Holiday jobs and student work in Luxembourg: What under-18s need to know

Whether in a shop, office, or restaurant, there is strong motivation to gain independence, and working at 16 during summer holidays is nothing new.

But what is the legal framework? What rules apply in Luxembourg when minors want to work? And what applies to those under 16? A look at the regulations shows that the law offers particularly strict protection for young people.

Strict framework for those under 18

In Luxembourg, people under 18 are classified as 'young workers' and subject to a specific protection regime. This does not mean they cannot work, but work must take place within clearly defined frameworks. The law distinguishes between work during school holidays and a formal contract during the year.

Young people can work from their 15th birthday, but a triple, written contract is required: one for the employer, one for the worker, and one for the Labour and Mines Inspectorate (ITM), which must be informed of the conditions. The contract must be filed with the ITM within seven days of the job starting. Parents or legal guardians must consent and often co-sign.

Working hours are strictly limited. Minors may not work more than eight hours per day and 40 hours per week. Exceptions apply only in case of temporary peak periods, when nine hours a day are allowed, but never more than 44 hours per week.

After four hours of work, a break of at least 30 minutes is required. There must also be an 11-hour rest period between shifts, and each week must include a break of at least 44 consecutive hours.

What applies to a regular contract?

If a young person wants to take a regular fixed-term job (CDD), for example outside school hours or on weekends, they must be at least 16 and enrolled in education or training. Unlike a holiday job, this work is allowed during the school year but is further restricted: no more than 15 hours of work per week and schooling must not suffer.

Pay is generally based on the qualified minimum wage, which as of July 2025 is €15.63 per hour or €2,703.74 per month. However, minors receive a portion of this: 80% for 17- to 18-year-olds (€12.50 per hour or €2,162.99 per month) and 75% for 15- to 17-year-olds (€11.72 per hour or €2,027.80 per month).

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Simplified social security rules apply to holiday jobs, with no deductions for pension or health insurance, though employers must provide accident insurance. For CDD workers, normal legal contributions apply.

Young people under 15: what is allowed?

For young people under 15 or those still subject to compulsory schooling, work is generally prohibited. Only very limited exceptions apply, such as cultural or artistic activities like theatre, music or film, and only with authorisation from the Ministry of Labour.

Parental consent is required and the young person must not be put at physical or psychological risk. Regular jobs for this age group are prohibited and employers are legally obliged to refuse.

Not all work is permitted

The type of work also matters. Minors are not allowed to work in dangerous environments, including jobs involving toxic substances, heavy physical labour or a high risk of injury. Night and Sunday work are also generally prohibited, though exceptions exist for specific activities such as culture or gastronomy.

Working, but with responsibility

Luxembourg law sets clear limits for employing minors, aimed at protecting their health and education. It remains the responsibility of employers and parents to ensure compliance. Young people themselves are advised to be well informed and never to sign a contract without clearly understanding the working conditions.

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More information about labour law and work for minors can be obtained from the Chambre des Salariés and Jugendinfo.