Obtain a Business Permit in Luxembourg

Obtaining a business permit in Luxembourg is subject to certain conditions imposed based on the activity of a company. If you need support in this endeavour, one of our agents for setting up companies in Luxembourg can represent and help you.

Are all companies in Luxembourg required to obtain a business permit?

Yes, however, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Given the fact that there are various types of business licenses to obtain, it is best to check the type that you need beforehand, as well as the available exceptions. The simplest and fastest way to do that is to enquire with our local specialists.

Can I apply for a Luxembourg business permit remotely?

Yes, with the help of our local specialists. It is also recommended to complete the procedure this way, as the license is issued sooner.

Who is exempt from applying for a business license in Luxembourg?

Individuals who put their own products for sale, namely artwork, recycled products, or artisanal food products, do not have to apply for a business license in Luxembourg.

Do I need to obtain a business permit if I work as a sole trader/self-employee in Luxembourg?

Yes. As a matter of fact, there are several types of licenses available for sole proprietorships in Luxembourg.

What are the conditions to obtain a business license in Luxembourg?

To obtain a Luxembourg business permit, a company or person must meet specific requirements, such as:

have the necessary qualifications;
have professional integrity (usually, a clean criminal record is required in this case).

With respect to the person who can apply for a business license, one can be:

the owner of the enterprise (this is often the case with self-employed people);
a legal representative of a company;
a manager of a company.

Here is also our infographic on this subject:

What documents must I provide to obtain a business permit in Luxembourg?

standard application for obtaining a business license in Luxembourg;
proof of payment of the relevant chancery fee (droits de chancellerie) of EUR 50;
recent legal record;
copy of the identity card;
declaration of “non-bankruptcy”, respectively, information about the business background, if you have not experienced such problems.

Are there any procedures to go through before applying for a business license in Luxembourg?

Yes, because licensing is usually the last step in the Luxembourg company registration procedure. Therefore, you must first:

obtain a tax code and register for VAT (if required);
register for employment, if necessary.

Is there any general business permit to cover all activities in Luxembourg?

No. There is no business license to cover all operations.

How are business licenses categorized in Luxembourg?

You can apply for:

a commercial license which covers most trades in Luxembourg, and which is issued by the Ministry of Economy;
a craft activity permit, which covers craft (artisanal) activities, whether carried out by a sole trader or by a company;
a professional license, which must be obtained by certain liberal professions such as architects, consulting engineers or chartered accountants (dentists and doctors fall under separate laws)

Specifically:

those who want to open a restaurant, a bar, a hotel, or a transport company in Luxembourg must apply for a business permit in Luxembourg;
likewise, those who want to work in the field of entertainment, audiovisual, engineering, or construction must have such a permit;
business permits for traders in Luxembourg are required for self-employed sales agents;
veterinarians who want to open a clinic in Luxembourg, lawyers, auditors and dentists do not need a business permit, as they are authorised under their own professional laws.

How much does it cost to obtain a business license in Luxembourg?

The fees associated with obtaining a business permit in Luxembourg depend on the type of license requested.

How long does it take to obtain a business permit in Luxembourg?

3 months.

What is the validity of a business permit in Luxembourg?

Business licenses do not expire unless exceptional situations arise, such as:

a company goes bankrupt;
the business does not declare the change of the manager’s place of residence;
the entity remains inactive for 2 years.

Therefore, if you want to obtain a business permit in Luxembourg, we invite you to contact us. Our local agents can help you with company formation in Luxembourg and the licenses you need.