Moving to Austria: the complete guide
If you are considering moving to Austria have a look at the information we gathered for you. If you are a European citizen the whole relocation process will be much easier. Austria is considered a very good place to live for expats. The country has a wide variety of landscapes, jobs, and social opportunities. However, relocating can be a big step. This is why you should consider the pros and cons of starting a new life here. Luckily for you, we collected a few interesting facts that will help you in your choice.
Moving to Austria as an EU citizen
European citizens do not require any specific VISA documentation when moving to Austria. However, if they wish to stay for a long period they will need a certificate of registration.
Moreover, the country is one of the richest in the world and is located in Central Europe, surrounded by eight countries. Austria has a population of 8,439,137 people and Vienna, the largest city in Austria has a population of 1,794,770. The life expectancy at birth is 79.5 years. According to Mercer’s 2014 Quality of Living, Survey Vienna is the top regional spot among European cities.
Austria is highly mountainous with crystal clear lakes and extended forests. Foreigners and expats will enjoy the climate of Austria. The cold and snowy weather opens up a wide range of snow activities: skiing, snowboarding, sleigh rides, and skating are very popular during winter. Expats who are fond of hiking can tackle the famous Austrian Alps during summer.
Why is Austria the best place to live?
Austria is a great place to live thanks to its variety of nature, food, and culture. Its incredible history, architecture, and art made the country the best place to live.
Expats who are beer lovers will enjoy the superb taste of Austrian beer, not to mention Austria’s exciting nightlife. As part of your decision to move it is also necessary to learn basic German. Some other languages spoken are Croatian, Hungarian, and Slovenian. Austria is also home to famous composers like Beethoven and Mozart. For this reason, Vienna is considered the European capital of classical music.
Expats and visitors will be amazed by the excellent transportation system ranging from underground trains to trams and buses. With a low crime rate and a stable government.
Moving to Austria: a useful checklist to help you move smoothly
Here is a list to find out extra information to help you move to Austria smoothly:
- Relocating to Austria may require shipping over some personal possessions from home, and expats will need to be aware that there will be regulations to comply with and duties.
- Expats who are preparing to relocate to Austria will find a variety of available job opportunities, particularly in the electronics, chemical, electrical and mechanical, and steel industries.
- Banned from entering this country are all pornographic materials in any medium.
- European citizens do not need a visa or permit to work or stay in Austria. The only requirement is to register at the local police station within three days of arrival.
Is moving to Austria a good idea?
Moving to Austria can be a great idea for many reasons, including its high quality of life, excellent healthcare system, beautiful natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and central European location. Austria offers a high standard of living, with cities like Vienna consistently ranking among the world’s most livable.
Is it difficult to immigrate to Austria?
Immigrating to Austria can be challenging, but recent changes have streamlined the process. New policies aim to attract talent and simplify entry, with streamlined work visas for high-demand jobs and faster processing times. However, there are still requirements to meet, such as language proficiency and integration courses.
Can I move to Austria without a job?
While it’s possible to move to Austria without a job, it’s generally more difficult. Most work-based visas require a job offer, and employers must prove they couldn’t fill roles locally before hiring non-EU candidates. Students can work part-time while studying, and post-study work visas allow graduates 12 months to secure jobs.
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Austria?
The cost of living in Austria varies depending on location and lifestyle. The average monthly household expenditure is around €3,250, with forecasted monthly per capita spending for 2025 at €2,402. Average monthly rent, including running costs, is about €658.50, and utility bills range from €212.50 to €500 per month.
Is 3000 euro a good salary in Austria?
A salary of 3000 euros per month can be considered good in Austria. It’s above the average monthly per capita spending and sufficient for comfortable living in most areas outside Vienna. However, the adequacy of this salary depends on factors such as location, family size, and personal lifestyle choices. In expensive cities like Vienna, it may be less comfortable for a family but suitable for a single person.
