Finding Employment In Austria: A Comprehensive Guide

Finding a job in Austria can be a daunting task, especially if you are not a resident of the EU/EEA. However, there are several ways to increase your chances of success. You can start by conducting a self-assessment to identify jobs that align with your skills and experience. It is also worth considering your network to see if anyone living in Austria may be able to discuss job openings or suggest ways to find availability. If you are an EU/EEA resident, you can contact the Public Employment Service Austria (AMS) via the European Job Mobility Portal (EURES) before you arrive in the country. You can also use the WORK in AUSTRIA TALENT HUB to create a profile with a CV in German and English to be discovered by Austrian companies.

Job-seeking visas for third-country nationals

If you are a third-country national looking to find a job in Austria, you will need to apply for a job-seeker visa. This visa is valid for a maximum of six months and will allow you to enter the country and search for jobs. Once you find a job, you will need to obtain a work permit to stay in the country.

To find job openings in Austria, you can use online employment services such as EURES, WienWork, and Jobs in Vienna. The Public Employment Service Austria (AMS) also offers several web tools, including an orientation tool and an online platform for young career starters. However, keep in mind that some employers may prefer applications submitted via post. When applying, ensure your CV is in German and does not exceed two pages. Include a cover letter, and if invited for an interview, dress formally and arrive on time as punctuality is important to Austrian employers.

If you are from the EU/EFTA, you can look for a job through the European Job Mobility Portal, EURES, which is maintained by the European Commission. The national unemployment and training office in Austria, the Arbeitsmarktservice (AMS), provides a range of services to job seekers, including job placement, vocational training programs, career counselling, and unemployment benefits.

To be eligible for a job-seeker visa as a third-country national, you will typically need to meet certain requirements, such as having a valid passport, health insurance, and proof of financial resources to support your stay. You may also need to demonstrate relevant work experience, qualifications, and completed academic or vocational training recognised in the country.

Using online employment services like EURES

If you are a resident of the EU/EEA, you can contact the Public Employment Service Austria (AMS) via the European Job Mobility Portal (EURES) before you arrive in Austria and view job vacancies. You can also upload your CV and get advice on looking for work in Austria. EURES is maintained by the European Commission and is a great resource for finding suitable openings.

The WORK in AUSTRIA TALENT HUB is another online platform where you can create a profile with a CV in German and English to be discovered by Austrian companies. On the TALENT HUB, you will also find many job adverts from Austrian companies that are specifically looking for international specialists.

If you are not an EU/EEA resident, you can apply for a job-seeker visa, which is valid for a maximum of six months.

Applying for jobs directly or using a recruitment agency

If you are an EU/EEA resident, you can contact the Public Employment Service Austria (AMS) via the European Job Mobility Portal (EURES) before you arrive in Austria and view job vacancies. You can also use the WORK in AUSTRIA TALENT HUB, where you can create a profile with a CV in German and English to be discovered by Austrian companies.

You can also look for a job directly or hire a recruitment agency to find a suitable position for you. If you are applying for an open position, you must submit your application documents with the most important documents on your experience and qualifications. Applications are rather traditional in this respect, and good preparation and research can be very helpful.

Online platforms like WienWork and Jobs in Vienna are great starting points. You can find suitable openings on the Expatica jobs board, which has a constantly updated list of jobs across Austria. If you’re from the EU/EFTA, you can look for a job through EURES, the European Job Mobility Portal, which is maintained by the European Commission. As well as looking for work, you can upload your CV and get advice on looking for work in Austria.

The AMS provides a range of services to job seekers and employers, including job placement, vocational training programs, career counselling, and unemployment benefits. If you are not sure what type of job you should apply for, the AMS offers several web tools (all in German). There is an orientation tool and an online platform for young career starters.

When sending your application, include your CV (no longer than two pages) and a cover letter, both written in German. If you are invited for an interview, make sure to dress formally and arrive on time, as Austrian employers consider punctuality to be of great importance.

Submitting applications in German

If you are applying for a job in Austria, you will need to submit your application documents, including a CV and cover letter, in German. You can also create a profile with a CV in German and English on the WORK in AUSTRIA TALENT HUB, where Austrian companies can discover you.

Your CV should not exceed two pages and should be accompanied by a cover letter, both written in German. If you don't speak German, you should find someone who can speak German to help you with your application.

If you are not sure what type of job you should apply for, the Public Employment Service Austria (AMS) offers several web tools (all in German). There is an orientation tool and an online platform for young career starters. The AMS provides a range of services to job seekers and employers, including job placement, vocational training programs, career counselling, and unemployment benefits.

You can also look for job openings on online platforms like WienWork and Jobs in Vienna, or on the Expatica jobs board, which has a constantly updated list of jobs across Austria.

Job opportunities in Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck

If you are an EU/EEA or EU/EFTA resident, you can contact the Public Employment Service Austria (AMS) via the European Job Mobility Portal (EURES) before you arrive in Austria and view job vacancies. You can also use the WORK in AUSTRIA TALENT HUB, where you can create a profile with a CV in German and English to be discovered by Austrian companies.

If you are not an EU/EEA or EU/EFTA resident, you can apply for a job-seeker visa, which is valid for a maximum of six months.

There are plenty of seasonal work opportunities in Austria, particularly in Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck. During the summer months, bustling tourist destinations offer a variety of roles in bars, cafes, restaurants, and clubs.

Online platforms like WienWork and Jobs in Vienna are great starting points for job hunting in Austria. You can also find suitable openings on the Expatica jobs board, which has a constantly updated list of jobs across Austria.

In Vienna, there are many English-speaking roles available, including in engineering, robotics, and travel.

In Salzburg, there are also English-speaking jobs available, with 63 English-language jobs listed on one site.

Innsbruck has 17 English-language jobs listed on the same site.

Frequently asked questions