US nationals
Move to Luxembourg from the USA
You are American, and Luxembourg is on your radar: a finance or tech role, or simply a solid base in Europe. The good news is that this is a very doable plan, as long as you pick the right route from the start. Here is how to move to Luxembourg from the USA, step by step, with advice that fits your case.
EU Blue Card Work permit Investor visa Check my score
Why so many Americans pick Luxembourg
Luxembourg pulls in Americans for down-to-earth reasons. It is the second largest fund center in the world, a banking and asset management hub where many US groups already run an office. Tech and fintech are hiring. The country works as a launchpad into the rest of the European Union, with a level of political and fiscal stability that is hard to find elsewhere. On a practical note, English is a common working language in finance and international roles, which takes a lot of the friction out of landing.
One thing many Americans learn late: as US nationals, you count as third-country nationals (non-EU). That means you need a residence permit to live and work in Luxembourg. No need to worry, several routes exist depending on your profile.
The main routes for Americans
- EU Blue Card: the flagship route for qualified, well-paid profiles (finance, tech, legal). The 2026 salary threshold is 65,652 EUR per year, lowered to 47,174 EUR for certain shortage occupations. See the EU Blue Card.
- Salaried work permit: for a role that does not meet the Blue Card criteria. Details on the work permit.
- Investor route: for a meaningful investment in the Luxembourg economy, via the investor visa.
- Company formation: for entrepreneurs who want to set up their own structure and run it as directors. See company formation.
- Family reunification: to bring your spouse and children once your permit is granted, via family reunification.
US taxation: a topic of its own
The United States taxes its citizens on worldwide income, wherever they live. This citizenship-based taxation, along with FATCA reporting (declaring your foreign accounts), follows Americans to Luxembourg. It is not a roadblock, but it needs planning. We do not give tax advice: we coordinate your file with US and Luxembourg tax specialists so everything is in order before and after you move.
Wealth and high-net-worth profiles
For wealthy Americans, Luxembourg is also a respected wealth management center. Beyond the residence permit, many build their move around a family office or look to protect their wealth within a stable framework. Here too, we coordinate the immigration side and point you to the right specialists for the wealth and tax pieces.
Toward the long term and citizenship
Moving over is just the start. After several years of residence, you can aim for long-term residence, then naturalisation. Worth knowing for Americans: Luxembourg allows dual nationality, so you do not have to give up your US citizenship. See naturalisation.
Ready to start your Luxembourg plan?
Let's talk through your situation and map the best route to move to Luxembourg from the USA.
immigrate.lu is an immigration advisory house published by Financial Services Luxembourg SARL-S. Reserved legal acts are handled by Maître Cora Maglo, avocate à la Cour (CERNO Law Firm), Luxembourg Bar.
FAQ
Can an American move to Luxembourg from the USA without an employer?+
You can move to Luxembourg from the USA without an employer: the investor and company formation routes are built for Americans who do not arrive with a salaried contract. An investment project or a company you direct can support a residence permit. We assess which one fits your situation.
Do Americans need a visa to live in Luxembourg?+
Yes, Americans need a residence permit to live in Luxembourg, because US nationals count as third-country nationals (non-EU). A short tourist stay is not enough to settle or work: you need the right authorisation, obtained before arrival depending on the route you choose.
What is the best route for an American finance professional?+
For a well-paid American finance or tech professional, the EU Blue Card is often the best route. The 2026 salary threshold is 65,652 EUR per year, lowered to 47,174 EUR for certain shortage occupations. We confirm your eligibility before opening the file.
Do I have to give up my US citizenship to naturalise in Luxembourg?+
No, you do not have to give up your US citizenship: Luxembourg allows dual nationality. An American who naturalises in Luxembourg can, on the Luxembourg side, keep US citizenship. The US-side consequences are a matter for specialists, whom we can point you to.
How do I handle US taxation and FATCA when moving to Luxembourg?+
US taxation and FATCA still apply after you move to Luxembourg, because the United States taxes on citizenship. We do not give tax advice: we coordinate your file with US and Luxembourg tax specialists so your obligations are anticipated properly.
How long does it take to move to Luxembourg from the USA?+
The time it takes to move to Luxembourg from the USA depends on the route and your file. The steps usually run over several weeks to a few months. We do not guarantee a fixed timeline, but we give you a realistic range once we have reviewed your situation.