Becoming a Luxembourg citizen is a multi-step process. Passing the Sproochentest is one key requirement — but it sits alongside several others. This guide covers everything you need to fulfil to apply for Luxembourg nationality.
1. Residency Requirement
You must have lived legally and continuously in Luxembourg for at least 5 years immediately before applying. Brief absences (holidays, short work trips) are generally tolerated, but prolonged gaps can reset the clock. Your residency is documented through your registration at the commune (commune de résidence).
2. Language Requirement — The Sproochentest
You must pass the Sproochentest, administered by the INLL. The exam has two parts: an A2 oral expression part (10-minute face-to-face interview) and a B1 listening comprehension part (25 minutes on a tablet). You need at least 50% in the oral part to pass. There is no written language test.
3. Civic Integration — The Vivre Ensemble Course
You must complete the "Vivre Ensemble au Grand-Duché de Luxembourg" civic course. This 24-hour course (spread over several sessions) covers Luxembourg's history, institutions, values, and rights. It is offered free of charge and can be taken in Luxembourgish, French, German, Portuguese, English, or Italian.
4. Clean Criminal Record
You must have no serious criminal convictions. A criminal record extract (extrait de casier judiciaire) will be required as part of the application. Minor traffic offences are generally not an obstacle, but serious offences can disqualify an application.
5. How to Apply
Applications are submitted to the Ministry of Justice (Ministère de la Justice) in Luxembourg. You will need: proof of 5-year residency, your Sproochentest certificate, your Vivre Ensemble certificate, a criminal record extract, and identity documents. The process is handled online via guichet.lu.
Do You Have to Give Up Your Current Nationality?
Luxembourg generally allows dual nationality, but the rules depend on your country of origin. Many EU citizens can retain their original nationality. Check with the Ministry of Justice or a legal adviser for your specific situation, as rules can change.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Processing times vary, but applicants typically wait 12–24 months after submitting a complete dossier. Starting early — especially booking the Sproochentest and the Vivre Ensemble course — is strongly recommended.
Tip: The Sproochentest is often the longest preparation step. Use Sproochentest AI to prepare efficiently — guided A2 speaking prompts and B1 listening exercises with AI feedback help you reach the required level faster.