🇦🇹
Work & jobs in Austria
Work rules in Austria depend on your nationality and residence status. EU/EEA citizens can usually work freely; non-EU citizens should confirm that their permit allows the job before signing.
Employment offices in Austria
AMS — Arbeitsmarktservice: Employment, unemployment benefits. Phone: 050 904 940. Arbeiterkammer: Free labour-law help.
Job-search and permit steps
Meldezettel — register your address: Within 3 working days of moving in. Free. Go to any Meldeservice — Bring passport, filled Meldezettel signed by landlord. Registration confirmation given on the spot. Work permit (Rot-Weiss-Rot Karte): Points-based skilled worker card. EU/EEA no permit needed. Check points — migration.gv.at self-test — need 70/100 (skilled workers) or a job offer. Employer confirmation — Employer files at AMS. Decision 4–8 weeks. Your rights: Federal Constitutional Law — equal treatment. Discrimination — Gleichbehandlungsanwaltschaft — free, 0800 206 119. Violence — Frauenhelpline 0800 222 555, 24/7, multilingual. Labour — Arbeiterkammer — free advice for all workers (also members' families).
Contracts and worker rights
Ask for a written contract before the first shift. It should show working hours, salary, probation, holiday, sick leave and notice period. Keep payslips and messages from the employer in case you need help from a union or labour office.
Diplomas and regulated professions
Doctors, nurses, teachers, drivers, electricians and other regulated workers usually need formal recognition before working independently. Start recognition early because it can take months.
Frequently asked questions
Where do newcomers look for jobs in Austria?
Start with AMS — Arbeitsmarktservice, recognised employers, local job portals and municipal integration offices.
Which office should I contact first in Austria?
Start with AMS — Arbeitsmarktservice. For broader newcomer help, also check MA35 / Bezirkshauptmannschaft, Meldeservice, AMS — Arbeitsmarktservice.
What language will offices use in Austria?
The main administrative language is German. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
Do I need to speak the local language to work?
Not always — many international employers work in English. But for public-sector roles and most customer-facing jobs, local language is expected.
What is the minimum wage?
It varies widely across the EU. Your national employment authority publishes current rates.