reason for travel, demonstrate sufficient financial means, and secure travel insurance covering at least €30,000, valid across all Schengen states.
• Proof of accommodation arrangements, such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a Luxembourg host, is required as well. Applicants are also vetted through the Schengen Information System (SIS) to confirm there are no security concerns.

Step-by-step guide to the application process 

To apply, travellers should first check if their nationality requires a visa, as citizens from certain countries may be exempt.

Eligible applicants must: 

• Complete the online application form,
• Gather all required documents—such as passport, photos, proof of purpose, financial documentation, travel insurance, accommodation details, and tickets—and
• Schedule an appointment at their local Luxembourg consulate or embassy.

The application appointment includes:  

• submitting documents and providing biometric data, such as fingerprints and photographs.
• Visa fees, as updated in June 2024, are €90 for adults and €45 for children aged 6-12.
• Processing times can vary, but applicants are advised to apply at least 15 days before their travel date to ensure timely results.

Recent changes to Luxembourg’s short-stay visa policies 

• In 2024, several changes were made to the Luxembourg Short-Stay Visa, including updated fees and new options for highly qualified workers. Visa fees increased to €90 for adults and €45 for children between ages 6-12.
• In July 2024, Luxembourg also implemented the EU Blue Card Directive, simplifying the visa process for third-country nationals with specific qualifications seeking work in Luxembourg, a step aimed at supporting skilled immigration.
• For further information, travellers are encouraged to consult Luxembourg’s official government resources or contact their local consulate or embassy.