Updated on
07/07/2025
Student Contract (Academic)
What is an academic student contract? - A student contract during the academic year is a fixed-term employment contract that allows students to work part-time during the school term in Luxembourg. This contract is available to individuals aged 16 to 26 (who have not yet turned 27) who are enrolled in full-time, either in Luxembourg, abroad or who have completed their studies within the previous four months. It enables students to gain professional experience while continuing their studies.
When can this contract be used? - This contract can be used only during the academic year, that is, outside the official school holiday periods as defined by the Ministry of Education. It is designed for students who wish to work part-time while studying, ensuring legal compliance and flexibility.
How many hours can a student work? - Students may work up to 15 hours per week, calculated as a maximum of 60 hours per month averaged over four weeks, during school terms. These limits are lifted during official school holidays, when the holiday student contract rules apply. However, the combined annual maximum across all student contracts with the same employer remains 346 hours or two months per calendar year.
Can students work on Sundays or public holidays? - Yes, but only adult students (those who are 18 or older) employed under a holiday or academic year student contract may work on Sundays or public holidays. This is common in sectors such as hospitality (HORECA), where standard overtime pay rules apply. For minors, working on Sundays or public holidays is generally prohibited, and employers must always comply with youth employment protection laws.
What must the contract include? - The contract must be in writing and signed no later than the first day of work. It must be prepared in three copies: one for the student, one for the employer, and one for the Labour Inspectorate (ITM). The contract must include the following details:
- Student’s full name, date of birth, and address (student must notify the employer of any address changes)
- Employer’s name and address
- Start and end dates (in dd/mm/yyyy format)
- Work location
- Job description (does not need to match the student’s field of study)
- Daily and weekly working hours
- Wage and payment terms
- Accommodation details, if provided
Important: A copy of the contract and the student’s ID must be submitted to the ITM within seven days of the contract start date, either by post or via MyGuichet. If the contract is not written or is signed late, the employment relationship may be reclassified as a permanent contract (CDI).
What are the salary and social security requirements? - The main salary and social security requirements for academic year student contracts are as follows:
- Minimum wage: Students must receive at least 80% of the minimum social wage, adjusted for age.
- Social security: Employers must register students with the Joint Social Security Centre (CCSS). Full contributions are required, including health insurance, pension, accident insurance, and long-term care.
- Declaration: If the student lacks a Luxembourg social security number, the employer must provide a copy of the student’s ID for registration.
Are wages taxable? - Yes, all wages earned under an Academic Year CDD are subject to income tax, regardless of the hourly rate. The student must provide a tax card (fiche de retenue d’impôt), and withholding tax applies accordingly.
Are students entitled to paid leave? - Yes, students employed under an Academic Year CDD are entitled to statutory paid annual leave, calculated on a pro rata basis according to their part-time working hours, in line with Articles L.233-1 and following of the Labour Code. They are also entitled to paid sick leave under the same pro rata conditions as other part-time employees, provided they comply with the usual procedures for reporting illness (such as submitting a medical certificate). Public holiday pay applies according to the contract terms and actual working hours.
Are there any health and safety obligations? - Yes. Employers must comply with youth protection and workplace safety regulations:
- A medical check is required for physically demanding or high-risk roles.
- Students under 21 must receive written health and safety instructions before starting work.
- Employers must ensure the job complies with legal restrictions on night work, hazardous tasks, and use of dangerous equipment for minors.