How to Find Jobs in Luxembourg for English Speakers in 2023
Luxembourg is a small but prosperous country in the heart of Europe, with a diverse and multicultural population. It is also home to many international institutions and companies, making it an attractive destination for English speakers looking for jobs.
But how can you find jobs in Luxembourg for English speakers? What are the requirements and opportunities? And what are the benefits and challenges of working and living in Luxembourg?
This article will answer these questions and provide tips and resources to help you find your dream job in Luxembourg.
Requirements for Working in Luxembourg
Luxembourg is a member of the European Union (EU), which means that citizens of other EU countries can work and live in Luxembourg without a visa or work permit. However, they still need to register with the local authorities within three months of arrival and obtain a social security number.
Non-EU citizens need to apply for a work permit before entering Luxembourg, which can be done through their employer or the Immigration Directorate. The type and duration of the work permit depend on the nature and length of the employment contract. Non-EU citizens must also apply for a residence permit within three months of arrival.
To work in Luxembourg, you must also have a good command of at least one of the official languages: French, German, or Luxembourgish. English is widely spoken in the business sector, but more is needed to know the other languages. Therefore, learning some basic phrases and expressions before moving to Luxembourg or enrolling in language courses once you are there is advisable.
Opportunities for English Speakers in Luxembourg
Luxembourg offers a variety of opportunities for English speakers, especially in sectors such as telecommunication, engineering, advertising, banking, media, IT, law, publishing, government, and much more.
Some of the most popular employers for English speakers in Luxembourg are:
- Lux-Airport: The national airport of Luxembourg, which employs agents de sûreté (security agents), who welcome and control the access of people and vehicles.
- Ecole Européenne Luxembourg I: The European School of Luxembourg I, employs teachers for English as a foreign language in the secondary cycle.
- Groupe Emile Weber: A transportation company that employs chauffeurs de minibus (minibus drivers), who transport passengers between different locations.
- alteox.com: A digital media company that employs online/digital marketers who assist customers in acquiring TV and VOD rights and developing white-label ICT and VOD products.
- Ritilux: A lighting company that employs administrative and commercial assistants who prepare offers, follow up orders, and contact customers and suppliers.
- DSV Air & Sea Luxembourg: A logistics company that employs marketing assistants who assist in organizing campaigns and developing marketing strategies.
- Cocottes: A catering company that employs assistants de direction (Executive assistants) who manage the administrative support for the management team.
- Yusen Logistics (UK): A freight forwarding company that employs import-export clerks who process import and export shipments and customs clearance.
- Ares Management: An investment management company that employs administrative assistants coordinating office management and travel arrangements.
- ArcelorMittal: A steel manufacturing company that employs multimodal shipment agents who analyze and report on the performance indicators and quality of service of shipments from external hubs.
These are just some examples of jobs in Luxembourg for English speakers. You can find more opportunities by browsing online job boards such as job.lu.
Benefits and Challenges of Working in Luxembourg
Working in Luxembourg has many benefits, such as:
- High salaries: Luxembourg has one of the highest average salaries in Europe, with a minimum wage of 2142 euros per month (as of January 2023) and an average wage of 6000 euros per month (as of May 2023).
- Low taxes: Luxembourg has a progressive tax system, with a maximum income tax rate of 42% (as of May 2023) and various deductions and allowances available.
- Social security: Luxembourg has a comprehensive social security system, which covers health care, pensions, unemployment benefits, family allowances, and more.
- Quality of life: Luxembourg has a high standard of living, with excellent public services, infrastructure, education, health care, culture, and leisure options.
- Multiculturalism: Luxembourg has a diverse and tolerant society, with people from over 170 nationalities living together peacefully. You can also enjoy the rich cultural heritage and cuisine of Luxembourg.
However, working in Luxembourg also has some challenges, such as:
- High cost of living: Luxembourg is one of the most expensive countries in Europe, with high prices for housing, food, transportation, education, and entertainment.
- Language barriers: Luxembourg has three official languages: French, German, and Luxembourgish. Although English is widely spoken in the business sector, you may face difficulties communicating with local authorities or service providers if you don’t speak other languages.
- Competition: Luxembourg is a small but competitive market, with many qualified professionals vying for limited job opportunities. You may need relevant experience, qualifications, and skills to stand out.
Tips for Finding Jobs in Luxembourg for English Speakers
To increase your chances of finding jobs in Luxembourg for English speakers, here are some tips:
- Update your CV: Make sure your CV is clear, concise, and tailored to the job you are applying for. Highlight your relevant skills, achievements, and language abilities. Use a Europass CV template if possible.
- Write a cover letter: Write a cover letter that explains why you are interested in working in Luxembourg and how you can contribute to the employer’s goals. Use formal language and avoid spelling or grammar mistakes.
- Network: Use your personal and professional contacts to find job openings or referrals. Attend networking events or join online platforms such as LinkedIn or Xing to connect with potential employers or recruiters.
- Prepare for interviews: Research the company and the position you are applying for before going to an interview. Dress professionally and arrive on time. Be confident but polite, and answer questions honestly and clearly. Ask relevant questions at the end to show your interest.
- Follow up: Send a thank-you email or letter after an interview to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest. Keep in touch with the employer until you receive a response.
Finding jobs in Luxembourg for English speakers can be challenging but rewarding. You need to meet specific requirements, such as having a work permit (if you are not an EU citizen) and knowing at least one of the official languages (French, German, or Luxembourgish). You must also search for opportunities in sectors that value your language skills, such as telecommunication, engineering, advertising, or banking.
You can benefit from working in Luxembourg by earning high salaries, paying low taxes, and enjoying a high quality of life. However, you must also cope with the high living costs, language barriers, and job competition.
To improve your chances of finding jobs in Luxembourg for English speakers, you need to update your CV, write a cover letter, network, prepare for interviews, and follow up.
We hope this article has given you some useful information and tips on how to find jobs in Luxembourg for English speakers.