Finding a Job in Luxembourg: ADEM, Job Portals and Networking That Actually Works

With around half of its workforce commuting across the border and a majority of foreign residents, Luxembourg's labour market is exceptionally open to newcomers — but it is also small, and many positions are filled through professional networks before being advertised.

Start with ADEM, even if you are not unemployed

The public employment agency ADEM is not reserved solely for benefit claimants. Any resident jobseeker can register, get assigned a dedicated advisor, access the JobBoard platform—where employers are legally required to declare vacancies 3 days prior to public release—and join free training programmes (languages, digital skills, sector-specific modules).

Where to look: the main channels

Languages: your key differentiator

French is the primary working language, English dominates finance and technology, while German and Luxembourgish are highly valued in retail, healthcare, and public-facing roles. Clearly state your language proficiency on your CV using the CEFR scale (A1 to C2). The National Institute for Languages (INL) and ADEM offer subsidised language courses.

A realistic action plan

1. Register with ADEM (by appointment or via MyGuichet.lu) and activate your JobBoard profile with an up-to-date CV.
2. Adapt your CV to local standards: 1–2 pages, structured language skills section with CEFR levels, optional photo; draft your cover letter in the exact language of the job posting.
3. Set up targeted job alerts on two or three main portals rather than sending generic applications.
4. Attend career events (Moovijob Day, sector forums) and professional networking sessions with printed copies of your CV.
5. Request informational interviews: a 20-minute chat with a professional in your field can often yield direct referrals in a small market.
6. Follow up on applications after 10–14 days and maintain a simple application tracker.

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals must obtain a valid employment contract prior to applying for a temporary stay authorization and work permit through the Directorate of Immigration.

Official sources

• ADEM – Services for jobseekers
• Guichet.lu – Looking for a job in Luxembourg
• STATEC – Labour market statistics