Austria has a healthy economy and a thriving tourism industry, perfect for those seeking a new career challenge. Discover what it’s like to work in one of the richest countries in the world…
Austria is regularly voted among the top countries in the world for a high standard of living and with approximately 98% of Austria’s 8million population speaking German, taking a job in the country and immersing yourself in the workforce could be a great way to acquire a second language and give your CV a boost.
Unemployment here is low compared to other European Union (EU) countries, and no additional work permits are needed for EU citizens.
Find out if Austria is the perfect place to kick start your career.
Job market in Austria
The Austrian economy is strong and growing steadily, the service industry is the fastest growing industrial sector and Austria is well known for its foodstuffs, mechanical engineering, construction, chemicals and vehicle manufacturing industries.
The Austrians are also famed for their arts and crafts including luxury handcrafted items, ceramics and costume jewellery.
Austria is a popular tourist destination thanks to the Alps and cities such as Vienna and Salzburg, so if you’re after seasonal work Austria’s tourism industry is the best place to look. There are opportunities to work in restaurants or as ski instructors in the country’s famous ski-resorts.
Job vacancies
Search for jobs in Austria at:
- EURES Job Search
- Jobnet Austria (in German)
- Stepstone Austria
Work experience and internships in Austria
In Austria, placements and internships are common and flexible, ranging from just a few weeks to a year. There are opportunities available throughout the year and these are listed on websites such as the Austrian Employment Service (AMS).
Internships and summer work placements for students can also be arranged by:
- AIESEC UK – for students and recent graduates;
- IAESTE UK – for science, engineering and applied arts students.
Volunteering in Austria
If you want to improve your CV and language skills, as well as demonstrate your ability to work in a multilingual environment, you may be interested in volunteering in the country.
The European Commission (EC) funds a scheme called The European Voluntary Service (EVS), which is aimed at 17 to 30-year olds who want to volunteer abroad. Opportunities can last for up to 12 months.
Accommodation, travel, food and insurance are all covered by a European grant and you even receive a personal allowance each month.
Other volunteering schemes are available through:
Language requirements
The key to gaining employment in Austria is being able to speak German. For almost all jobs, it’s essential that you have a good understanding of the language (both spoken and written).
The Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch (ÖSD) is Austria’s officially recognised examination system for German as a foreign language, with exam centres all over the world.
Other institutions and organisations also offer a variety of German language courses. For more information, visit the association of Austrian language schoolsCampus Austria.
Austrian visas and immigration
According to the EC, European Union (EU) citizens have the right to:
- move to another EU country to work without a work permit;
- enjoy equal treatment with nationals in access to employment, working conditions and all other social and tax advantages;
- stay in the country even after employment has finished.
For more information and to check what conditions and restrictions apply, see:
- European Commission – Free Movement EU Nationals
- Europa – Work-Related Rights
- Europa – Workers and Pensioners
EU nationals may also be entitled to have certain types of health and social security coverage transferred to the country in which they go to seek work. For country-specific information on social security entitlements, see European Commission – Your Rights Country by Country.
Depending on your occupation, your qualifications may be recognised in some countries. To find out more, visit Europa – Qualifications for Employment.
