Moving To Austria: A Comprehensive Guide To Migration

Austria is a popular destination for immigrants from around the world, offering a high quality of life, a strong economy, and a favourable business environment. The process of moving to Austria differs based on one's country of origin and purpose of relocation. EU and EEA citizens do not need a visa, residence, or work permit to live and work in Austria. On the other hand, non-EU/EEA citizens must apply for a visa and may need to obtain a work permit or the Red-White-Red Card, which allows qualified third-country workers and their families to permanently reside and work in Austria. Austria also welcomes international students and offers lower tuition fees compared to other countries. Additionally, Austria boasts excellent infrastructure, affordable housing and healthcare, and a healthy environment, making it an attractive choice for those seeking to relocate.

Visa and work permit requirements

If you are a citizen of an EU or EEA country, you do not need a visa or a residence or work permit to live and work in Austria. However, if you are from a non-EU/EEA country, you will need to apply for a visa and a work permit.

There are different types of visas and work permits available, depending on your qualifications and the purpose and duration of your stay. If you are a student from a non-EU country, you can work for up to 20 hours per week during your studies without a work permit. If you are a qualified worker from a non-EU country, you can apply for the Red-White-Red Card, which is a single permit for working and settling permanently in Austria. This card is also available to family members of Red-White-Red Card holders, who can apply for the Red-White-Red Card Plus. The Red-White-Red Card is issued for 24 months and allows employment with the specified employer.

If you are a highly qualified immigrant, you do not need to provide proof of a job offer before immigrating. You can apply for a 6-month job-seeker visa, and if you find a job that matches your qualifications within those 6 months, you will be issued the Red-White-Red Card without further labour market tests. The job-seeker visa can be obtained by reaching a minimum number of points (at least 70 out of 100 points) based on criteria such as professional experience, language skills, and age. From 2019, the minimum number of points may be reduced to 65 points for certain occupations where there is a need for manpower.

If you are not a qualified worker, you may still be able to obtain a restricted work permit (valid for 1 year), a work permit (valid for 2 years), or an unrestricted work permit (valid for 5 years). To apply for these permits, you may need to demonstrate that your stay will not be contrary to public order or security, or negatively affect Austria's relations with other countries. You must also have health insurance coverage that provides benefits in Austria and covers all risks.

Shipping household goods

Regulations and Documentation:

• Household goods must be owned and used for at least six months, intended solely for personal use, and qualify for importation.
• Non-EU shipments are subject to taxes, including duty, so be prepared to fulfil tax obligations.
• Ensure you have valid identification documents, such as your passport.
• Complete a customs declaration form and provide proof of ownership for your belongings.
• Demonstrate residency proof, showing that you have resided in your previous country for more than 12 months.

Selecting a Shipping Company:

• Choose a company with extensive experience and expertise in shipping to Austria, as they will be familiar with the nuances and potential challenges.
• Look for companies with positive online reviews and ratings of 4 stars or higher.
• Obtain quotes from multiple companies to compare prices and services offered. A visual survey of your household goods may be necessary for an accurate quote.
• Consider the level of service you require, such as door-to-door, door-to-port, port-to-door, port-to-port, or air freight.
• Understand the transit times and routes involved. Since Austria is landlocked, shipments typically pass through neighbouring countries such as Italy, Belgium, or Germany.

Packing and Transportation:

• Decide on the mode of transport, such as sea freight or air freight, considering factors such as cost, carbon footprint, and delivery time.
• Determine if you will ship full or part-load, depending on the volume of goods you need to transport. Full container load (FCL) is ideal for those with a high volume of goods, while Less Container Load (LCL) allows you to share a container and is more cost-effective for smaller shipments.
• Consider using professional packing services to ensure your household goods are securely packed with high-quality materials.
• Communicate with your chosen shipping company throughout the process, providing them with the necessary documentation and addressing any questions or concerns.

Remember that partnering with a knowledgeable and experienced shipping company can make the process smoother and minimise potential issues.

Relocating with pets

Relocating to a new country can be stressful, especially when you have pets. However, you will be glad to hear that importing pets into Austria is a straightforward process. Here is what you need to know about relocating to Austria with your furry friends.

First, it is important to note that some animals are banned from being imported into Austria. This includes certain dangerous reptiles and spiders, monkeys, bears, and big cats. If your pet is an exotic species, such as a turtle or parrot, you should check that it is not protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Additionally, certain animals and their reproductive parts (e.g. hatching eggs, fish spawn) may be subject to import prohibitions if they are considered invasive alien species.

Assuming your pet is not on the banned list, here are the key steps you need to take to bring them into Austria:

• Ensure your pet has a microchip that complies with ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO standard 117845. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccine is administered, and both microchips must be listed on the health certificate if your pet has a non-ISO compliant microchip.
• Get your pet vaccinated. All pets must have a valid rabies certificate signed by a veterinarian and ensure that the rabies vaccine is at least 21 days old before entering Austria. Additionally, your pet must receive a booster rabies vaccination within 12 months of its primary vaccination.
• Obtain the necessary health certificates. You will need an International Health Certificate from your vet before leaving for Austria. If you are coming from a non-EU country, you will also need a veterinary export certificate in English or German.
• Pass customs clearance. When entering Austria, you must declare your pet to the customs office at the airport and present the necessary health and vaccination certificates. Your pet must be at least seven months old to pass customs clearance unless you are coming from an EU country.
• Choose an appropriate transportation method. If you are flying, check the policies of your airline, as some may have specific requirements for transporting pets. Austrian Airlines, for example, allows small pets in the cabin and large animals in the cargo hold, depending on their size and weight.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your pet relocation process to Austria goes smoothly and that your furry friend can join you in your new home.

Austrian culture and language

Austria is a landlocked country in Central Europe with nine federated states and a diverse cultural landscape. The culture has been influenced by its surrounding countries and its historical position within the Austro-Hungarian Empire. While Austrian culture is distinct from German culture, the language has some similarities, with German being the most widely spoken language, and Croatian and Hungarian also spoken by minority groups. These three languages are taught alongside German in some bilingual schools.

Austrian society is generally formal and conservative, with a strong emphasis on family. The family is the basis of the Austrian social structure, and weekends are often devoted to family activities and spending time outdoors. Austrians are known for taking pride in their homes, keeping them neat and tidy, and only close friends and relatives are invited into the home. Social invitations are extended in advance, and the more formal the occasion, the more time between the invitation and the event.

Austria has a strong coffee culture, with many cafes where people spend their afternoons lingering over a hot drink. Popular foods include Wiener Schnitzel, sausages, and goulash, as well as desserts like apple strudel and sachertorte. Austrians are described as open-hearted but cautious, and they value hard work and creating a comfortable home. They also enjoy art, music, and sports, with many cultural and sporting events taking place across the country.

In terms of the economy, Austria is one of the wealthiest and most economically stable countries in Europe, with a high purchasing power and a strong industry sector. The country has a flexible immigration model, the Red-White-Red Card, which offers qualified workers and their families a single permit for working and settling permanently.

Benefits of moving to Austria

Austria is a popular destination for relocation, offering a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and a rich cultural heritage. Here are some benefits of moving to Austria:

High Quality of Life

Austria ranks 9th in the world for its quality of life, with a safety index of 70, making it one of the safest countries in Europe. The country also boasts clean air and drinkable tap water, contributing to the overall well-being of its citizens.

Excellent Healthcare

Austria's healthcare system is ranked among the top ten globally by the World Health Organization. The country offers universal healthcare coverage, with almost everyone covered by the public system. Residents can also opt for additional private health insurance, which provides benefits such as flexible visiting hours and private rooms.

Well-Connected Transportation System

Austria has a well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to travel within the country and to other parts of Europe. The country's train system is known for its punctuality and comfort, with a 95% punctuality rate, and offers various discounts and subscriptions, such as the Vorteilscard, which provides a 50% discount on train fares.

Outdoor Activities and Scenery

Austria is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with picturesque landscapes, mountains, lakes, and ski resorts. The Austrian Alps cover more than 60% of the country's area, providing ample opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.

Cultural Attractions and Cuisine

Austria is known for its rich cultural heritage and offers a blend of historic cities and attractions. The country is home to over 1,000 museums and the world's oldest zoo. Additionally, Austrian cuisine is renowned, with specialties such as Wiener Schnitzel and Käseknöpfle, as well as delicious desserts like Linzer cookies and Apfelstrudel.

Moving to Austria can offer a comfortable and secure environment, with a high standard of living, strong social benefits, and a balanced work-life environment. The country's visa system, while requiring some navigation for non-EU/EEA citizens, also offers various options to facilitate relocation.

Frequently asked questions