International residents feel welcome in Luxembourg

Why international residents feel at home

A recent independent survey of 600 international residents (non-Luxembourgish nationals living in the country) has shed light on how they truly feel about their lives in the Grand Duchy. According to reporting by RTL Today on a study conducted by Quest Market Intelligence, an independent Luxembourg-based research firm, the vast majority of international residents feel highly welcome and see a long-term future for themselves in the country.

The survey revealed that almost half of the respondents gave the highest possible scores when asked how welcome they personally feel. Most described themselves as either "like a welcomed guest" or "fully at home", with only 3% feeling like outsiders. Furthermore, a clear majority would actively recommend Luxembourg as a highly attractive place to live.

Key factors attracting international residents

When asked what makes the country so attractive, respondents pointed to a wide range of strengths rather than a single factor. The most frequently highlighted benefits include:

• The high quality of public services
• Excellent safety and security
• Multilingualism and a vibrant international environment
• Strong social benefits and beautiful natural surroundings
• Promising career opportunities

Navigating the challenges of housing and integration

While the overall picture is highly positive, the study does not shy away from the practical hurdles of daily life. Unsurprisingly, housing costs topped the list of frustrations, with 78% of respondents identifying this as a major concern. The general cost of everyday life was also cited as a frustration by 50% of those surveyed, alongside other challenges such as access to public sector jobs and social integration.

When it comes to building social connections, the experience is highly personal. The survey found that opinions are evenly split on how easy it is to form meaningful relationships with Luxembourg nationals. However, integration is clearly a journey that gets easier over time. While fewer than half of those who arrived less than five years ago find it easy to make these connections, this figure rises steadily for long-term residents.

There are also mixed views regarding equal treatment. While the majority of respondents feel they are treated respectfully, more than one in four believe that international residents are not always treated as fairly as Luxembourgers, suggesting that work remains to be done on local inclusion.

Building a long-term future in Luxembourg

Notwithstanding these practical challenges, international residents are remarkably committed to making Luxembourg their permanent home. Nearly three out of four respondents believe it is likely that they will still be living in Luxembourg in five years' time. The study clearly shows that the longer people reside here, the more they view the country as a place to build a stable future rather than just a temporary stopover.

International residents are remarkably committed to making Luxembourg their permanent home.

In summary, the study paints a picture of a country where international residents feel genuinely welcome and see a long-term future. While housing costs and social integration remain areas for improvement, Luxembourg's combination of safety, multilingualism, strong public services and career opportunities continues to make it a destination of choice for international professionals and their families.

Photo credits: Alfonso Salgueiro