Work Austria

To obtain a work permit in Austria, especially if you are from a non-EU/EEA country, you need to go through several stages and prepare a series of documents.

 

Types of Work Permits

   In Austria, there are several types of work permits depending on your qualifications and situation:

   - Red-White-Red Card: for highly qualified specialists, graduates of Austrian universities, and workers in shortage professions. This permit is valid for 2 years and is tied to a specific employer.

   - EU Blue Card: for people with higher education and a job offer that meets the minimum wage requirement.

   - Job Search Visa: allows highly qualified specialists to come to Austria to search for a job.

   - Seasonal Work Permits: for temporary employment in sectors such as agriculture or tourism.

 

Application Process

   - Having a Job Offer: To apply for a work permit, you need to have a confirmed job offer from an Austrian employer.

   - Role of the Employer: The employer must apply for the work permit at the Austrian Public Employment Service. In some cases, it is required to prove that no suitable candidates were found in Austria for the position.

   - Submission of Documents: The application can be submitted in person or through the employer at the local residence authority in Austria or at the Austrian consulate abroad.

 

Required Documents

   For most work permits, including the Red-White-Red Card, you will need the following documents:

   - Valid passport

   - Proof of qualifications (diplomas, work certificates)

   - Employment contract

   - Proof of accommodation in Austria

   - Health insurance

   - Recent photographs

   - Biometric data

   - Proof of sufficient financial means

 

   For the EU Blue Card, it is also necessary to confirm that your salary meets the established minimum threshold (approximately €46,000 per year).

 

Point-Based System

   Austria uses a point-based assessment system for obtaining some types of work permits, especially for highly qualified specialists. Points are awarded for education, work experience, age, language skills, and other factors such as education in Austria or having patents.

 

Processing Time

   The processing time for a work permit application may vary, but it usually takes a few weeks. It is recommended to apply in advance to avoid delays in starting work.

Features for EU/EEA Citizens:

Freedom of Movement: EU/EEA citizens can come to Austria without a visa and work for the first three months without needing a work permit.

 

Registration for Extended Stay: If an EU citizen plans to stay in Austria for more than 90 days, they need to register with the local authorities and obtain a Registration Certificate. This requires presenting a passport, proof of residence and employment (e.g., employment contract), and evidence of health insurance.

 

Health Insurance and Taxes: EU citizens are recommended to register in the Austrian health insurance system after 90 days, and their incomes are subject to taxation in Austria.

 

Features for Non-EU Citizens:

Visa and Permit Requirements: Non-EU citizens need a visa and work permit to be employed in Austria.

 

Health Insurance and Taxes: Non-EU citizens are required to have health insurance and be registered in the Austrian social insurance system. Like EU citizens, they are subject to taxation in Austria.

Job Search Online

   The most convenient way to search for a job in Austria is by using specialized online platforms:

   - Local and international job sites: Popular platforms for finding jobs in Austria include [Indeed](https://at.indeed.com), [Karriere](https://www.karriere.at), and LinkedIn. These sites offer jobs for both German speakers and those looking for English-speaking positions.

   - Working without knowledge of the German language: If you do not speak German, there are vacancies in large international companies that operate in English, especially in IT, marketing, and tourism sectors. However, knowing at least a basic level of German will be a significant advantage.

 

Working through agencies

   Recruitment agencies like Adecco and Manpower are widespread in Austria and can help find suitable job offers and provide guidance on the documentation process. Agencies are useful for job searches in Vienna and other cities across the country.

 

Newspapers and networks

   Austrian newspapers like Der Standard and Kurier publish current job vacancies. Using such resources can aid in finding local job opportunities, especially in traditional industries.

 

Key tips for successful employment

   - Resume and cover letter adaptation: In Austria, it is customary to submit resumes in tabular format and no longer than 2 pages. The cover letter should be brief, not duplicate resume information, and always personalized for the specific job vacancy.

   - Speculative applications: It is common practice in Austria to send resumes even to companies that have not posted any vacancies. This way, one can demonstrate interest and initiative.

 

Language courses

   Despite the availability of vacancies for English speakers, enhancing your German language skills significantly increases employment chances and eases integration into Austrian culture.

Language knowledge

   - German language: In most companies in Austria, the primary working language is German. Depending on the sector, the required proficiency level may range from basic (A2) to advanced (C1). High proficiency in German is necessary in sectors such as healthcare, civil service, and construction, whereas knowledge of English may suffice in IT and international companies.

   - English language: In some sectors, such as technology and marketing, fluency in English is sufficient. However, basic German knowledge is still helpful for integration into the working environment.

 

Qualification and education

   Qualifications are important for employment in Austria, especially if you are pursuing highly qualified positions. For professions such as engineers, programmers, or doctors, confirmation of diplomas and work experience is required. In some cases, official recognition of diplomas through Austrian authorities is necessary. Meeting specific criteria, such as having higher education and relevant experience, is crucial for obtaining the Red-White-Red Card or the EU Blue Card.

 

Documents for employment

   Depending on your citizenship, different types of work permits may be required. EU citizens do not need a work permit, but they must register with local authorities if their stay exceeds 90 days. Citizens of third countries typically need to obtain the Red-White-Red Card or the EU Blue Card, which requires a job offer and meeting certain qualification criteria.

 

Employment tips

   - Prepare a resume and cover letter: In Austria, it is customary to write a resume in tabular form and include a photo. The cover letter should be tailored to the specific job vacancy.

   - Use online platforms: Popular job search sites in Austria include StepStone, Karriere, as well as international platforms like LinkedIn.

Austria offers numerous employment opportunities in various industries, particularly for foreign specialists. The most in-demand sectors include:

 

Technology and IT

   The information technology sector is growing rapidly due to digitalization. Specialists in fields such as software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and cloud technologies are highly sought after. Employers often look for candidates with international experience, and knowledge of English can be sufficient in this sector.

 

Healthcare

   Austria has a growing demand for healthcare workers, especially due to an aging population. Doctors, nurses, social workers, and caregivers for the elderly are in constant demand. High proficiency in German and verified qualifications are required to work in this area.

 

Engineering and Construction

   The demand for engineers in various fields (electrical, civil, energy engineers) and construction specialists remains high. Infrastructure development and urban construction projects require qualified personnel.

 

Tourism and Hospitality

   Austria is a popular tourist destination, creating a constant need for workers in hotels, restaurants, and event organization. Jobs in this area often require knowledge of several languages, including German and English.

 

Finance and Banking

   Austria's strong financial sector supports high demand for finance specialists, including financial analysts, investment consultants, and accountants. In this field, knowledge of German and experience working with international clients are important.

 

There is also significant demand in Austria for unskilled workers, especially in industries such as:

 

Agriculture and Seasonal Work

   Seasonal workers are in demand in agriculture, especially for harvest time. This temporary work usually does not require special skills but requires physical endurance. Migrants from other countries, especially from Eastern Europe, often find work in this sector.

 

Tourism and Hospitality

   The tourism sector has a constant demand for unskilled workers in hotels, restaurants, receptions, and cleaning roles. These jobs are especially popular in tourist regions such as the Alps and major cities like Vienna and Salzburg.

 

Retail and Warehouses

   Warehouse workers, cashiers, store staff, and loaders are also in demand in Austria. Employers often look for staff to perform simple tasks that do not require high qualifications.

 

Social Care

   There is a high demand for unskilled workers in the care of the elderly and disabled, especially for work in nursing homes or home care.

 

While such jobs often do not require high qualifications, knowledge of the German language even at a basic level significantly increases the chances of successful employment. 

Austria's pension system is based on three levels: state pensions, corporate pensions, and private pension savings. The main portion of pension payments comes from the public distribution principle, where the working population pays for the pensions of current retirees through mandatory contributions. This level covers almost all workers in the country and is a key source of income for most retirees.

 

Main features of the pension system in Austria:

Retirement age:

   - For men, the retirement age is set at 65, while for women it is gradually increasing from the current 60 and will reach 65 by 2033. There is an option for early retirement, but financial penalties of 5.1% apply for each year of early exit.

 

Minimum service:

   To receive a pension, one must work and pay contributions for at least 15 years. The pension amount is calculated based on the 18 years with the highest earnings during the working period.

 

Additional pensions:

   Austrian employers may offer additional corporate pension plans. These plans allow workers to receive additional payments upon retirement. Voluntary pension savings are also available.

 

Features for expats:

   People working in Austria, regardless of nationality, can receive a pension if they meet age and service requirements. It is important to note that many countries, including EU countries and some others, have agreements with Austria, which simplifies the transfer of pension rights between countries.

 

Austria's pension system is considered one of the most stable and adequate in Europe, despite an aging population.

In Austria, the social insurance system is mandatory and covers several key types of insurance that apply to all working individuals and many other categories of the population. The main types of social insurance include:

 

Medical Insurance

   Medical insurance covers expenses for treatment, hospitalization, medical examinations, home care, and rehabilitation. It also includes sickness benefits and maternity expenses. All officially employed individuals in Austria are automatically registered in the medical insurance system through their employers. Family members can be insured for free under certain conditions.

 

Pension Insurance 

   Pension insurance provides retirement benefits. Contributions are paid by both employers (12.55% of salary) and employees (10.25%). To receive a pension, one must have at least 15 years of service during which contributions were made. Early retirement with reduced benefits is possible or, conversely, increased pension for continuing to work beyond the retirement age.

 

Accident Insurance 

   Accident insurance covers injuries and illnesses related to professional activities. It includes treatment, compensation in case of temporary disability or disability, and rehabilitation services.

 

Unemployment Insurance 

   Unemployed individuals are entitled to unemployment benefits provided they have worked for a specified period and made the necessary contributions (5.9% of salary, half of which is paid by the employer). There are also additional support programs for those who have exhausted their unemployment benefits.

 

Maternity and Family Insurance

   Employees are entitled to maternity and parental leave benefits. Parents can take childcare leave until the child reaches the age of two with corresponding benefits.

Termination Rules

   - Notice of termination: Notice periods vary depending on the type of employment. Dismissal is also possible by mutual agreement, or in exceptional cases, such as disciplinary violations.

   - Protection from dismissal: During maternity and childcare leave, employees are protected from dismissal. This protection period continues up to four weeks after the end of the leave.

 

Leave

   - Annual leave: Employees are entitled to a minimum of 5 weeks of paid leave (25 working days with a five-day work week). After 25 years of employment with the same employer, this entitlement increases to 6 weeks of leave.

   - Sick leave: An employee receives full pay for the first six weeks of illness, after which they may receive sickness benefit from social insurance.

   - Maternity and parental leave: Expectant mothers are entitled to 8 weeks before and 8 weeks after childbirth (up to 12 weeks in cases of multiple births or cesarean section). Parents can take childcare leave until the child reaches two years old, and this leave can be divided between the parents.

 

Public Holidays

   Austria officially recognizes 13 national holidays, including New Year's Day, Easter Monday, Labor Day, Christmas, and others. These days are considered paid holidays.

 

These rules provide a high level of employee protection in Austria, ensuring paid leave, protection from dismissal in special cases, and other social guarantees.

In Austria, there are several professional unions and organizations that actively protect workers' rights and offer a wide range of legal and social support.

 

Austrian Federation of Trade Unions:

   This is the main union organization in the country, with more than 1.2 million members. It includes several sectoral unions that represent workers' interests in various economic sectors. The main task of the unions is negotiating collective agreements that regulate working conditions, wages, and social benefits. They also provide members with legal advice and assistance in labor disputes.

 

Chambers of Labor:

   This is a mandatory organization for all employees and freelancers in Austria, with about 4 million members. The Chambers of Labor are dedicated to protecting workers' rights, providing legal consultations, assisting with tax and labor law issues, and representing workers in social and labor court cases. Chamber members automatically pay dues (0.5% of salary), which ensures stable support and resources.

 

Collective Agreements:

   Austria has one of the most comprehensive systems of collective agreements. About 98% of workers are covered by these agreements, which establish minimum wages, working conditions, including working hours, and social benefits. Unions and employers engage in annual negotiations on these agreements, ensuring stable and fair working conditions.

 

Worker Assistance:

   Trade unions and labor chambers provide significant assistance in case of labor disputes, protection against wrongful dismissals, and support initiatives to improve working conditions. Workers can seek free consultations and legal protection if necessary.

Conducting business activities in Austria requires completing a number of formalities and registrations with various government bodies. Here are the key features for aspiring entrepreneurs:

Choosing a Business Form

   The most popular forms of business in Austria are sole proprietorship and limited liability company (GmbH). GmbH requires a minimum share capital of 35,000 euros, of which 17,500 euros must be paid at the time of registration.

   A new flexible company form is available for startups — FlexCo, which combines elements of an LLC and a joint-stock company, and has been specifically designed to meet the needs of startups.

Business Registration

   To start a business, you need to obtain a trade license, which can be obtained from local authorities (for example, at GISA, the online business registration platform). Registration in the Commercial Register is also mandatory for many business forms. All documents must be translated into German and notarized. After registration, you also need to obtain a tax number and register employees in the social security system.

Taxes and Social Contributions

   Business in Austria is subject to corporate tax (25%) and VAT (20%). Entrepreneurs also need to register with the Social Security System for the Self-Employed.

Licenses and Permits

 For certain professions and types of activities, such as engineering services, medicine, and the chemical industry, a special license is required, confirming qualifications and professional experience.

Additional Aspects

   Austria offers many support programs for entrepreneurs, such as NeuFöG, which exempts new companies from certain taxes and charges. There are also startup support programs, including grants and preferential conditions for foreign investors.

Entrepreneurial activity in Austria can be attractive due to a stable economy, high standard of living, and government support for businesses.