The weather in Austria is marked by a moderate climate and four fairly distinct seasons. Expats moving to this central European nation should plan to bring clothing to suit sunny summer days, warm apparel for winter, and plenty of lightweight layers for the months in between.

The four seasons and beautiful Austrian landscape provide plenty of scope for outdoor activities and ample travel opportunities. Summer high temperatures can reach 86°F (30°C), while winter lows frequently descend to a chilly 14°F (-10°C). The hottest months are July and August, while December and January are the coldest. Most of Austria's rain falls in the months of June, July and August.

Expats from EU- or EEA-member states are able to enter Austria without a visa. Those from other countries will require a visa to enter, unless they're from a country that has a visa-free agreement with Austria.

In addition, if non-EU citizens plan on living or working in Austria, they will need to take the necessary steps to obtain either a work or residency permit.

Travel visas for Austria

Citizens of certain countries will be required to apply for a travel visa (also known as a category C visa) ahead of time, while others are able to enter visa free. Once the travel visa is granted, holders can be in Austria for up to a total of three months within any given six-month period. Holders of this visa are not granted permission to work or carry out any form of business activity.

The processing time for a travel visa is usually 15 days or less, but in busy periods the wait can be longer. Bearing this in mind, it's best to apply well ahead of time. Travellers can make their application at the Austrian embassy or consulate in their home country.

As Austria is part of the Schengen territory, once a person is granted a travel visa they can visit multiple destinations that are signatory to the agreement. Those who plan on travelling to a number of Schengen countries will find that it is best to make their application at the consulate of the country in which they plan to spend the most amount of time. 

Resident visas for Austria

Resident visas (category D visas) fall somewhere between travel visas and residence permits. Expats staying in Austria for between three and six months – for example, to study or do business – should apply for this visa.

Residence permits for Austria

A residence permit is required for stays of longer than six months for work, study or family reunification. In order to obtain a residence permit, the applicant must demonstrate that they have health, travel and accident insurance as well as sufficient funds to support themselves while in Austria. It is also necessary for the applicant to submit proof to back up their proposed reason for entry.

Those intending to work in Austria should apply for a combined work-and-residence permit. There are three types of work-and-residence permits: the Red-White-Red Card, the EU Blue Card and the Red-White-Red Card Plus.

*Visa requirements can change at short notice and expats should contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.

Getting around in Austria is easy thanks to the country’s small geographic size, efficient rail network and well-maintained road infrastructure. For most expats, travelling by train is the easiest way to get around.

While domestic flights between Austrian cities are readily available, they are relatively expensive and only save travellers a small amount of time. Driving in Austria is a pleasure, and while owning a car is not a necessity for those living in big cities, it’s a great way to explore the country.

Public transport in Austria

The national public transport infrastructure in Austria consists of buses and trains operated by the state-owned company, ÖBB. The train and bus networks complement each other well and ÖBB has implemented an integrated ticketing system.

Tickets on buses and trains in Austria are based on the distance travelled, the type of train or bus used and the class of seat. Base fares are fairly expensive, but expats who take some time to do their research will find that there are plenty of discounts available.

Trains

Trains are the most popular mode of public transport in Austria. Intercity trains that connect the major destinations in Austria are moderately priced and relatively comfortable.

Most train routes are operated by ÖBB, while WestBahn offers competitive services on certain lines. Commuters must be aware that ÖBB rail passes and tickets are not valid for West Bahn trains and vice-versa. Tickets for either service can be purchased in advance online, at train stations or, in some cases, onboard the train.

Buses

ÖBB also oversees buses in Austria. The national bus network is not quite as comprehensive as the rail system but has been designed to complement trains. Tickets can be purchased online, at the station or on the bus.

Bus travel in Austria is generally cheaper than the equivalent train journey. Still, where there is the option to travel by train or a bus to a destination, most commuters will opt to take the train. Trains in Austria will generally offer a more comfortable and faster service than intercity buses.

Taxis in Austria

Taxis can be easily found at taxi stands or outside bus and train stations. Fares are regulated and charged according to the meter. Taxis can be hailed while out and about, or they can be pre-booked in advance via phone, apps or online.

Ride-hailing companies such as Uber, Lyft and Bolt also operate in Austria.

Driving in Austria

Generally, most expats living in Austria are based in a city and therefore will have little or no need to own a car. But for those wishing to explore the country and visit more isolated parts of Austria or certain popular skiing spots, having a car can be useful. That said, most expats will hire a car for a short period rather than making a long-term investment.

Driving in Austria is generally a pleasant experience as the country is small and roads are well maintained. Outside of the cities, there is little congestion and driving provides a great opportunity for expats to experience the wonderful scenery in Austria. However, expat drivers should take care when driving during winter, especially if unused to driving in icy conditions. Ice on the roads leads to large numbers of accidents each year, so winter tyres are strongly recommended.

Expats who plan on driving in Austria should note that on Austrian motorways they are liable to pay tolls. Drivers are required to purchase an Autobahnvignette, or toll pass, in advance. Digital toll passes, which are linked with a car's licence number, can be purchased online, while sticker toll passes can be purchased at any petrol station. Driving on a motorway without an Autobahnvignette will result in a hefty fine.

Domestic flights in Austria

Austria is a small country, and so there is no real need to fly between destinations. It is, however, possible to fly domestically between cities in Austria, although it does mean that expats who choose this option miss out on seeing some stunning Austrian landscapes.

Domestic flights within Austria are particularly expensive and the time one saves by flying is minimal. Therefore, the majority of commuters that fly within the country do so only on business trips.

Owing to the country's significant wealth, doing business in Austria is an attractive proposition. Though Austria has a small population and little in the way of natural resources, the country has one of the highest GDPs in the world and Austrians enjoy one of the highest standards of living in Europe.

Austria is perfectly located to take advantage of the development and enlargement of the EU. In addition, Austria has the highly developed infrastructure needed to act as a bridge between Eastern and Western Europe.

Fast facts

Business hours

Mondays to Fridays 8am to 5pm, with an hour-long lunch break.

Business language

While German is the official language in Austria, English is widely spoken in business circles.

Dress

Formal and conservative, with dark-coloured business suits being the norm for both men and women.

Gifts

Not necessary in business but expected if invited into a colleague's home, flowers or chocolate will suffice.

Greetings

When meeting business colleagues, a formal handshake is appropriate at the beginning and end of the business proceedings.

Gender equality

Women are underrepresented in leadership positions in Austria. Businesswomen visiting Austria, however, can expect to be treated with a great deal of professional respect.

Business culture in Austria

Austrians take a formal and conservative approach to doing business. There is a definite hierarchical approach, with respect being granted to those in senior positions, particularly those who have high qualifications and many years of experience. Being organised, neat and respectful of the time of colleagues will go a long way towards ensuring a positive outcome.

Hierarchy

Senior management figures in Austria tend to be less open to group decision-making than in countries where a more inclusive approach is used. Management will often give direct orders to their subordinates who will then be expected to deliver on those instructions without question. Business culture in Austria is not very consensus-driven and managers are expected to be experts in their field – they are therefore considered to be in a position to make decisions alone without needing to consult their colleagues.

Respect

There is a somewhat old-fashioned sense of politeness and courtesy in the Austrian workplace. While senior managers hold most of the power within an organisation, they will rarely act in a tyrannical way. In fact, managers work hard to create a comfortable workplace. Keeping all the workers on their side is a priority. In order to maintain a respectful work environment, any form of correspondence, such as emails or memos, should convey a formal tone.

Sozialpartnerschaft

On a higher level, Austrian business culture prides itself on the concept of Sozialpartnerschaft, or social partnership, which promotes cooperation and dialogue in matters relating to industrial relations. It is important to work closely and cooperate with business partners and Austrian subsidiary companies.

Dos and don’ts of business in Austria

• Do come to meetings well prepared; this means bringing supplementary materials for all parties

• Don’t arrive late to a business meeting in Austria, as it is seen as unprofessional

• Do dress formally for business meetings in Austria

• Do address people by their titles such as Herr (Mr), Frau (Mrs) or Fräulein (Miss), or in the case of senior management, by their academic or professional titles

• Don’t assume that Austrians are like Germans. While they speak German, Austria is a country with a great sense of history and a unique culture.

Expats who are not citizens of EU-member states must obtain a work permit to legally take up employment in Austria. There are a number of different types of work permits available depending on an expat's field of work and their level of skill and qualifications.

It is important to note that expats from non-EU-member states must apply for the relevant entry visa or work permit at the Austrian embassy or consulate in their home country prior to travelling to Austria.

Types of work permits in Austria

Red-White-Red Card

Valid for two years, this work-and-residence permit is granted to non-EU foreigners who score adequately on a points-based immigration system. Points are granted for various desirable attributes, such as special skills and qualifications, work experience and language skills.

EU Blue Card

This is a residence-and-work permit which allows highly qualified non-EU citizens to live and work in Austria for a period of up to two years.

Applicants for an EU Blue Card must have completed a university degree course of at least three years. Their qualifications must match the job profile and the salary specified in the contract must be at least one and half times higher than the average yearly income of full-time workers in Austria. This type of work permit will only be granted if the Austrian Public Employment Service is satisfied that the company could not find a suitable Austrian or EU citizen to do the job.

Red-White-Red Card Plus

After two years working for the same employer, Red-White-Red Card and EU Blue Card holders become eligible to apply for a Red-White-Red Card Plus. This gives expats fixed-term settlement and free access to the labour market, allowing them to change employers without having to reapply for a new card.

Family members moving to Austria to join either an Austrian citizen or a holder of an employment card are eligible for a Red-White-Red Card Plus right away.

Job Seeker Visas for Austria

This type of work permit is aimed at highly qualified non-EU citizens who want to work in Austria but have not yet secured a job and therefore cannot apply for an EU Blue Card or a Red-White-Red Card. As with the Red-White-Red Card, the Job Seeker Visa utilises a points-based system that applicants must satisfy to be eligible for this visa.

Under a Job Seeker Visa, an expat is allowed to visit Austria for up to six months for the purpose of finding and securing a job, but it does not allow them to work. Once expats have secured a suitable position, they must still apply for a relevant work permit.

*Visa requirements can change at short notice and expats should contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.

Early history

• Pre-history: Archaeological evidence suggests that the area that is now Austria was inhabited as early as the Palaeolithic era. The Celts were the first recorded civilisation to settle in the region.

• 15 BCE: After an initially peaceful occupation for the prior two decades, the Romans invade, claiming the land as far as the Danube River as part of the Roman Empire. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the region is ruled by various Germanic tribes and kingdoms.

Babenberg era

• 976 CE: Leopold I from the House of Babenberg becomes the first margrave of Austria, marking the beginning of the Babenberg rule in Austria.

• 1156: An area corresponding to modern Lower Austria is established as an independent duchy under the Babenberg dynasty.

• 1192: The Babenberg family gains a significant portion of territory as they win the duchy of Steiermark.

• 1246: The Babenberg line ends and is succeeded by the House of Habsburg.

Habsburg era

• Late 1200s: After Rudolf I's election as King of Germany in 1273, the Habsburg dynasty rises to power, gradually expanding its territory to include much of Central Europe. The Habsburgs go on to rule Austria for over six centuries, and during this time, Austria becomes a centre of culture and learning.

• 1500s: The Reformation sweeps through Europe, but the Habsburgs remain Catholic. They implement counter-reformation measures to maintain the dominance of the Catholic Church in the country, causing a mass emigration of Protestants to other countries such as Germany.

• Early 1800s: France, under Napoleon Bonaparte, defeats Austria in several wars, leading to significant territorial concessions. Though brief, French rule has a lasting impact on the country, particularly in legal and administrative reforms.

• 1815: The Habsburgs regain control of Austria after Napoleon's defeat.

• 1848: The March Revolution occurs as a series of liberal revolts across the Habsburg Empire. Emperor Ferdinand I abdicates in favour of his nephew, Franz Joseph, who will reign until 1916.

• 1867: The Austro-Hungarian Empire is established, uniting Austria and Hungary under a dual monarchy. This period marks the country's peak of power and influence in Europe.

World War I

• 1914: The outbreak of World War I profoundly impacts Austria-Hungary as the empire suffers significant losses and defeat in the war, leading to its eventual collapse and the formation of the First Austrian Republic in 1918. In 1919, the signing of the Treaty of Saint-Germain officially dissolves the Austro-Hungarian Empire and establishes the borders of the Republic of Austria.

Anschluss and World War II

• 1938: Austria is annexed by Nazi Germany, marking the start of the Anschluss. Austria is occupied by Nazi forces during World War II, suffering significant damage during the war.

• 1945: By the war's end, more than 65,000 Jewish Austrians have been killed, with the total death toll for Austria at 250,000.

Post-War era

• Post-1945: Austria is occupied by Allied forces and undergoes significant political and economic reforms.

• 1955: The Austrian State Treaty is signed by the UK, France, the US and the USSR, declaring Austria an independent and neutral country.

Modern Austria

• 1995: Austria becomes a member of the European Union.

• 2020: Austria's first case of Covid-19 is identified, and the Austrian government implements measures to contain the virus, such as widespread lockdowns and restrictions, leading to significant economic impact. More than 6 million cases of Covid-19 are diagnosed over the next few years, with a death toll of over 22,000.

Austria, officially the Republic of Austria, is a landlocked East Alpine country in the southern part of Central Europe, and an increasingly popular expat destination. Newcomers to Austria are enchanted by a country of picturesque historical little villages and modern cities, and they often elect to put down permanent roots. 

Living in Austria as an expat

It is no wonder that so many expats are choosing to settle in Austria. Brimming with charm but also boasting efficiency and excellent service delivery, Austria and specifically Vienna has on several occasions been named the most liveable place in the world. The country also holds its own in the commercial and industrial sectors. Expats looking for a job in Austria have a good chance of finding employment in understaffed industries such as project management, engineering, research, finance and logistics. 

Getting around in Austria is simple and straightforward, with efficient and well-maintained public transport facilities throughout the country. Trains are the easiest means of travel between cities, while buses connect many of the smaller towns to the main rail network. Cars are also popular and Austria’s road network is extensive.

Healthcare in Austria is of an excellent standard, too. EU citizens can get access to treatment provided that they have a European Health Insurance Card. Those from outside of the EU should arrange for temporary health insurance until they are officially registered and covered by the Austrian public health system.

Cost of living in Austria

It's a well-known fact that Austria is one of the more expensive cities in Europe, though the quality of life here more than makes up for it. Expats worried about the cost of living can manage their expenses by living in more outlying areas instead of cities like Vienna, and shopping at local cost-effective grocery stores rather than the upmarket stores that import products.

Families and children in Austria

The capital, Vienna, is home to a quarter of the country’s population, and most expats settle here. With a rich history, breathtaking architecture and an abundance of things to see and do, the city draws in droves of expat families each year. The city's high safety rating, wonderful quality of life, excellent location at the heart of Europe, as well as its host of excellent schools make it the perfect place to raise children.

Climate in Austria

The weather in Austria is marked by a moderate climate and four fairly distinct seasons. Expats moving to this central European nation should plan to bring clothing to suit sunny summer days, warm apparel for winter, and plenty of lightweight layers for the months in between.

Austria may be relatively small and landlocked, but it has oodles of charm. With impressive Baroque architecture, awe-inspiring churches and captivating cultural events, Austria will almost certainly steal the hearts of anyone who settles here.

Fast facts

Population: About 8.9 million

Capital city: Vienna (also largest city)

Neighbouring countries: Austria is a landlocked country which shares borders with Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west; Germany and Czech Republic to the north; Hungary and Slovakia to the east and Slovenia and Italy to the south.  

Geography: Austria is predominantly mountainous with the Alps running across the country. The River Danube, with its source in Germany, flows through Austria.

Political system: Federal parliamentary republic

Major religions: Catholicism

Main languages: German is the official language of Austria but English is spoken in the major cities.

Money: The Euro (EUR) is divided into 100 cents. Banking systems are sophisticated, ATMs are readily available and credit cards are accepted in most places. 

Tipping: A service charge of 5 to 15 percent is expected at restaurants. Taxi drivers should be tipped as well. 

Time: GMT+1 (GMT+2 from the last week of March to the last week of October)

Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Plugs have two round pins, sometimes with grounding clips on either side.

Internet domain: .at

International dialling code: +43

Emergency contacts: 112

Transport and driving: Like most of Europe, Austrians drive on the right-hand side of the road. The standard of road infrastructure in Austria is excellent. New arrivals may need to adjust to driving in winter when snow can make mountain passes difficult to navigate. Public transport throughout Austria is also very good, so those without a car shouldn't struggle.

Famously known as the birthplace of classical music, Austria boasts picturesque mountainscapes and a world-class quality of life, which have served to attract expats from all over the globe. As a result, the Austrian society has become incredibly diverse and is home to people of many nationalities.

Below is some useful info about diversity and inclusion in Austria.

Accessibility in Austria

While the level of accessibility varies between different provinces, Austria is known for being a largely accessible country with modern infrastructure for all to enjoy. The country is a world leader in the protection of people with disabilities and was one of the first countries to ratify the UN’s Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2008.

Originally enacted in 2006, the Austria Equal Treatment Act was amended in 2016 to ensure that all existing public buildings are accessible to all. As such, there are approximately 400 accessible train stations in Austria, while almost 100 offer mobility aids for wheelchair users. The state-owned public transport provider, ÖBB, also provides significant travel discounts to people with temporary or permanent disabilities.

Vienna, Austria’s capital, has low-floor buses and trams, while another major Austrian city, Salzburg, won the European Commission’s 2011 Access City Award. Assistance is typically available, and service animals are allowed free of charge on public trains and buses.

Useful resources

www.oebb.at

LGBTQ+ in Austria

Homosexuality was legalised in 1971 in Austria. The country is considered a more conservative European nation, but still leads the OECD as a member country with the most provisions to protect the LGBTQ+ community against discrimination. In 2009, Austria passed landmark legislation allowing legal gender change for individuals who identify as transgender.

Austria’s legislation also allows its LGBTQ+ community to start families since a historic judgement by the European Court of Human Rights that enabled stepchild adoption for same-sex partners in 2013. This catapulted the Constitutional Court of Austria’s decision in 2015 to legislate full joint adoption for same-sex couples.

While the country may have been ahead of the pack in 1971, Austria only legalised same-sex marriage and lifted the ban on gay men donating blood in 2019, symbolising the country's lack of progress in the decades before. Be that as it may, conversion therapy is still not banned in Austria.

The 2023 Spartacus Gay Travel Index ranks Austria at a noteworthy 13th for the tolerance and acceptance of LGBTQ+ travellers out of 202 countries surveyed worldwide. This is down from 4th in 2019 and 5th in 2021 respectively. Although Austria has made strides in LGBTQ+ protections, there is still some work for the country to do.

Still, the LGBTQ+ social scene in major cities such as Vienna is inclusive and lively, with a fair few gay bars sprinkled across the city. There are also many organisations and annual events celebrating the LGBTQ+ community in Austria. LGBTQ+ individuals moving to the Austrian countryside may encounter discrimination, but the locals are generally accepting and tolerant.

Events to attend

Ski Pride Kaprun (April)
One of the biggest events on the LGBT+ social calendar, Ski Pride Kaprun takes place in the ski town of Zell am See. The four-day event provides a safe space for gay men who are also winter sports enthusiasts to engage in their favourite sports while also partying with their community.

Pride Events (June to August)
The CSD Bregenz Pride Week and Linz Pride both take place in June, while the Pink Lake Festival in August is another popular event for the LGBTQ+ community.

Transition International Queer and Minorities Film Festival (November)
This film festival uses storytelling to bring to the fore the realities of being a migrant, a person of colour, disabled or transgender in Austria.

Useful resources

www.hosiwien.at
www.transx.at
www.regenbogenfamilien.at

Gender equality in Austria

Gender equality in Austria is legislated by the country’s constitution, and women are entitled to the same rights as men. Austria’s Directorate General for Women and Equality, which is under the country’s Federal Chancellery, has developed several national and regional programmes to drive gender mainstreaming and gender budgeting with the mission of reducing the glaring gender disparities in the country. Austria scored a reasonable 68.8 for gender equality out of an ideal 100 in the 2022 European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) Index, similar to Germany.

Nevertheless, Austria’s society still holds many traditional views when it comes to gender roles, with women remaining responsible for much of the housework and childcare. This has in turn affected the employment of women in the formal sector. While there is a high rate of female employment rate in the country, most women are employed in low-paying and part-time positions.

The gender pay gap in Austria is also among the highest in Europe and currently stands at over 18 percent. Professional work in Austria also remains segregated, with women being relegated to traditional care-based careers such as teaching, healthcare and social work.

Austria allows expectant mothers to take eight weeks of leave before their due date and after childbirth. This can be extended to 12 weeks in the case of birthing complications, multiple births or birth by Caesarean section. Women in Austria are also entitled to a maternity allowance and both parents can apply for parental leave and receive kinderbetreuungsgeld (childcare payments) from their health insurance provider. Fathers are entitled to one month of leave after the birth of their child, after which parental leave comes into effect.

Austria offers many protections for women and has worked towards gender mainstreaming for the past two decades. Still, more work needs to be done to drive gender equality in Austria.

Further reading

www.eige.europa.eu
www.entwicklung.at

Women in leadership in Austria

The representation of women in leadership in Austria is lacking. According to the European Women on Boards’ 2021 Gender Diversity Index, Austria lags far behind on gender diversity. The country placed 15th out of 19 countries surveyed, and was at the bottom in the category of women at the executive level.

Women only had a 32 percent share of board seats in Austria, compared to 41 percent in Norway, which leads the EU as the country with the best gender diversity on its corporate boards. Nonetheless, Austria's score of 0.45 is up from the country’s 2019 score of 0.43, signifying an improvement in its gender diversity.

The EU adopted a new law in November 2022 requiring all listed corporations in its member states to have 40 percent of non-executive directors on their boards be women by 2026. Austria has instituted dissuasive penalties such as fines to encourage companies operating in the country to achieve the quotas.

Additionally, the representation of women in Austria’s parliament has gradually increased over the last two decades and currently stands at 40 percent, with 74 of the 183 seats occupied by women. While women remain significantly underrepresented in key decision-making roles in Austria, the country is making progress in reducing gender disparities.

Useful resources

www.ncwaustria.org
www.pwnvienna.net

Mental health awareness in Austria

Mental health awareness is an especially important subject for expats, who face an elevated risk of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and sleeping difficulties. Therefore, it is even more crucial for expats with existing mental health disorders to familiarise themselves with mental health support structures in Austria.

Austria’s society still has fairly conservative views on mental health and seeking help, particularly among the older generation. This often discourages individuals from speaking with mental health professionals, further reinforcing the stigma and exacerbating mental health issues in the country.  

Fortunately, expats working in Austria are eligible for public health insurance, which typically covers psychiatrist and psychologist fees for up to 40 visits a year. Most expats moving to Austria will not have to invest in private insurance, but those who choose to will find that there are shorter waiting times for accessing mental healthcare services.

There are also non-profits and organisations that offer free therapy and emergency mental healthcare services, such as Lichtblickhof, Austrian Green Cross and Austrian Red Cross.

Useful resources

www.lichtblickhof.at
www.gesundheit.gv.at

Unconscious bias training in Austria

The concept of unconscious bias is an implicit set of social stereotypes an individual carries about groups of people different to themselves. These stereotypes are not purposefully adopted but rather develop subtly over time, and people tend to hold these unconscious biases about groups they never or rarely come into contact with. As a result, they're frequently inaccurate and based on assumptions.

Unconscious bias can greatly affect workplace dynamics and have an impact on the opportunities available to certain groups of people, which could affect a company’s talent acquisition and turnover rates. 

A 2021 survey by Statistics Austria found that 8 percent of migrant employees in the country felt discriminated against in their current workplace. There were also more than 1,400 incidents of racism reported in 2022, according to the annual report by the human rights group Civil Courage and Anti-Racism Work (ZARA). 

Some companies, especially multinational corporations, have started offering unconscious bias training to assist their employees with recognising and ultimately overcoming their biases. There are also online resources that can be used to improve one’s recognition of unconscious bias in themselves and others. 

Useful resources

implicit.harvard.edu  
www.nonprofitready.org/unconscious-bias-training

Diversification in the workplace in Austria

Ranked 2022’s best city to live in the world, Vienna and Austria as a whole have attracted expats from all over the world owing to their scenic landscapes, thriving economy and excellent social programmes. More than 17 percent of Austria’s population is expats and the country supports multiculturalism. 

The workplace in Austria is somewhat diverse, and most multinational corporations boast employees of many nationalities and languages. While most Austrians consider themselves open-minded and accepting, expats from Middle Eastern and African countries as well as women may experience some prejudice.

There are unfortunately elements of Islamophobia in Austria, as the country has banned people from wearing a veil covering their full face. Another law banning school children under 10 from wearing headscarves was struck down by the country’s constitutional court in 2020. 

Companies in Austria are, however, beginning to prioritise diversity management and recognise its value, which includes enhanced team collaboration and staff retention. 

Safety in Austria

Boasting one of the lowest crime rates in the world, Austria is an incredibly safe place to live. Violent crime such as murder rarely occurs in the country, and most expats report feeling safe in Austria. That said, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching are fairly common in the major cities and around public transport hubs, while there have been a fair few reports of house break-ins, particularly in the affluent areas. Expats should remain vigilant and keep their valuables out of sight to avoid falling victim to pickpockets.

Calendar initiatives in Austria

4 February – World Cancer Day
8 March – International Women’s Day
24 March – World TB Day
2 April – World Autism Awareness Day
19 May – Global Accessibility Awareness Day
June – Pride Month
10 September – World Suicide Prevention Day
October – Breast Cancer Awareness Month
8 October –World Mental Health Day
14 November – World Diabetes Day
16 November – International Day for Tolerance
1 December – World AIDS Day

Austrian embassies

• Austrian Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 895 6700

• Austrian Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7344 3250

• Austrian Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 789 1444

• Austrian Embassy, Canberra, Australia +61 2 6295 1533

• Austrian Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 452 9155

• Austrian Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 269 4577

• Austria Consulate, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 540 3000

Foreign embassies in Austria

• United States Embassy, Vienna: +43 1 313 390

• British Embassy, Vienna: +43 1 716 130

• Canadian Embassy, Vienna: +43 1 531 383 000

• Australian Embassy, Vienna: +43 1 506 740

• South African Embassy, Vienna: +43 1 320 6493

• Irish Embassy, Vienna: +43 1 715 4246

• New Zealand Embassy, Vienna: +43 1 505 3021

Expats moving to Austria can rest assured knowing that they will be moving to a country with one of the best healthcare systems in Europe. 

Expats in the country will be entitled to public healthcare as a result of contributions made through their taxes. Owing to the excellent standard of public healthcare in Austria, most people do not invest in private health insurance policies. Those who do have private health insurance as part of their employment package will have access to a greater number of services and shorter waiting times.

Public healthcare in Austria

The healthcare system in Austria provides free access to basic healthcare to all citizens and residents of Austria, as well as tourists and those staying in the country on a temporary basis. Basic healthcare in Austria includes treatment in public hospitals, medication, basic dental care and some specialist consultations.

EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access state healthcare during a short-term visit. UK citizens can make use of their Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the EHIC for UK citizens post-Brexit.

Health insurance in Austria

Expats working in Austria are required to pay into a health insurance scheme, which goes into a larger social security system. The system covers the contributor as well as their family for health, accident or pension insurance. The amount an individual has to pay is determined by their salary level, with health insurance, accident insurance and pension insurance all taking up a percentage of an individual's salary. The employer is also obliged to make a contribution.

Electronic health services, also known as E-services, form an important part of Austria's healthcare system. To access E-services, expats will be issued with an E-card upon registration. Through the E-card, the Austrian government processes healthcare claims electronically, significantly reducing queues, backlogs and bureaucracy. In addition, E-cards contain important information such as health records and prescribed medications.

Like most other state-funded healthcare systems, patients with E-cards can only consult medical professionals with whom the state has a partnership. However, this is not limited to public healthcare providers; about 50 percent of private-practice doctors and 75 percent of private-practice dentists have a contract with social services that covers E-card holders for all costs.

Healthcare providers who do not have any such contract are known as elective doctors. Though patients will have to pay to see elective doctors, 80 percent of the fee is reimbursed by social health insurance.

Private health insurance in Austria is generally used to complement the public health services supplied by the state. It's generally used to either cover hospital costs or daily benefits, depending on the insurance plan preferred. This allows members easier access to elective doctors and medical professionals as well as smaller wards in state and private hospitals.

Pharmacies and medicines in Austria

Pharmacies, or Apotheke as they are known locally, are easily found in all towns and cities in Austria. 

The majority of the costs of prescription medicines are covered by the state health insurance programme apart from a small prescription fee in some cases. Those with private health insurance will need to pay for their drugs and then send the receipts to the company for reimbursement. 

Pharmacies in Austria are open from 8am to 6pm from Monday to Friday and 8am to 12pm on Saturdays. Pharmacies within a particular area will be open on Sundays according to a rotating schedule. There are also a few 24-hour pharmacies, which are useful if medication is unexpectedly needed after-hours. 

Pre-travel restrictions and vaccinations for Austria

No special vaccinations are required for expats moving to Austria. However, routine vaccinations such as those for measles, mumps and rubella, tetanus and polio should be kept up to date.

Emergency services in Austria

In the event of a medical emergency, expats can dial any of the following numbers:

• 144 (ambulance)
• 141 (emergency medical service)
• 112 (European emergency number)

Local authorities in Austria are responsible for the provision of emergency services, which means that standards of emergency medical services vary slightly across the country. Nevertheless, response times throughout Austria are generally excellent. Paramedics generally speak German, but some may also speak English.

Austria is a modern, cosmopolitan and efficiently run country. Expats might even find that day-to-day life is easier in their new home than in their country of origin, and culture shock is likely to be minimal. Austria is known for its organised systems of transportation, its contemporary housing, excellent healthcare and moderate cost of living.

Language barrier in Austria

The language barrier might well prove to be the greatest challenge facing expats moving to Austria. The official language of Austria is German; however, Austrian German differs greatly from that spoken in Germany. In addition, Austrian German is full of regional particularities. Learning basic words and phrases – or even better, enrolling in a language class – will help expats integrate into Austrian culture.

While many Austrians know some English, they often hesitate to speak English unless it is necessary for foreigners to communicate with them. Expats will be relieved to know that English is widely spoken in the business world in Austria, especially in the larger urban centres.

Another barrier expats can experience when communicating with Austrians is the fact that they don't do small talk. Though natives are friendly, strangers are strangers and social exchanges tend to be more reserved in public between people who do not know each other.

Attitude toward foreigners in Austria

Austrians are quite friendly and foreigners are typically received with a warm welcome. Despite this, Austrians tend to lead more private personal lives. It can be difficult to make friends with locals unless one interacts with them on a daily basis at work or as part of a recreational activity. 

Austrians are proud of their heritage. They tend to prefer locally grown produce and locally made products over imports. This national pride can make foreigners feel alienated but they should try not to take it personally and remember that Austria is a small country that places great importance on its heritage and traditions. 

Meeting and greeting in Austria

Austrian people appreciate personal titles. It is polite to use someone's title when emailing them, addressing them in person, or introducing them to someone else. 

Austrian natives typically don't hug each other. Close friends often kiss when greeting one another on departing. Typically, women will kiss other women, men and women will kiss, but men just shake hands with other men.

Expats looking for work in Austria will find that their nationality will often affect their ability to secure a job. EU citizens can legally work in Austria without having to obtain a work permit. However, those from outside the EU (known as 'third-party nationals') will need to show that they can fill gaps in sectors lacking skilled local workers.

Job market in Austria

Plenty of engineering and construction jobs feature in Austria's list of shortage occupations, so expats with skills, qualifications and experience in these fields will have a good chance at finding work. 

Lower-level posts in the country's world-class tourism industry are also plentiful. Western Austria's winter sports region draws sporting enthusiasts of all ages and nationalities, which in turn creates huge demand for instructors, restaurant workers, chefs and housekeeping staff, especially during the peak season between November and March.

Otherwise, Vienna boasts some leading corporations in the finance and consulting sectors, but jobs in these areas are scarce for expats.

Finding work in Austria

Austria is often thought of as old-fashioned and, besides searching online, it's worth trying traditional job-hunting routes.

Online job sites and classifieds are always a good starting point, along with social-networking sites such as LinkedIn. Employers also advertise in print publications and make use of the comprehensive services of the Arbeitsmarktservice (Public Employment Service). The latter is a highly informative resource that expats can use to familiarise themselves with Austria's labour laws, work contracts and application tips.

Expats applying for work in Austria should draft both their letter of application (a cover letter) and their resume in German unless otherwise specified by the position in question. This is the official language and lingua franca of the country, though English is the dominant corporate language.

Work culture in Austria

Work culture in Austria definitely has a hierarchical structure. Those in senior positions, particularly those who have high qualifications and many years of experience, are highly regarded and deferred to. Expats from more egalitarian work cultures will have to get used to Austria's less inclusive and consensus-driven approach to management. There is a somewhat old-fashioned sense of politeness and courtesy in the Austrian workplace, and any form of correspondence, such as emails or memos, should convey a formal tone.

On a higher level, Austrian work culture prides itself on the concept of Sozialpartnerschaft, or social partnership, which promotes cooperation and dialogue in matters relating to industrial relations. It is important for entrepreneurs and business owners to work closely and cooperate with local business partners and Austrian subsidiary companies.

Expats will find that, although their options for accommodation in Austria are limited in variety, they are plentiful in number. Vienna is characterised by older apartments in the classical Austrian style. Further afield, more housing options present themselves, such as modern luxury apartments and standalone houses.

Types of accommodation in Austria

The type of property available to expats moving to Austria will depend largely on where they choose to settle. The majority of new arrivals tend to be found in Vienna. Space is limited in Vienna and most of the accommodation options will be studios or apartments. Houses and cottages are more likely found in the suburbs or rural parts of Austria rather than in city centres. Regardless of the type of accommodation, the standard is generally high, with indoor heating being a standard feature.

Expats are advised that most shared-housing options will be at least partially furnished, while whole apartments are usually unfurnished. If opting for an unfurnished option, shipping furniture to Austria (especially from within the EU) is a viable option. There are plenty of excellent furniture stores around (such as IKEA) where expats will find everything they need.

Finding accommodation in Austria

Renting property in Austria is a reasonably straightforward process, as the vast majority of apartments are rented through real-estate agents. Expats should be aware that there are better seasons in which to hunt for accommodation. The beginning of the academic year (September) is a particularly poor time, as the influx of students from all over Europe stiffens the competition.

Unless expats speak fluent German, navigating property websites or classifieds sections of newspapers will be difficult. Most new arrivals therefore opt to save time by hiring an estate agent. Not only do agents help expats overcome the language barrier, they also have an intimate knowledge of the local property market, which is helpful in finding a property that meets an individual's requirements. They charge the equivalent of up to two months' rent for their services.

Renting accommodation in Austria

Renting accommodation in Austria is a fairly straightforward process for expats. Generally, the hardest part is finding a real-estate agent, after which it tends to be smooth sailing.

Making an application

Once an expat has found an apartment or property they would like to rent, they need to send their proof of identity, Austrian visa and proof of employment or student ID to their real estate agent. After this a lease will be sent through that should be signed.

Deposits

Up to three months' worth of rent will be required as a deposit to cover any potential damage to the unit. It is important to keep the unit and any provided appliances undamaged to guarantee that the deposit is returned in full. 

Signing a lease

Expats should read their leases carefully and, if necessary, have it translated. Leases usually run for at least three years – people living in Vienna tend not to move often because of the expenses involved in finding and securing a lease. 

Leases can be terminated early after a certain period of time, but a written letter detailing the desire to vacate is needed. Leases generally require that notice is given three months before leaving.

Utilities

Expats should be advised that, under normal circumstances, they will be responsible for all their utility bills; however, it is possible – and probably desirable – for expats to pay a flat monthly fee to their estate agent that covers their rent and all their utility bills (including broadband internet).

Expats moving to Austria will find the high cost of living is a small price to pay for the excellent quality of life their move will afford them. Vienna, in particular, offers expats a superb quality of life but comes at an especially high cost. Vienna ranked 21st out 227 cities in Mercer's cost of living survey for 2022. While the city remains less expensive than other major European cities such as Zurich, Copenhagen and London, the cost of living in Vienna is well above that of places like Brussels and Berlin.

That said, the cost of living in Austria naturally varies according to location (urban centres are more expensive than rural villages) and personal choice – factors that can certainly influence one's bank balance at the end of the month.

However, expats should note that food costs in Austria are high, especially during winter when fresh fruits and vegetables are more likely to be scarce. The price for purchasing housing is astronomical. Sending children to international schools can also monopolise a fair chunk of an expat's salary.

Cost of accommodation in Austria

Most expats prefer to rent accommodation in Austria, especially as purchasing property in Austria is unaffordable for most.

When initially signing a lease, expats should also anticipate paying at least the equivalent of two months' rent as a refundable deposit in addition to the first month's rent. If using a real-estate agent, the bill may amount to an additional two to three months' rent.

Cost of transportation in Austria

The majority of Austrian cities and towns are well connected by an efficient and reliable public transport system. Larger metropolises feature underground metro trains, tramlines, buses and even suburban railways, while smaller towns may only have one or two modes of transit. Public transport in Austria is moderately priced by European standards.

Cycling is also popular in Austria. Many cities have incorporated bike lanes into their city planning.

Austrians love automobiles. Expats who choose to live outside of the city may opt to buy a car. Note that parking is at a premium, both in terms of availability and price. Owning and driving a car is expensive, and in many cases, it's more of a headache than a help.

Cost of groceries in Austria

Austria has some of the highest food costs in Europe. Buying in bulk can minimise expenditure. Shopping at grocery stores and cooking at home is a good alternative to eating out, cutting down costs.

Penny Markt is probably the most reasonably priced supermarket chain, though at the sacrifice of the quality and selection of the goods available. Spar Gourmet and Merkur are high end, and everything else falls somewhere in between. Fruits and vegetables can be expensive and hard to find out of season.

Cost of education in Austria

Expat residents can send their children to Austrian public schools for free. However, the curriculum is taught in German. If an expat child doesn't already speak some German this can be a difficult option.

There are many international schools in the larger Austrian cities, but these can be expensive. Tuition fees vary depending on the school and the age of the child.

Cost of living chart for Austria

Prices may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below is based on average prices in Vienna for August 2022.

Expats relocating to Austria can look forward to dealing with a banking system that is modern, efficient and user friendly. Opening a bank account is a fairly straightforward task. There are a large variety of bank accounts available, and internet banking is a standard feature in Austria.

Money in Austria

The official currency used in Austria is the Euro (EUR), which is subdivided into 100 cents.

• Notes: 5 EUR, 10 EUR, 20 EUR, 50 EUR, 100 EUR, 200 EUR and 500 EUR

• Coins: 1 cents, 2 cents, 5 cents, 10 cents and 20 cents, and 1 EUR and 2 EUR

Banking in Austria

Austria offers myriad reliable, high-quality banking institutions for expats to choose from. Popular local banks include Bank Austria, Erste Group Bank and Raiffeisen Zentralbank. There are also multinational banks with a presence in the country, including Deutsche Bank, CitiBank and Western Union Bank.

Opening a bank account

Opening a bank account in Austria is a straightforward process. Some banks allow accounts to be opened online, while others require new customers to visit the bank in person to open an account.

Expats considered residents of Austria should have no problem getting started. Due to legislation some local banks only provide limited or no services to non-residents. Non-resident expats should therefore make sure their desired bank is able to assist.

Mobile and internet banking are popular in Austria and are offered as free services by the major banks.

ATMs and credit cards

Bank branches have ATMs attached that let people withdraw cash, get account statements and transfer money 24 hours a day. ATMs can also easily be found in shopping centres and main streets.

Taxes in Austria

All foreign nationals working in Austria for more than six months per tax year are defined, for taxation purposes, as residents in Austria. This means that they are liable for taxation on all the income they earn worldwide. Non-residents for tax purposes only pay taxes on their Austrian income. Personal income tax is deducted directly from an individual's salary, on a progressive tax scale of up to 55 percent. 

*Information about tax allowances and rates change regularly so expats are advised to check with the authorities for the latest information

Education in Austria is generally considered to be of a good standard and on par with that in other prominent European countries.

Standard Austrian public schools can be attended free of charge, but they are taught in German, and many foreign parents – particularly those with older children – feel that the language barrier is too difficult to overcome.

There are a few bilingual public schools, which can be a good midway point for those who nevertheless want their children to learn German and integrate into the local population. 

There are also private international schools that teach foreign curricula. These schools provide the opportunity for a child to continue with a familiar curriculum with minimal disruption.

Public schools in Austria

Schooling in Austria is compulsory between the ages of six and 15 (Grades 1 through 9). Compulsory schooling begins with primary school (Volksschule or Grundschule) and ends with the completion of junior secondary school (Hauptschule), co-operative intermediary school (Kooperative Mittelschule) or grammar school (Gymnasium). Following this, students wanting to continue on an academic track undertake higher secondary education, while those in search of professional training can undertake a vocational track at a commercial school.

Bilingual public schools

Bilingual public schools are an attractive option for expats who are eager to have their children interact with local students and learn the local language. As part of the public system, these schools are free and follow the Austrian national curriculum.

Instruction in bilingual schools is given in both English and German, and young expat children tend to achieve fluency in both languages quickly and efficiently. Older children may initially struggle, as the curriculum is tailored to those who have knowledge in both languages, but still, with a little determination they can succeed.

Space can be limited, especially for the popular schools in high demand. Students may need to attend an alternative school while waiting for admission.

International schools in Austria

There are a few privately run international schools in Austria, most of which are based in Vienna. The international schools offer either a foreign-country curriculum or an International Baccalaureate curriculum, and are taught in either English or the language of the sponsoring country. Many expat parents prefer to send their children to these schools to eliminate difficulties created by the language barrier, and to allow children to continue with a familiar curriculum and teaching style.

Such comforts are naturally accompanied by high costs, with tuition varying depending on the child's age and school. The more popular schools have limited space, and children still stand the chance of being denied entrance even after paying a hefty application fee. For this reason, it's best to start research and applications as early as possible.

Special-needs education in Austria

Learners officially labelled as having special educational needs attend mainstream schools as far as possible or, for severe disabilities, special schools designed to cater to their specific needs. According to Austrian law, parents have the right to choose the kind of schooling they prefer for their child.

Special schools educate disabled children through a variety of methods depending on the disability by means of small learner groups, specially trained teachers, curricula which pay attention to the respective disabilities and special methods and materials.

Education in special schools covers the whole period of compulsory schooling. After academic education, a pre-vocational year takes place in special schools, during which learners are supported in the transition period from school to the labour market.

Tutoring in Austria

Tutors are widely used in Austria to improve and assist children's schooling. Tutors might be employed to assist in specific subjects such as maths or science, or expat parents will often hire a tutor to improve their child's German language proficiency. Tutors are further used in preparation for important exams or for university entrance exams.

Newcomers to Austria might also find that their child may benefit from having a guiding hand in navigating a new school system or just to build some confidence. Top private tuition companies include GoStudent and TeacherOn.