Marrying a citizen of Luxembourg can provide the opportunity to obtain dual citizenship and an EU passport. But navigating the application process requires meeting strict requirements and plenty of paperwork.
This guide covers all the key steps and tips to successfully get Luxembourg citizenship through marriage.
What Are the Benefits?
Before diving into the process, it helps to understand the many privileges that come with Luxembourg citizenship:
- Live and work anywhere in the European Union.
- Education and healthcare benefits enjoyed by EU citizens.
- Visa-free travel to over 180 countries worldwide.
- Voting rights and full participation in the political process.
- Protection and assistance from Luxembourg diplomats abroad.
- Ability to own property and conduct business in Luxembourg.
- Passport readiness for any children born after naturalization.
Gaining these rights makes the effort worthwhile for many applicants.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for naturalization through marriage in Luxembourg, the main requirements are:
- Legally married to a Luxembourg citizen for a minimum of 3 years.
- Both spouses have continuously resided together in Luxembourg during those 3 years.
- Pass cultural knowledge and language exams.
- Have a clean criminal background.
- Be employed or financially stable.
- Renounce any current citizenship from another country.
As long as you meet these eligibility criteria, you can proceed with the process.
What Documents Are Required?
A variety of official documents must be submitted along with the citizenship application. Having these papers ready ahead of time prevents delays:
- Fully completed and signed application form.
- Certified copies of birth certificates.
- Original and copied marriage certificate.
- Valid passports for both spouses.
- Passport photos.
- Proof of shared residence such as leases or utility bills.
- Language exam certificate.
- Police record extracts showing no convictions.
- Evidence of financial means through employment or savings.
Carefully organizing these documents makes the process smoother.
How Is the Application Submitted?
Once ready, you can file for citizenship through either of these methods:
- In person at the Ministry of Justice office by booking an appointment. This is the fastest option.
- By registered mail to the Ministry of Justice office. Allow extra time for processing.
The application fee is 50 EUR. After submission, you will receive a receipt confirming it’s been accepted.
What Tests Need to Be Passed?
These exams are required to show integration with Luxembourg society:
Language Exam
- Assesses reading, writing, listening and speaking ability in Luxembourgish.
- Current required level is basic A2 CEFR proficiency.
- Takes around 3 hours total to complete written and oral sections.
Culture Exam
- 30-minute, 24-question multiple choice test on Luxembourg’s society, government and history.
- Study guides are available to prepare for this exam.
Interview
- Discussion with an official covering your motivations, background, language abilities and readiness for citizenship.
- Usually lasts 15-20 minutes and may involve conversing in Luxembourgish.
Thorough preparation is key to passing these examinations.
What Is the Approval Process?
It takes approximately 12-18 months to get a decision after submitting the application. Outcomes can be:
- Approval: If accepted, you must complete the naturalization process within 5 years.
- Request for Additional Documents: The ministry may ask for more paperwork to support your eligibility.
- Rejection: If denied, you must wait 1 year before reapplying for citizenship.
With persistence and meticulous attention to detail, your efforts can lead to the enormous benefits of Luxembourgish and EU citizenship.