Luxembourg counts about 233,000 cross-border workers, 47% of its employees. A new LISER study of Belgian residents working in Luxembourg shows they earn about 40% more per day than they would at home. A cost awaits them when they return to the Belgian labour market, especially those with long cross-border spells and the less skilled, who show a persistent employment and wage penalty. Over seven years, the worker's net income rises by about 92,000 euros and Belgium saves about 3,700 euros per worker in unemployment benefits. The EU reform of 28 September 2026 will shift cross-border workers' unemployment benefits to the country of employment.
This study calls for early support for less-skilled returnees, closer coordination between employment services and linking administrative data across the Greater Region around Luxembourg.
