Refugee employment policies in Luxembourg: Evidence, gaps, and priorities

Luxembourg is entering a new phase in its refugee policy, shifting its focus from linguistic and civic integration to labour market integration.
Recent reforms and ongoing discussions – most notably easier access to temporary work permits without a labour market test – are steps in the right direction. However, unlocking refugees’ potential requires more than incremental changes. What is needed is a coherent strategy combining early skills assessment, effective reception, targeted language training, preparation for shortage occupations, and direct links to employers through coaching, mentoring and job matching. Many of these tools already exist, often driven by dynamic NGO initiatives. The priority now is clear: move from experimentation to impact by strengthening coordination, rigorously evaluating what works, and scaling up the most effective programmes. Aligning these efforts with labour market needs is key to turning untapped potential into economic and social gains.