Immigration To Austria: An Easy Transition?

Immigration to Austria is easier for EU and EEA citizens, who do not need a visa or work permit. However, those from non-EU/EEA countries will need to apply for a visa and a work permit. For students, it is easier to get into the country if you can afford it. However, most degrees are taught in German, so language proficiency is important.

Visas and work permits

If you are an EU or EEA citizen, the process of moving to Austria is much easier as you do not need a visa to live there, nor a residence or work permit. However, if you are from a non-EU/EEA country, you will need to apply for a visa. This could be a restricted work permit, which lasts for one year, a work permit, which lasts for two years, or an unrestricted work permit, which lasts for five years.

If you are a student, it may be easier to get into the country, but you will need to be able to afford it. Some universities offer need-based scholarships that refund tuition, but you will need to pay upfront first. If you are looking to study journalism, you will likely need to be proficient in German, as most degrees without numerus clausus will be taught in German.

If you are looking to work in Austria, you will need to prove your funds with bank statements. Many jobs in Austria are seasonal, particularly in the winter in the Alps, but it is unclear how willing employers are to sponsor people.

Buying property

If you are from a non-EU country, certain Austrian provinces will not allow you to purchase property in your name. However, you can register it with a legal entity.

If you are an EU or EEA citizen, you will not need a visa, residence or work permit to live in Austria. This means that you will be able to buy property in your name.

You will need to prove your funds with bank statements.

If you are a student, it will be easier to get into the country. However, you will need to pay upfront for your tuition, although you may be able to get a need-based scholarship that refunds your tuition.

Language barriers

If you are moving to Austria from a non-EU country, you may face some challenges when it comes to language. While English is widely spoken in Austria, particularly in urban areas and the tourism industry, knowledge of German or its variants will be beneficial. This is especially true if you plan to work or study in Austria, as most degrees and jobs will require at least some proficiency in German.

If you are moving to Austria as a student, it is important to note that most undergraduate degrees will be taught in German. While there may be some exceptions for highly specialised or in-demand degrees where language proficiency is not a requirement, such as computer science, these are likely to be rare. Additionally, if you are hoping to study journalism, for example, your options for English-language programmes at reputable institutions may be limited.

For those seeking employment in Austria, language proficiency can also be a factor. While there may be some seasonal or low-skilled jobs available that do not require German, these are likely to be competitive and may not offer the same opportunities for career advancement.

Overall, while it is possible to get by in Austria without speaking German, having at least a basic level of proficiency can greatly improve your chances of finding work or studying at a higher level. It can also help you to integrate into Austrian society and make the most of your time in the country.

Seasonal work

The process of moving to Austria is much easier if you are an EU or EEA citizen, as you do not need a visa or a work permit. If you are from a non-EU/EEA country, you will need to apply for a visa. This could be a restricted work permit, which lasts for a year, a work permit, which lasts for two years, or an unrestricted work permit, which lasts for five years.

If you are looking for seasonal work, there are many jobs in Austria during the winter in the Alps. However, it is unclear how willing employers are to sponsor people from other countries. It may be easier to get into the country as a student, but you will need to be able to afford it. If you have a degree in a high-demand subject where language proficiency is not important, such as computer science, you may find it easier to get a job.

Student visas

If you are an EU or EEA citizen, the process of immigrating to Austria is much easier, as you do not need a visa, residence or work permit. However, if you are from a non-EU/EEA country, you will need to apply for a visa.

If you are a student, you will need to apply for a student visa to study in Austria. The requirements for a student visa include proof of funds with bank statements, proof of acceptance to an Austrian university, and proof of health insurance. You may also need to demonstrate German language proficiency, as most degrees are taught in German.

It is worth noting that some universities in Austria offer need-based scholarships that refund tuition fees, but you may need to pay upfront first. Additionally, there are job opportunities for students in Austria, particularly in the winter in the Alps. However, it is recommended that you have some financial support, as it can be expensive to study in Austria.

If you are studying journalism, it may be more difficult to find a degree taught in English at a reputable Austrian university. However, if you have a degree in a high-demand field where language proficiency is not important, such as computer science, you may find it easier to immigrate to Austria.

Overall, while it is possible to immigrate to Austria as a student, it is important to carefully consider the financial and language requirements before making the move.

Frequently asked questions