The rise was outlined in the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs’ activity 2024 report (available here in French). The remarkable increase in applications highlights Luxembourg’s rapidly evolving role in the Schengen area, driven by growing international interest, particularly from India, Turkey, and China.
Of all visa categories, family reunification was a major driver, comprising 9,009 applications. Indian nationals topped this list with 5,495 submissions. The increase in family visas suggests a shift towards longer-term migration patterns.
The strongest overall demand originates from India, Turkey, and China, with the main application processing centres in New Delhi (4,058), Ankara (3,299), and Beijing (1,951). Indian citizens led overall applications at 5,495, reflecting expanding business ties, accessible flight connectivity, and more efficient visa processing channels between India and Luxembourg.
Luxembourg’s economy and increasingly respected educational institutions continue to attract skilled professionals and international students. Business visa applications reached 5,600, and study-related visas accounted for 4,624 applications. Luxembourg’s strategic investments in higher education and innovative business sectors place the country as a centre for professional advancement and academic excellence – the increase can be viewed as a dividend of that investment.
With substantial increases in visa applications, Luxembourg’s diplomatic missions in New Delhi, Ankara, and Beijing face heightened operational demands. The surge will likely require strategic enhancements and investment to visa processing capabilities to maintain efficiency and effectiveness.
The sharp increase in visa applications reflects Luxembourg’s evolving identity within Europe as it further transitions into a globally recognised hub for travel, employment, education, and family settlement. Continued growth will provide new challenges, especially in terms of processing, housing, and access to services – should the trend continue.
In the article titled Dramatic rise in visa applications for 2024, published by RTL Today on 19 April 2025, we incorrectly reported a 173% rise in visa applications, stating that applications increased from 11,227 in 2023 to 30,677 in 2024.
The correct figures, according to the official activity report from the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, show that visa applications rose from 26,029 in 2023 to 30,677 in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 17.8%, not 173% as previously reported – which is the case for specific regions, but not applications as a whole.
We apologise for this error and any confusion caused, and remain committed to ensuring accuracy and reliability in our reporting.
