Luxembourg continues to attract global interest as a place to live, work, and settle long-term, and recent coverage highlights the possibility of Indians applying for permanent residency status in the country. This interest comes as more people consider relocating to European nations for better career and lifestyle opportunities.  Under Luxembourg’s immigration rules, third-country nationals (including Indians) may apply for a long-term residence permit after living legally and continuously in the country for at least five years. Once granted, permanent residence allows holders to live and work in Luxembourg indefinitely without needing to renew short-term visas.  To be eligible, applicants must have maintained lawful residence for the full period, with allowed absences under specific limits, and submit their application to the country’s immigration authorities. These rules apply equally to all third-country nationals who meet the criteria.  Although some countries in Europe offer fast-track or investment-linked residency programs, Luxembourg’s main pathway remains tied to long-term stay and integration. There are also options like residence-by-investment programs where wealthy applicants can gain residence through economic contributions, though these typically require significant investment.  For Indians interested in settling in Europe, understanding Luxembourg’s requirements now can help plan long-term relocation strategies, whether through work, study, or business pathways. Read more: msn.com/en-in/news/world/want-to-live-in-luxembourg-the-country-is-offering-a-permanent-residency-and-indians-can-apply-too/ar-AA1N4sFy?apiversion=v2&domshim=1&noservercache=1… Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network. 

Luxembourg’s newly crowned Grand Duke, Guillaume, delivered his first Christmas Eve address on 24 December 2025, speaking warmly to the nation about shared values, community, and the future under his leadership.  In the speech, he reflected on the importance of solidarity, openness, tolerance and social cohesion, describing these principles as the foundation that binds Luxembourg’s society together, especially at this festive time of year.  He thanked citizens for the support shown since his accession to the throne on 3 October 2025, following the abdication of his father, Grand Duke Henri, and highlighted traditional celebrations and forthcoming official visits to regions across the country next year. Beyond seasonal cheer, the Grand Duke acknowledged challenges facing both Luxembourg and the wider European community, including the effects of the war in Ukraine, and urged people to continue supporting one another through compassion and mutual respect.  He also emphasised the need to care for those struggling with hardships such as high living costs, reminding listeners that the true spirit of Christmas lies in sharing joy and extending solidarity to all.  Read more: gouvernement.lu/en/actualites/agenda.gouvernement2024+en+actualites+toutes_actualites+discours+2025+12-decembre+24-discours-noel-grand-duc.html  Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network. 

A new diplomatic dispute has erupted after the United States imposed visa bans on five European individuals it accuses of pushing social media platforms to censor American viewpoints. The U.S. The State Department says these figures pressured tech companies to suppress protected speech, singling out former EU Commissioner Thierry Breton—credited with shaping Europe’s Digital Services Act—as well as campaigners from nonprofit organisations working on online harm. European leaders, including the EU Commission, France, and Germany, have strongly condemned the move, arguing that visa restrictions against allies over regulatory differences amount to coercion and undermine free expression. Brussels insists its digital laws protect both safety and speech and are not aimed at dictating policy on U.S. soil. The broader row marks a sharp escalation in transatlantic tensions over how to govern harmful online content and preserve free speech in the digital age. Read more: theguardian.com/technology/2025/dec/24/visa-ban-for-european-critics-of-online-harm-is-first-shot-in-us-free-speech-war Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.

Luxembourg has significantly strengthened its role in global health by signing two new strategic partnership agreements with the World Health Organization (WHO), pledging substantial funding to support international health goals and preparedness initiatives. The largest of the agreements is a €46.5 million Strategic Partnership Framework with Luxembourg’s Ministry of Development Cooperation, which is set to support priority areas such as crisis readiness, reducing health inequalities, tropical disease research, and polio eradication until 2028. In addition, Luxembourg’s Ministry of Health and Social Safety has committed a €1 million multi-year voluntary contribution, enhancing the country’s support for WHO’s mission to promote health equity worldwide. Luxembourg’s leaders say the funding underscores their commitment to multilateralism and global solidarity, reinforcing the nation’s long-standing collaboration with WHO as it works toward universal health coverage and stronger health systems. Read more: who.int/news/item/23-12-2024-luxembourg-and-who-sign-two-strategic-agreements Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.

Recent data shows that Luxembourg’s unemployment rate has climbed to around 6.2%, the highest level seen in nearly five years, reflecting ongoing shifts in the nation’s labour market.  This rise in joblessness, marking an increase from the previous month, highlights challenges for job seekers and policymakers alike as more residents register with the National Employment Agency. In particular, highly qualified job seekers and long-term unemployed individuals have contributed to the uptick, even as employers continue to report a significant number of open positions. Although Luxembourg’s economy remains robust overall, the labour market trends suggest a cooling phase where finding work has become tougher for many, and sectors like administrative support, IT and transport are seeing noticeable increases in jobseekers.  Officials are watching these developments closely as they work to balance workforce needs and improve employment opportunities across the country. Read more: tradingview.com/news/te_news:511807:0-luxembourg-unemployment-at-nearly-5-year-high  Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network. 

Luxembourg’s sprint sensation Patrizia van der Weken is preparing to launch her 2026 athletics season with a major indoor meeting on home soil, building on an impressive run of performances this year.  At the CMCM Indoor Meeting in Luxembourg City, she broke national records in the 60m and 200m events, marking one of the fastest times worldwide and drawing attention from fans and competitors alike. Van der Weken’s success reflects her dedication and rising profile in European athletics, and her home meet offers a perfect platform to fine-tune her form before international competitions.  Fans are excited to see her challenge more records, especially as she aims for historic achievements representing Luxembourg on major stages. With strong support from her home crowd and continued momentum, she looks set to make 2026 a standout year. Read more: https://www.european-athletics.com/home/news/luxembourgs-van-der-weken-set-to-launch-2026-campaign-on-home-turf-at-cmcm-indoor-meeting  Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.  

The Luxembourg government has made a strategic offer to acquire the bankrupt Liberty Steel plant in Dudelange, aiming to turn the long-idle industrial site into a hub for economic revitalisation and future job creation.  After years of inactivity and the company’s bankruptcy in 2024, the government’s plan would bring the property under public control, preventing a private sale and allowing for careful redevelopment planning.  Officials from the Ministry of the Economy said they are considering various options for the site, including potential manufacturing or defence-related projects, as part of efforts to restore employment opportunities in the region. The acquisition reflects broader efforts to support regions and workforce affected by industrial decline and provide a fresh direction for the once-active facility. Trade unions and community leaders have welcomed these steps, seeing them as an important move to protect jobs and the local economy. Read more: https://gmk.center/en/news/luxembourg-offers-e14-5-million-for-liberty-steel-dudelange-plant/  Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.  

Luxembourg is emerging as an attractive winter destination thanks to free public transport and festive Christmas markets, offering visitors easy and affordable travel across the country. Its compact layout and approachable attractions allow tourists to explore without the high costs or crowds seen in other European winter hubs. The capital’s Winter Market, along with historic squares and seasonal events, provides a relaxed festive atmosphere that appeals to travellers seeking a classic holiday experience. Free buses, trams and trains are part of Luxembourg’s sustainability initiative, making movement simple and cost-efficient. Visitors can take advantage of charming local experiences, traditional food stalls, ice rinks and scenic views, positioning Luxembourg as a unique and budget-friendly Christmas getaway in Europe. Read more: travelandtourworld.com/news/article/luxembourgs-winter-magic-free-public-transport-and-festive-markets-make-it-the-ultimate-christmas-escape-for-travelers Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network. 

Luxembourg’s increased defence spending in 2025 is having an unexpected impact on tourism by raising the country’s profile as a secure, stable destination. The government’s acceleration of defence investment toward NATO targets has drawn international delegations, security forums and business visitors, boosting hotel bookings and event attendance. Tourism officials are leveraging this momentum to position Luxembourg as a year-round destination for conferences and business events, especially in defence and technology sectors. This shift is generating economic benefits beyond traditional leisure travel. Enhanced security measures are also strengthening visitor confidence, with upgraded systems and cyber protections reinforcing Luxembourg’s reputation as a safe place to visit. Cultural attractions and local hospitality continue to complement this image for international travellers. Read more: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/luxembourg-tourism-gains-new-momentum-as-2025-defence-strategy-boosts-events-security-image-visitor-confidence/ Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.  

The European Union Space Surveillance and Tracking (EU SST) partnership is set to expand with the addition of Belgium, Bulgaria, Lithuania and Luxembourg as new members. This decision, adopted by the European Commission on December 17, 2025, enhances the EU’s collective capacity to monitor satellites and orbital debris. The EU SST system currently supports tracking for more than 600 space objects, helping safeguard satellites from collisions and reduce reliance on external data. The inclusion of the four new Member States will increase sensor coverage and expertise across Europe, boosting the partnership’s overall efficiency. This coordinated expansion is intended to strengthen Europe’s autonomous space safety capabilities as satellite activity grows and orbital traffic becomes more complex. Read more: https://www.openaccessgovernment.org/belgium-bulgaria-lithuania-and-luxembourg-set-to-join-eu-sst-partnership/202866/ Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.  

Fintech company Paytm’s parent, One97 Communications, is broadening its global footprint by establishing wholly owned subsidiaries in Indonesia and Luxembourg, aiming to grow its merchant payments and financial services internationally. The company plans to invest up to ₹25 crore in each new unit to support local licences, partnerships and organic expansion efforts.  At the same time, Paytm is restructuring its United Arab Emirates (UAE) business by selling a 49% stake in its Paytm Arab Payments arm to Abbar Global Opportunities Holdings, linked to UAE property billionaire Mohamed Alabbar. This will make the UAE unit 51% owned by Paytm Cloud Technologies while bringing in local investment and strategic support.  The move reflects Paytm’s strategy to enter new markets and strengthen its global technology distribution network. With the fresh subsidiaries and UAE partnership, the company is positioning itself for broader international growth.  Read more: https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/paytm-expands-overseas-presence-with-indonesia-luxembourg-units-dilutes-uae-arm-stake-86369.htm Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg.Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.  

BMW has reported that nearly half of its vehicles sold in Belgium and Luxembourg in 2025 were electric models. This marks a significant milestone in the region’s transition toward cleaner mobility. Strong government incentives, growing charging infrastructure, and increasing environmental awareness have helped boost demand for electric vehicles. Customers are increasingly choosing electric options without compromising on performance or comfort. BMW’s electric lineup, including both fully electric and plug-in hybrid models, has played a key role in this shift. The brand plans to further expand its electric offerings in the coming years. The trend highlights how Belgium and Luxembourg are emerging as leaders in Europe’s electric vehicle adoption. Read more: https://www.bmwblog.com/2025/12/18/half-bmw-sold-belgium-luxembourg-2025-electric/ Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.  

Luxembourg is taking major steps to position itself as a leading European hub for autonomous trucking. The country is investing in advanced infrastructure, testing zones, and supportive regulations to attract innovation in self-driving freight transport. Government officials and industry leaders believe autonomous trucks can improve road safety, reduce emissions, and make logistics more efficient across Europe. Luxembourg’s central location makes it an ideal testing and deployment ground. Several pilot projects are already underway, allowing companies to test autonomous freight vehicles on real roads under controlled conditions. This move strengthens Luxembourg’s reputation as a forward-thinking nation in smart mobility and logistics. Read more: https://roboticsandautomationnews.com/2025/12/20/luxembourg-positions-itself-as-european-hub-for-autonomous-trucking/97771/ Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.

Scientists have found that a natural compound found in dark chocolate could play a role in slowing down the ageing process. The chemical, known for its antioxidant properties, may help protect cells from damage caused by stress and inflammation. Researchers explain that this compound supports cellular health by improving how cells repair themselves. This could potentially reduce the impact of age-related conditions and help maintain overall wellbeing for a longer time. While this doesn’t mean chocolate is a magic solution, experts suggest that moderate consumption of high-quality dark chocolate could be beneficial when combined with a healthy lifestyle. The findings open new possibilities for further research into diet-based approaches to healthy ageing. Read more: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/news/key-chemical-in-dark-chocolate-may-slow-down-ageing Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network. 

Luxembourg City has revealed plans for a large modern sports complex to replace the historic Josy Barthel Stadium. The project will be located in the Hamm district and includes an international-standard athletics stadium and training facilities. Additional features include a multi-sports hall, green public spaces, and improved infrastructure for athletes and visitors. The development will focus on sustainability, with eco-friendly construction methods and energy-efficient systems. Construction is planned in phases between 2026 and 2029, aiming to boost sports and community life in the capital. Read more: https://www.lessentiel.lu/fr/story/projet-le-futur-grand-site-sportif-de-luxembourg-ville-se-devoile-103473052 Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.

Belgium and Luxembourg successfully tested a new cross-border alert plan during a joint police exercise on 17 December 2025. The drill simulated a serious crime where suspects crossed the border several times, requiring fast coordination between police forces. Authorities practiced setting up a virtual security ring, allowing officers to react quickly to major incidents such as terrorism or organised crime. The alert plan was signed in May 2024 and officially became operational in July 2025, improving communication between both countries. Officials say the test proved the system works and strengthens public safety on both sides of the border. Read more: https://www.visahq.com/news/2025-12-18/be/belgium-and-luxembourg-drill-new-cross-border-alert-plan/ Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.  

Health authorities in Luxembourg reported a strong rise in respiratory infections during the second week of December 2025. Influenza cases showed the sharpest increase. Laboratory data revealed that flu cases rose by more than 50%, mainly caused by influenza A. Children and teenagers were the most affected age groups. Cases of RSV also increased, particularly among young children. Hospitals are monitoring the situation closely as winter illnesses spread. At the same time, COVID-19 infections went up, supported by higher virus levels detected in wastewater monitoring systems. Officials are encouraging vaccination, good hygiene, and caution in crowded spaces to reduce further spread. Read more: https://cad.gouvernement.lu/en/actualites.gouvernement2024%2Bfr%2Bactualites%2Btoutes_actualites%2Bcommuniques%2B2025%2B12-decembre%2B18-infections-respiratoires.html Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.  

Luxembourg Prime Minister Luc Frieden took part in the European Council meeting held in Brussels from 17 to 19 December 2025. The summit brought together EU leaders to discuss major political and economic matters. One of the main topics was continued support for Ukraine, along with Europe’s role in global security and diplomacy. Leaders also exchanged views on current international conflicts. Economic stability and the future of the EU budget were also high on the agenda. Discussions focused on competitiveness, growth, and protecting European interests. During the visit, Frieden also represented the Benelux countries at a meeting with leaders from the Western Balkans, stressing cooperation and regional stability. The meetings aimed to strengthen unity within the EU while preparing for future challenges facing Europe. Read more: gouvernement.lu/fr/actualites/toutes_actualites/communiques/2025/12-decembre/17-frieden-conseil.html Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network. 

Luxembourg’s government has approved adjustments to the country’s pension system, set to take effect on January 1, 2026, as part of efforts to secure long-term financial stability. The changes aim to balance pension finances up to 2042 and preserve reserve funds until 2050. Key elements include gradually aligning the actual retirement age with the legal age of 65, as many currently retire earlier, and increasing the total contribution rate from 24% to 25.5% to strengthen the system’s resources. Other reforms being discussed involve flexible recognition of study years and a phased approach to pension contributions and entitlements, giving workers more clarity on long-term planning. These measures come after broad public consultation under the “Schwätz mat!” initiative, which sought input from citizens, experts, and stakeholders on how to adapt the pension structure responsibly. Read more: https://m3s.gouvernement.lu/en/campagnes/lancement-schwatzmat-systeme-retraite1.html Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.

A European Under-21 football qualifying match between France and Luxembourg was postponed after the Luxembourg U21 team’s bus was involved in a traffic accident in Brittany, France. The vehicle reportedly left the road after the driver became unwell, leaving the team shaken.  Several players, staff members, and the driver suffered minor injuries, and emergency services helped transport those affected to local medical facilities. Because of this, UEFA agreed to delay the match.  Originally scheduled in Lorient as part of the Euro U21 2027 qualifiers, the game has now been pushed back to October 3, 2026, giving the team time to recover from the shock and ensure everyone’s safety.  Both football federations expressed their support for the Luxembourg squad and praised the quick response from first responders on the scene. Read more: https://sportstar.thehindu.com/football/france-vs-luxembourg-u21-football-match-postponed-why-reason-bus-crash-injuries-news/article70015952.ece Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.  

Luxembourg’s Prime Minister Luc Frieden has urged European leaders to ensure Ukraine has the resources needed to continue its defence against Russia’s invasion. Speaking ahead of a key European Council meeting, he emphasised that borders cannot be changed by force and that the EU must provide means to help Ukraine withstand the war.  Frieden outlined that EU leaders are exploring ways to finance Ukraine beyond the current plan, which includes about €90 billion in support through 2026. Options being discussed include using frozen Russian assets in a zero-interest loan or EU joint borrowing, similar to pandemic-era financing.  He said there are two main options on the table and stressed the need for unity among EU states, especially if future support from partners like the United States becomes uncertain.  The broader discussions come as the EU seeks to balance defence, economic, and political strategies in the face of ongoing conflict in Ukraine.  Read more: https://au.news.yahoo.com/ukraine-means-survive-war-luxembourg-081347082.html Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.  

Amazon has announced one of its largest job reductions at its European headquarters in Luxembourg, cutting about 370 roles, roughly 8.5% of its workforce — the biggest layoffs in the country in roughly 20 years. The move is part of Amazon’s global restructuring and push toward new business priorities like artificial intelligence.  Many affected employees are foreign workers from countries such as India, the US, Australia, Egypt, and Tunisia. These workers face extra pressure because Luxembourg rules generally give them only about three months to find a new job if they lose their current one, or they may have to leave the country. The layoffs were slightly reduced from an earlier plan of 470 cuts after negotiations under EU labour laws, but the decision still sparked concern among workers and unions. Amazon says the changes reflect business needs and local strategy, and that severance packages go “well beyond industry benchmarks,” but unions have criticised the move, noting the company’s favourable tax setup in Luxembourg.  Read more: livemint.com/companies/news/amazon-layoffs-8-5-pc-370-employees-cut-tech-hub-luxembourg-how-indian-foreign-workers-difficult-question-why-job-market-11766109934352.html Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network. 

The United Kingdom has agreed to rejoin the European Union’s well-known Erasmus student exchange programme starting in January 2027, a significant step after leaving the scheme following Brexit. Under this new deal, British students will once again be able to study, train or do work placements in EU countries without additional foreign fees, just like before the UK exited the programme in 2020.  The government said the UK will contribute around £570 million for its first year of participation, which has been negotiated at a discount compared with earlier terms. The return to Erasmus is expected to benefit more than 100,000 people, including university students, apprentices, adult learners and educators.  Rejoining the scheme is seen as part of broader efforts by the UK government to strengthen ties with the EU after years of post-Brexit negotiations. Leaders from both sides have described the deal as a positive step for young people and international cooperation in education and training.  Supporters say this move opens up valuable cultural and career-building opportunities for a new generation of UK students, while critics have raised concerns about the cost and whether it represents a step back toward closer EU alignment.  👉 Read more: bbc.com/news/live/c4g654qgl83t?at_link_id=3906B154-DB2E-11F0-B78E-AF17F865F583 Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.

The Academy Awards — one of Hollywood’s biggest nights — will soon have a new home online instead of on traditional broadcast TV. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has agreed to a multi-year deal with YouTube that gives the platform exclusive global rights to stream the Oscars beginning in 2029 through 2033. This marks a historic shift away from broadcast television after decades on networks like ABC and CBS.  Under the agreement, YouTube will stream the Oscars live and free worldwide, including red-carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes content, Governors Awards, and more. The move aims to reach a broader and more diverse global audience by using YouTube’s huge reach and multilingual features.  ABC, the long-time broadcast partner, will continue airing the Oscars through the 100th ceremony in 2028, but 2029’s Oscars will be exclusively on YouTube. The Academy hopes this change reflects evolving viewing habits and growing demand for online streaming.  YouTube’s CEO said the partnership will help inspire a new generation of film fans while honoring the Oscars’ legacy. Meanwhile, ABC expressed pride in its decades-long relationship with the ceremony.  The shift marks the first time a major award ceremony — between the Oscars, Emmys, Grammys, and Tonys — will fully transition off broadcast TV to an online platform.  👉 Read more: edition.cnn.com/2025/12/17/media/oscars-youtube-academy-awards-abc Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.

Several online services in Luxembourg were disrupted after LuxTrust, the country’s digital authentication provider, experienced a technical interruption. Users reported being unable to access banking platforms, public administration portals, and other services that depend on LuxTrust verification, causing inconvenience for individuals and businesses alike. According to information shared on LuxTrust’s official support channels, the issue affected authentication and transaction processes across its network. The company confirmed that the problem was technical in nature and that its teams immediately began working to identify and resolve the cause. LuxTrust reassured users that the outage was not linked to a security breach and that personal data remains protected. Despite this assurance, the incident highlighted how essential the platform is for daily digital activities in Luxembourg, as many services rely entirely on its infrastructure. During the downtime, users encountered login failures and transaction errors, preventing them from completing urgent tasks. LuxTrust has stated that restoring normal operations is a priority and updates will be shared as progress is made. Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.

Luxembourg-based Quintet Private Bank is set for a leadership change with the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer. The move signals a strategic transition for the financial group. Thomas Heinzl, currently Chief Financial Officer at Swiss bank Vontobel, has been named as the future CEO of Quintet. He is expected to assume the role in the second quarter of 2026. Heinzl will succeed Chris Allen, who is scheduled to step down at the end of March. The leadership change comes at a time when the bank is focusing on long-term growth and stability. Quintet manages over €100 billion in assets and operates across several European markets. The new appointment aims to strengthen the bank’s position in the competitive private banking sector. Read more – https://www.tradingview.com/news/reuters.com%2C2025%3Anewsml_L8N3XM09K%3A0-vontobel-cfo-heinzl-to-become-ceo-of-luxembourg-based-quintet/ Join the community of your own - #1 homegrown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu  

Luxembourg has reaffirmed its commitment to building a secure, competitive, and sustainable energy supply across Europe. The pledge was made during discussions at a high-level European meeting in Brussels. The country emphasized the need for stronger cross-border cooperation to ensure energy security and reduce dependency risks. Improving energy infrastructure and market integration were highlighted as key priorities. Luxembourg also stressed the importance of accelerating renewable energy development to meet climate goals while keeping energy prices affordable for businesses and households. European leaders discussed simplifying approval processes for energy projects and improving coordination among member states. Luxembourg positioned itself as an active contributor to Europe’s green energy transition. Read more – https://chronicle.lu/category/at-home/58544-luxembourg-commits-to-secure-competitive-sustainable-energy-supply-in-europe Join the community of your own - #1 homegrown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu  

Armenia and Luxembourg have officially strengthened their diplomatic relationship by signing a Strategic Partnership Declaration. The agreement marks a new phase of cooperation between the two nations. The declaration was signed by Armenia’s Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel. It reflects a shared vision for closer political and economic engagement. Both countries aim to expand cooperation in key areas such as trade, investment, education, and innovation. The partnership also seeks to promote dialogue on international and regional security issues. The agreement highlights Armenia’s growing engagement with European partners and Luxembourg’s interest in supporting stability and development through diplomacy and collaboration. Read more – caspianpost.com/armenia/armenia-luxembourg-ink-strategic-partnership-declaration Join the community of your own - #1 homegrown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu

Armenia’s Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan is set to visit Luxembourg as part of an official diplomatic trip aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. The visit highlights Armenia’s growing engagement with European partners and Luxembourg’s role in regional diplomacy. During the visit, Mirzoyan is expected to hold talks with Luxembourg’s Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel. Discussions will focus on political cooperation, European affairs, and ways to expand collaboration at both bilateral and multilateral levels. The two sides are also expected to sign a cooperation agreement, signaling a renewed commitment to closer diplomatic and strategic ties. This agreement may open doors for stronger cooperation in areas such as governance, economic relations, and international diplomacy. Luxembourg has consistently supported dialogue and stability initiatives in the region, making the visit significant for Armenia’s foreign policy goals. The meeting also reflects Luxembourg’s active engagement with Eastern Partnership countries. Overall, the visit marks an important step in reinforcing diplomatic ties and fostering long-term cooperation between Armenia and Luxembourg. Read more: news.az/news/armenian-fm-to-visit-luxembourg Join the community of your own - #1 homegrown LuxExpats app

China and Luxembourg reaffirmed their long-standing partnership during a meeting between senior parliamentary leaders in Beijing. The talks focused on strengthening cooperation and mutual understanding. Chinese legislator Zhao Leji met with Claude Wiseler, President of Luxembourg’s Parliament, highlighting over five decades of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Both sides discussed opportunities to expand cooperation in areas such as clean energy, artificial intelligence, finance and trade. Cultural and educational exchanges were also emphasised. The meeting underlined a shared commitment to dialogue, respect and collaboration as China and Luxembourg look to deepen ties in the years ahead. Read more: https://english.news.cn/20251212/ee0f3d4d246f4374a1553ef180d5092d/c.html Join the community of your own - #1 homegrown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu