2026: comparison of minimum wages in Luxembourg and neighbouring countries

In Luxembourg, as in many countries, a minimum wage applies to all workers. How does it compare with neighbouring countries and other European nations? 

What is the minimum wage in Luxembourg? 

In Luxembourg, the social minimum wage (SSM) varies according to age and qualifications. Indeed, the amount differs depending on whether you are qualified or unqualified, and whether you are an adult or a minor. 

To be considered a qualified worker, you must hold at least one of the following: 

• A certificate of technical and vocational aptitude (CATP) or a vocational aptitude diploma (DAP) from technical secondary education;
• A certificate of manual skills (CCM) or a vocational capacity certificate (CCP) plus 2 years’ experience in the profession; 
• A preliminary technical and vocational certificate (CITP) plus 5 years’ experience in the profession. 

Equivalent qualifications obtained abroad may also be recognised to qualify for the skilled minimum wage. 

The SSM is indexed to inflation. Whenever inflation exceeds the threshold of 2.5%, the minimum wage increases by the same percentage. This applies to all wages in the country. The next indexation is expected to take place during the third quarter of 2026. 

Gross monthly social minimum wage amounts as of 1 January 2026: 

• SSM for unqualified adults aged over 18 (100% of the SSM): €2,703.74; 
• SSM for qualified adults (120%): €3,244.48; 
• SSM for 17-year-old adolescents (80%): €2,162.99; 
• SSM for 15–16-year-old adolescents (75%): €2,027.80. 

What is the minimum wage in Germany? 

The German minimum wage generally increases every year, although there is no fixed rule governing its rise. Unlike Luxembourg, there is no automatic indexation to inflation nor a fixed annual percentage increase. The monthly minimum wage rose to €2,409.33 gross in 2026 and will increase again to €2,530.66 gross in 2027. 

What is the minimum wage in Belgium? 

In Belgium, the minimum wage is not set by a single law but by a set of collective bargaining agreements. There is nevertheless a minimum wage known as the RMMMG (Average Monthly Guaranteed Minimum Wage), which stands at €2,111.89 gross as of 1 January 2026. However, each sector may apply a higher minimum wage depending on the collective agreements in place. 

What is the minimum wage in France? 

The national minimum wage (SMIC) is the guaranteed minimum wage in France. It is revised every 1 January in line with inflation and the increase in the average wage of workers and employees. If inflation is particularly high, it may also be adjusted during the year, as was the case in 2022. The SMIC has stood at €1,823.03 gross since 1 January 2026, representing an increase of €21.23 compared with 2025. 

What are the minimum wages in EU countries? 

Many other European Union countries have a statutory gross minimum wage in place. Below is their ranking: 

1. Luxembourg: €2,704; 
2. Netherlands: €2,509; 
3. Germany: €2,409; 
4. Ireland: €2,340; 
5. Belgium: €2,111; 
6. France: €1,823; 
7. Spain: €1,381; 
8. Slovenia: €1,278; 
9. Lithuania: €1,153; 
10. Poland: €1,090; 
11. Portugal: €1,015; 
12. Cyprus: €1,000; 
13. Hungary: €988; 
14. Croatia: €970; 
15. Malta: €960; 
16. Estonia: €886; 
17. Czech Republic: €826; 
18. Slovakia: €816; 
19. Romania: €814; 
20. Latvia: €740; 
21. Bulgaria: €551. 

Find more information about the Luxembourg labour market on our blog.