Working in Austria

Austria's economy is stable, and the country's job market offers plenty of opportunities for skilled expats. If you're a non-EU citizen, you may find it challenging to secure work in Austria, but being able to speak German can help. 

EU citizens can legally work in Austria without obtaining a work permit. However, those from outside the EU (known as 'third-party nationals') must show that they can fill gaps in sectors lacking skilled local workers.

Job market in Austria

Engineering and construction jobs are on Austria's list of shortage occupations, so if you have skills, qualifications, and experience in these fields, you will have a good chance of 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 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.

Useful links

• Austrian Migration – Shortage Occupations

Finding work in Austria

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

Online job sites and classifieds are always good starting points, along with social networking sites such as LinkedIn. Employers also advertise in print publications and use the comprehensive services of the Arbeitsmarktservice (Public Employment Service). The Public Employment Service is an informative resource that you can use to familiarise yourself with Austria's labour laws, employment contracts, and application tips. 

We recommend drafting your letter of application (cover letter) and resume in German unless the position specifies otherwise. This is the country's official language and lingua franca, though English is the dominant corporate language.

Non-EU expats must obtain a visa and work permit to legally work in Austria. If you already have a job offer, you can apply for a Red-White-Red Card, which allows you to live and work in Austria for 12 or 24 months. 

Useful links

• Public Employment Service Austria (AMS)
• Adzuna
• Karriere

Work culture in Austria

Austria's work culture has a hierarchical structure. Those in senior positions, particularly those who are highly qualified and experienced, are highly regarded and deferred to. If you're from a more egalitarian work culture, it may take some time to get used to Austria's less inclusive and consensus-driven approach to management. 

The Austrian workplace has a somewhat old-fashioned sense of politeness and courtesy, 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 industrial relations. Entrepreneurs and business owners must work closely and cooperate with local business partners and Austrian subsidiary companies.