I am writing to share my experience as an international PhD student at the University of Luxembourg. Before coming here, I completed my master’s degree in South Korea and later spent time in Finland. Luxembourg is widely recognised as one of the richest and safest countries in the world. Unfortunately, my experience with housing during my first months here has been deeply disappointing.
In South Korea, my experience with landlords was very positive. Contracts were detailed, transparent, and professionally prepared. All terms – including deposits, penalties, and conditions for leaving – were clearly written and explained in advance. Landlords were generally honest and fair, and there were no hidden clauses or unexpected financial demands. This gave tenants a sense of security and trust.
In Luxembourg, however, I encountered a very different reality. Finding accommodation is already difficult, but the greater challenge is the lack of standardised rental practices. Some landlords create their own contract rules, often written entirely in their favour. Conditions that seem minor at first can later result in significant financial loss.
When I first arrived in October, I rented a room advertised online. The actual conditions differed from the advertisement, but arriving late in the evening, I had no real alternative. Exhausted, I signed a contract presented to me. The following day, I was informed that registering my address would require an additional €200 – something never mentioned before signing. As a newcomer unfamiliar with local procedures, I felt pressured to accept.
Later, when I moved out due to ongoing practical issues in the apartment, part of my deposit was withheld under unclear conditions.
My second rental experience was even more troubling. When I informed the landlord that I would leave after securing university housing, I was told that my entire deposit would be kept as a penalty for early termination. When I questioned this, I was pressured and even threatened with an inappropriate and immoral action that I prefer not to describe publicly. As a foreign student alone in a new country, this situation was extremely distressing.
International students, especially those coming from outside Europe, are often unfamiliar with Luxembourg’s housing regulations. Many sign contracts in good faith, assuming fairness and transparency similar to what they experienced in other developed countries. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.
Luxembourg is a respected and beautiful country with a strong academic environment. However, clearer and standardised rental regulations, along with stronger oversight, are urgently needed to protect students and other vulnerable tenants. Transparency in contracts should not depend on the goodwill of individual landlords.
I share my experience in the hope that awareness can lead to improvement. No student should face financial uncertainty or psychological pressure simply for trying to secure a place to live while pursuing higher education.
Abdullah
PhD Student, SnT, University of Luxembourg, Kirchberg
