Working In Austria: All Requirements At A Glance

Austria offers diverse opportunities for international students to engage in professional activities during or after their studies. If you are considering gaining work experience or entering the job market directly, there are several important points you should be aware of. From work permits during your studies to regulations for full-time employment after graduation, here you will find all the necessary information to get an overview and prepare yourself optimally for working in Austria.

Work Permit For International Students

As an international student in Austria, you need a valid work permit to work legally. The requirements depend on your residency status and the type of visa you hold:

• Visa for Study Purposes (D Visa): This visa generally allows a limited number of working hours during the semester (a maximum of 20 hours per week) and unlimited hours during semester breaks.

• Red-White-Red Card: If you apply for this card as a student with a job offer, you can work in Austria under certain conditions. It is applicable for students who already have a specific job offer and often work in occupations with a shortage of skilled workers.

• Residence Permit for Students: If you are already studying in Austria, you can apply for a work permit under certain conditions, which allows you to work during your studies. This permit is often limited to a specific number of hours per week.

• Erasmus+ Scholarships: Students in Austria under the Erasmus+ program are often allowed to work within the program's framework, which is regulated by their home university.

You should inform yourself about the exact regulations and application procedures to ensure that you meet the legal requirements and avoid any issues with your residency status. Check with the Austrian embassy or the relevant immigration office, as well as your university, for the specific requirements for your visa type.

Working In Austria During & Beyond

Part-Time Work During Your Studies

Would you like to work in Austria while studying to earn extra income and gain valuable experience? You can do that. International students are generally allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and without restriction during semester breaks. The annual income threshold is currently set at 6,648 euros. If you earn more than this amount, you will need to pay taxes.

Popular job fields for students include service and hospitality sectors, retail, and administrative positions at the university. Make sure to adhere to the legal working hour limits to avoid any issues with your visa.

Full-Time Employment After Graduation

After your graduation, you can work full-time in Austria if you meet the requirements for an appropriate work permit. To start full-time employment in Austria, you will generally need a Red-White-Red Card or a Residence Permit for Job Search, which gives you up to 12 months to find a suitable position. Many graduates take advantage of job placement and career services offered by their university to facilitate their entry into the job market. Ensure you apply for all necessary documents and permits to work legally and successfully in Austria.

Tax Situation

As an employee in Austria, you are subject to income tax. Your tax liability depends on your income and is calculated according to the Austrian tax system. If you earn less than 12,000 euros per year, you are generally tax-free. Earnings exceeding this threshold are subject to income tax, which is typically withheld automatically by your employer. Be sure to accurately complete your annual tax return to receive any potential refunds or address additional obligations.

Self-employed individuals, freelancers, and students with multiple jobs are required to file a tax return. This also applies to students who have additional income, such as from rental or leasing activities.

Stay informed about changes in legislation and consider consulting a tax advisor or your university's HR department to ensure that you meet all obligations and take advantage of any potential benefits.