4. Obtaining Your Establishment Permit

The establishment permit confirms you're legally authorized to start and operate your specific business activity in Luxembourg. This permit is separate from social security registration or tax registration, it specifically addresses your right to conduct business in your chosen field.

Not all activities require an establishment permit through the standard process. Some regulated professions require specific professional authorizations from relevant authorities instead of or in addition to the standard establishment permit. Research your specific activity requirements to understand which authorizations apply to you.

List of activities requiring establishment permit: https://guichet.public.lu/en/entreprises/creation-developpement/autorisation-etablissement/autorisation-honorabilite/autorisation-etablissement.html

Conditions of access to professions: https://guichet.public.lu/en/entreprises/creation-developpement/projet-entreprise/definition/acces-profession.html

Apply for your establishment permit through the MyGuichet.lu online portal or directly with the Ministry of the Economy, depending on your activity type. Your application should include detailed information about your planned business activity, proof of any required professional qualifications, evidence of relevant professional experience, and your business plan and financial projections.

The processing time varies based on your activity type and the completeness of your application. Simple commercial activities may receive approval within weeks, while more complex or regulated activities can take several months. Submit complete applications with all required documentation to avoid delays from requests for additional information.

Certain professions require additional authorizations from sector-specific regulatory bodies before you can operate independently. These regulated fields include financial services, legal professions, healthcare and medical services, real estate services, construction and building trades, and food service and hospitality.

Each regulated profession has specific requirements administered by the relevant professional chamber or ministry. Contact the appropriate authority for your field early in your planning process to understand requirements and start any necessary qualification recognition or certification procedures.

Your establishment permit application typically requires declaring a business address in Luxembourg. Some communes restrict using residential addresses for business purposes, requiring you to secure separate commercial space or obtain specific permission to operate from home.

Verify your commune's regulations regarding home-based businesses before finalizing your business address plans. If commercial space is required or preferred, factor those costs into your business planning and financing requirements.