Austria is a great country to work in, with a strong economy, excellent work-life balance, and high wages. Whether you are an EU citizen or from outside the EU, this guide will help you navigate the process of finding and securing a job in Austria.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility to Work in Austria
Before applying for jobs, you need to check if you are allowed to work in Austria.
- EU/EEA Citizens: You can live and work in Austria without a visa or work permit.
- Non-EU Citizens: You need a work visa or residence permit, such as:
- Red-White-Red Card: A work and residence permit for skilled workers, valid for 24 months.
- Job-Seeker Visa: A six-month visa for highly qualified professionals looking for work.
- EU Blue Card: For highly skilled workers with a job offer above a certain salary threshold.
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
Step 2: Research Job Opportunities
Austria has a high demand for professionals in fields like IT, engineering, healthcare, tourism, and skilled trades. Popular job search platforms include:
- AMS Jobbörse (Austrian Public Employment Service)
- Karriere.at
- StepStone Austria
- XING (German-speaking job network)
Step 3: Prepare Your CV and Cover Letter
Austrian employers expect well-structured applications:
- CV (Lebenslauf): Include personal details, work experience, education, skills, and languages.
- Cover Letter (Bewerbungsschreiben): Should be specific to the job and employer.
- Photo: Adding a professional photo is common in Austria.
- References and Certificates: Many employers ask for recommendation letters and proof of qualifications.
Step 4: Apply for Jobs
Once your application is ready, start applying:
- Use online portals, company websites, and recruitment agencies.
- Be formal and professional in your applications.
- Expect interviews, which may include technical tests or multiple rounds.
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
Step 5: Secure a Work Visa (For Non-EU Citizens)
If you receive a job offer, your employer may help with the visa process. The key work permits include:
- Red-White-Red Card: Requires a valid job offer and specific qualifications.
- EU Blue Card: For professionals earning above €45,595 annually (as of 2024).
- Work Permit (Beschäftigungsbewilligung): Needed in some industries for non-EU workers.
Step 6: Relocate and Settle in Austria
After obtaining a visa, you need to:
- Find Accommodation: Use sites like Willhaben or ImmoScout24.
- Register Your Address (Meldezettel): Within three days of moving, register at the local registration office.
- Open a Bank Account: Necessary for salary payments.
- Get Health Insurance: Mandatory in Austria; usually covered by your employer.
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
Step 7: Start Working and Integrate
Once you begin working:
- Learn German: While some jobs are in English, German is widely used in the workplace.
- Understand Austrian Work Culture: Punctuality and professionalism are key.
- Network: Join professional groups, attend job fairs, and connect with others in your field.
- Be persistent: Finding a job can take time, so apply widely.
- Tailor your applications: Each job application should be customized.
- Consider an apprenticeship (Lehre): For younger job seekers, vocational training is a good option.
- Use recruitment agencies: Some agencies specialize in helping foreigners find jobs in Austria.
