Settling In Austria: A Comprehensive Guide

Austria is a highly developed and industrialized country that offers a high standard of living to its residents. The country has much to offer, from its beautiful scenery and rich cultural heritage to its high-quality education and well-developed healthcare system. Austria is also known for its safe living environment and vibrant cities, including Vienna, Innsbruck, and Salzburg.

If you're thinking of settling down in Austria, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, it's important to determine the type of visa you need based on your reasons for moving to the country. If you're planning to stay for more than six months and are not an EU/EEA citizen or Swiss national, you will need to obtain a residence permit. The application process for a residence permit can be initiated at your nearest Austrian embassy or consulate, and you will typically need to provide proof of health insurance, financial stability, and accommodation.

Additionally, it's worth noting that Austria has a reputation for being an expensive country, especially when it comes to housing. The cost of living varies across different provinces and cities, with Vienna and Innsbruck being the most expensive. However, Austria also offers excellent public housing options and social security benefits that can help offset these costs.

To settle down in Austria, it's advisable to familiarize yourself with the local culture, language, and customs. Austrians value formality, politeness, personal presentation, and punctuality. Learning German and understanding the local etiquette will go a long way in helping you integrate into Austrian society.

Overall, with its high living standards, stunning natural scenery, and vibrant cities, Austria is an attractive destination for those looking to settle down in a new country.

Understanding the visa requirements

Austria is a highly developed and industrialized country that offers a high standard of living to its residents. It is renowned for its high-quality education, healthcare, work-life balance, and economy, making it a popular destination for expats moving to Europe.

The visa requirements for moving to Austria depend on whether you are a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, or a third-country national. Here is an overview of the different visa types and requirements:

For EU/EEA Citizens and Swiss Nationals:

EU/EEA citizens and Swiss nationals can enter Austria without a visa and stay for up to 90 days. During this time, they can work, study, or live freely in Austria. After three months, they must register their stay with the local Austrian authorities and obtain a Certificate of Registration. There is no need for a residence permit in this case.

For Third-Country Nationals (Non-EU Citizens):

Third-country nationals who want to stay in Austria for less than six months will need a visa but not a residence permit. However, if they plan to stay longer than six months, they will need to apply for a residence permit. The process usually starts with obtaining a Type D visa (long-stay visa) from the Austrian embassy in their home country. Then, once in Austria, they can apply for the specific residence permit that suits their situation. Here are some common residence permits:

• Temporary residence permit (Nufenthaltsbewilligung): For individuals who want to stay in Austria temporarily.
• Betriebsentsandter: For employees sent on temporary assignments.
• Rotationsarbeitskraft: For company representatives, managers, or executives.
• Selbständiger: For self-employed individuals.
• Forscher: For researchers in Austrian educational institutions.
• Künstler: For self-employed artists.
• Sonderfälle unselbständiger Erwerbstätigkeit: For journalists and guest lecturers.
• Student: For individuals attending a college or university in Austria.
• Schüler: For students attending school (grades 1-12) in Austria.
• Niederlassungsbewilligung: For foreign nationals planning to live in Austria for more than six months.

To apply for permanent residency in Austria as a third-country national, you must meet certain requirements, including having legal status in Austria for the past five years, being financially self-sufficient, and having health insurance during that time. Additionally, you must achieve a B1 level of German and submit a complete application in person.

For Students:

International students play an important role in Austria, and the country offers many opportunities for those seeking to settle there after their studies. Students from EU/EEA countries and Switzerland can work without restrictions during their studies and can remain in Austria after graduation to look for a job.

Third-country national students with a Student Residence Permit ("Aufenthaltsbewilligung Student") are also allowed to work during their studies. They can even establish a company or start working for a company that applies for a work permit ("Beschäftigungsbewilligung") on their behalf. After graduation, they can extend their residence permit for another 12 months to look for a job and apply for the Red-White-Red Card for Graduates. This card allows them to stay and work in Austria for a longer period and can be extended and converted into a Red-White-Red Card Plus, which offers more flexibility.

For Workers:

Austria issues work permits, known as Red-White-Red Cards, to highly skilled non-EU nationals wishing to move to the country for work. The card is issued for up to two years, and applicants must meet specific requirements, including securing a job before applying. Highly skilled workers can also apply for an EU Blue Card, which allows them to bring their family members to Austria.

For Family Reunification:

Third-country nationals legally residing in Austria can apply for a family reunification visa to bring their family members to the country. This includes minor children under 18, partners in long-term relationships, and other relatives under specific circumstances. The family visa is valid for one year and can be renewed, and it also allows the holder to work in Austria.

For Retirement:

Austria does not offer retirement visas, but financially independent individuals can obtain a residence permit known as a "settlement permit except gainful employment." However, Austria issues a limited number of these permits each year, and there are additional eligibility requirements. This permit is valid for 12 months and does not allow the holder to work.

For Investment:

Austria offers residency by investment through its investment program. However, this option is limited to 300 people annually.

Applying for a residence permit

If you are an EU, EEA, or Swiss national, you do not need a visa or residence permit to enter Austria. However, if you plan to stay longer than three months, you must register your stay with the local Austrian authorities.

For everyone else, you will need to apply for a residence permit, which can be done at your nearest Austrian embassy or consulate. This should be done in person and in your home country before entering Austria. The application process is generally straightforward, but there are a few requirements you need to keep in mind:

• You will need a valid passport and proof of health insurance.
• You will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Austria.
• You will need to provide proof of accommodation, such as a lease or rental agreement.

Once your application is submitted, the embassy will review it, and if everything is in order, you will be allowed to stay in Austria for six months. After completing the initial six months, you will be eligible for an extension.

The type of residence permit you need depends on the purpose of your stay. Residence permits are issued for either employment, study, or research.

If you are moving to Austria for work, you will need to apply for a work permit, known as the Red-White-Red Card. This type of permit is issued to highly skilled non-EU nationals and is valid for up to two years. To be eligible, you must first secure a job, as you cannot apply for the Red-White-Red Card without a job offer.

If you are a student, you will need to obtain a student visa, either Visa C or Visa D. To apply for a student visa, you must first be enrolled in an Austrian university and have an acceptance letter. With this, you can apply for the visa at the local embassy or consulate in your home country. Once you obtain the visa, you can enter Austria and apply for a student residence permit.

For those moving to Austria for family reunification, you can apply for a family reunification visa, which is valid for one year and can be renewed. This visa allows you to bring your minor children (under 18) and partners in long-term relationships to join you in Austria. Other relatives may also be eligible under specific circumstances.

If you are financially independent and plan to retire in Austria, you can obtain a residence permit known as a "settlement permit except for gainful employment." However, Austria issues a limited number of these permits each year, so you must act quickly to secure a spot.

Finally, if you have the necessary financial means, you can obtain residency in Austria through investment. This is done through an investment program with an annual quota of 300.

Finding accommodation

Finding a place to live is an important part of settling down in Austria. The cost of living in Austria can be high, especially when it comes to housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is 720 EUR (790 USD) per month, while a three-bedroom apartment can cost around 1,330 EUR (1,470 USD). The cost of living varies between different provinces and cities, with Vienna and Innsbruck being the most expensive, and Graz and Klagenfurt among the most affordable.

When looking for accommodation in Austria, there are a few options to consider. Renting an apartment is a popular choice, but be aware of the high costs and ensure you are familiar with the tenancy laws before signing a lease. Alternatively, you can look into public housing options, especially in Vienna, where about 60% of residents live in social housing. To be eligible for public housing, your income must not exceed 48,400 EUR (53,225 USD).

If you are a student, you may want to consider staying in a dormitory or a shared apartment, which can be more affordable. Additionally, if you are moving to Austria for work, you may be able to get accommodation assistance from your employer.

When renting in Austria, you will need to provide proof of accommodation, such as a lease or rental agreement. You will also need to register your address at the local registry office (Meldeamt) within the first three days of your arrival. This is a crucial step, as the confirmation of registration (Anmeldebescheinigung) is required for your residence permit.

It is recommended to start the process of finding accommodation a few months before your intended arrival in Austria, especially if you plan to apply for a residence permit, as this can take some time to process.

Learning the local language

The official language of Austria is German, so it is useful to learn the language before moving there. While English is widely spoken, it has no official status in Austria.

If you are planning to apply for permanent residency in Austria, you must fulfil Module 2 of the Integration Agreement, which involves achieving a B1 level of German.

• Start learning the language before your move: You can find many resources online or enrol in a language course to start learning basic German. This will help you hit the ground running once you arrive in Austria.
• Enrol in a language school: Once you arrive in Austria, consider enrolling in a language school to improve your German skills. This will not only help you with the language but will also be a great way to meet new people.
• Practice with locals: Austrians will appreciate it if you make an effort to speak their language. Don't be shy to strike up conversations with locals and practice your German. You can also join community groups and clubs to meet people and improve your language skills.
• Watch local media: Watching Austrian television shows and movies is a great way to familiarise yourself with the language and pick up on the nuances of pronunciation and slang.
• Listen to German music: Music is a fun way to learn a new language. Listen to German songs and try to sing along to improve your vocabulary and pronunciation.
• Use language learning apps: There are many language learning apps available that can help you learn German at your own pace. These apps often have games and interactive activities to make learning fun and engaging.
• Be patient and consistent: Learning a new language takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and try to practise German a little every day. Consistency is key to making progress.

Exploring the culture and customs

Austria is a landlocked country in south-central Europe, with a rich history and diverse landscapes. The country is divided into nine 'Bundeslander' or 'single lands/provinces', each with its own unique culture and traditions. The geographic and geopolitical differences between these regions are visible in their heritage, foods, architecture, and celebrations.

Austria was once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which also included present-day Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as parts of Poland, Romania, and Italy. This shared history has influenced Austrian culture, as have more recent events such as World War II and the Catholic Church. The values of cooperation, formality, and 'gemütlichkeit' (warmth and happiness) are cornerstones of contemporary Austrian culture.

Language

The official language of Austria is German, and it is spoken by 98% of the population as a mother tongue. However, there are distinct differences between the many regional dialects, and even the standard 'Hochdeutsch' varies from region to region. For example, the word for 'potato' in Austrian German is 'Erdapfel', while in German it is 'Kartoffel'. Slovene is an official language in the province of Carinthia, and other minority languages include Croatian and Hungarian. Nearly all Austrians are bilingual or multilingual.

Religion

The majority of Austrians are Roman Catholic (74%), with smaller numbers of Protestants (5%), Muslims (4%), and other religions (17%).

Social Structure and Customs

The family is the basis of Austrian social structure, and weekends are usually devoted to family activities, often outdoors. Dinner is eaten together in the evening, and Sundays are often spent visiting grandparents or hiking in the countryside. Austrians take pride in their homes, keeping them neat and tidy, and only close friends and relatives are invited inside.

Punctuality is highly valued in Austria, and social invitations are extended well in advance, with more time given for more formal occasions. Austrians are generally conservative, prudent, and moderate in their behaviour, and they value privacy and personal space. It is customary to knock on doors before entering, and to ask permission before taking photos or videos of someone.

Austrians enjoy acquiring knowledge and learning, and they appreciate enriching conversations about a variety of topics. They also enjoy talking about their home region, and showing admiration for Austria's natural beauty and landscapes. However, it is important not to make assumptions or stereotypes about Austrians based on the movie 'The Sound of Music'.

Food and Drink

Austria's cuisine is known for being hearty and meat-heavy, with dishes like schnitzel and sausage. While Austrian food may not be as spicy as Indian cuisine, it is delicious and satisfying, with plenty of options to explore.

Festivals and Celebrations

Austria is known for its charming cultural festivals and regional traditions, which are often celebrated wholeheartedly by the people. These include the Daffodil Festival, the Summer Solstice Fire, and the Christmas markets and festive traditions during Advent. The ball season in Austria is also a highlight, with elegant dances and culinary delights.

Arts and Culture

Austria has a rich artistic heritage, with a deep appreciation for music, art, writing, and architecture. The country has produced several famous composers, including Mozart, and Vienna is associated with the operetta and the waltz. Classical and romantic music are particularly popular, and it is common for Austrians to be members of bands, choirs, or informal music groups.

Austria also has a strong coffeehouse culture, with cafes serving as meeting places for writers, poets, and artists. The country is also known for its castles, palaces, monasteries, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering a wealth of cultural experiences.

Frequently asked questions