Luxembourg Visa Permitted & Non-Permitted Activities (2025)

This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor, to ensure accuracy under current EU and Luxembourg immigration guidance. You can confirm current rates and costs through our Luxembourg Visa Application Guide.

A Luxembourg visa allows travel to Luxembourg and other Schengen countries for a limited period. However, visa holders must comply with the specific activities authorised by their visa type. Engaging in unauthorised work or long-term residence can lead to refusal of entry, fines, or future travel bans.

Permitted Activities for Short-Stay (Type C) Visa Holders

If you hold a Luxembourg or Schengen short-stay visa (valid for up to 90 days in any 180-day period), you may:

• Travel freely within Luxembourg and the Schengen Area.
• Attend business meetings, trade fairs or professional events without payment from a local employer.
• Visit family and friends residing in Luxembourg.
• Participate in short academic, cultural, or sporting events.
• Receive private medical treatment or attend health consultations.
• Take short-term training courses or language classes (under 90 days).
• Travel for tourism and recreation.

Permitted Activities for Long-Stay (Type D) Visa Holders

Type D visas allow stays over 90 days for specific purposes such as:

• Employment in Luxembourg with a valid work permit and residence authorisation.
• Full-time study at a recognised institution.
• Scientific research or training placements.
• Family reunification with EU citizens or legal residents.

Non-Permitted Activities for Short-Stay Visas

Visitors holding a Luxembourg short-stay visa cannot:

• Take up paid employment or self-employment in Luxembourg or any Schengen state.
• Engage in long-term study programmes exceeding 90 days.
• Apply for residence permits or change visa status while in Luxembourg.
• Access public funds or social benefits.
• Stay beyond the authorised period without an approved extension.

Penalties for Breaching Visa Conditions

Violating Luxembourg or Schengen visa rules can result in:

• Immediate visa cancellation and deportation.
• Fines or administrative penalties imposed by Luxembourg authorities.
• Schengen-wide entry bans of up to five years.

Extending Your Luxembourg Visa

Visa extensions are only granted in exceptional cases — for example, serious illness or flight cancellations beyond your control. To learn more, see Extend a Luxembourg Visa (2025).

Related Guidance

• Eligibility Requirements (2025)
• Documents Checklist (2025)
• Proof of Funds (2025)
• How to Apply for a Luxembourg Visa (2025)

People Also Asked

Can I work in Luxembourg with a Schengen visa?
No. Employment is strictly prohibited under a Schengen short-stay visa.

Can I attend a business meeting on a Luxembourg visa?
Yes, you may attend meetings or conferences as long as you are not paid by a Luxembourg company.

Can I study with a tourist visa?
Only for courses lasting fewer than 90 days. For longer study programmes, apply for a Type D visa.

Can I extend my Schengen visa in Luxembourg?
Only in exceptional circumstances such as medical emergencies or unforeseen events.

What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying may lead to fines, deportation, and a multi-year entry ban across the Schengen Area.

About This Page

Author: Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor.
Last Updated: November 2025.