Moving to Austria

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

Working in Austria

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. Those looking for a job in Austria can find employment in understaffed industries such as project management, engineering, research, finance, and logistics. 

If you're from a non-EU/EEA country, it's likely that you'll need a work permit and visa. This process is usually done before you make the move and the work permit is usually tied to a specific job. If you're a highly skilled professional, you may be able to get a jobseeker visa, which allows you to enter the country to search for a job. 

Working in Austria
Business Culture in Austria

Finding accommodation in Austria

Demand for accommodation in Austria's major cities like Vienna is high, but fortunately, supply is also adequate. Apartments are the most common form of housing in the country, but it's also possible to find single-family homes and condominiums. 

Rental processes in Austria are fairly simple and though buying a home is possible, it's expensive. As such, many Austrians rent instead of owning their home.

Renting Accommodation in Austria

Getting around in Austria

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.

If you choose to drive, you'll have to account for parking and toll fees. Cycling is also growing in Austria, particularly in Vienna, and is another affordable yet healthy way to get around. 

Transport and Driving in Austria
Getting Around in Vienna

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. In the 2024 Mercer Cost of Living Survey, Vienna ranked 24th out of 226 cities, making budgeting essential when moving to Austria.

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.

Cost of Living in Austria
Cost of Living in Vienna

Lifestyle 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 people each year. Work-life balance is important in Austria, with many locals working to live rather than living to work. 

Austria is the capital city of classical music, so you can find plenty of music venues around the country. Markets are also popular, and there are plenty of museums and art galleries to explore. Thanks to Austria's beautiful natural landscapes, there's an array of outdoor activities you can enjoy including mountain biking, ice skating, and skiing. 

Shopping, Attractions and Activities in Vienna

Healthcare in Austria

Healthcare in Austria is also of an excellent standard. EU citizens can access treatment provided that they have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) while UK citizens can get healthcare on a short-term basis using the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Those from outside the EU should arrange for temporary health insurance until they are officially registered and covered by the Austrian public health system.

Healthcare in Austria
Find Hospitals in Vienna

Finding a school in Austria

Austria'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. The standard of education in Austria is high and public schools are, but the language of instruction is German, which may be challenging for expat families. 

Fortunately, the Austrian government also offers bilingual German and English schools, allowing expat children to immerse themselves in the local culture while still learning in a familiar language. Bilingual schools are popular, so it's essential to begin the admissions process as early as possible. 

International schools are a great option for expats who only be in the country for the short term. These schools offer globally recognised and foreign curricula such as that of the International Baccalaureate, the UK, and the US. It's essential to begin the enrolment process for international schools early, as some top schools can be highly competitive. 

Education and Schools in Austria
International Schools in Vienna

Climate in Austria

The weather in Austria is marked by a moderate climate and four fairly distinct seasons. Ensure that you pack 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.

Climate and Weather in Austria

Fast facts

Population: About 9.1 million

Capital city: Vienna (also the largest city)

Neighbouring countries: Austria is a landlocked country that shares borders with Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west, Germany, and the 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: Restaurants expect a service charge of 5 to 15 percent, and taxi drivers should also be tipped. 

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.