Which language certificates do I need?

Although language proficiency is not mandatory to qualify for a work permit in Austria, it is often needed to reach the necessary punctuation, which increases the chances of approval. Language certificates must not be older than 5 years and must include the full name and date of birth. In the case of online tests, a photo of the test-taker and a recorded session, confirmed by the testing institution, are required. Quick online language tests are not accepted.

Native speakers from allowed countries are exempt from testing (e.g., Indians for English), but this doesn't apply to third-country nationals educated in a different country.

Accepted German tests include ÖSD, Goethe-Institut, Telc GmbH, and Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF).

Accepted English tests include Cambridge Certificate, TELC, IELTS, TOEIC, TOEFL, and Duolingo (if you don’t already have a certificate from the institutions mentioned previously, we recommend the Duolingo test, at $49 with a certificate available in 2 days, as it is a cost-effective and efficient option).

What documents are required for a long-term visa in Austria (Red-White-Red Card)?

Securing a long-term visa in Austria, specifically the Red-White-Red Card, demands a comprehensive set of documents for non-EU citizens. Ensuring you have the following essential documents in order will significantly smooth the application process:

- Copy of your valid passport;

- Diploma and Mark Sheets to validate your academic qualifications;

- Work Statements that verify your previous work experience;

- Police clearance certificate, not older than 3 months;

- Passport-type picture (dimensions: 3.5cm x 4.5cm);

- English or German proficiency certificate, not older than 5 months.

- You can score additional points by proving language skills at B2 level in Spanish, French, Bosnian/Serbian/Croatian

What documents are required for living and working in Austria with European citizenship?

EU citizens are allowed to work in Austria for up to three months without obtaining a specific permit. However, for extended stays, they must fulfill certain criteria. This includes being either employed or self-employed in Austria, or having adequate financial resources and comprehensive health insurance coverage for themselves and their dependents. The required documents for this process include a valid identity document or passport, an employment contract or evidence of self-employment, documentation proving adequate financial means (such as bank statements) and comprehensive health insurance coverage. Additionally, proof of accommodation, such as a rental agreement, is necessary.

It's important to note that if the documents were not issued in German or English, they must be translated and apostilled by sworn and licensed translators to meet the necessary legal requirements.

How do I obtain a residence permit in Austria as the spouse of an EU citizen?

Spouses of EU citizens in Austria can enroll in education, work, and receive a salary without distinctions. To apply for a spouse's residence card, one must be married or in a recognized stable union with a European citizen. The application should be submitted within four months of arrival, with an early start recommended. Apply in person at the local immigration authority, which may be Bezirkshauptmannschaft, Magistrat, or MA35 in Vienna. Alongside completing a form, available from the authority or online, the process costs €56.

Required documents include a valid ID or passport, recent photo, Anmeldebescheinigung and Meldezettel of the EU citizen, and documentary proof of marriage or civil union. The 'Aufenthaltskarte' has a cost of €70. If documents are not in German or English, translation and apostille by sworn and licensed translators are necessary. After five years of legal and uninterrupted residence, the cardholder can request a permanent residence card.

What is the Meldezettel registration and how do I get it?

The Meldezettel serves as proof of residence and is often required for various official matters, such as opening a bank account, obtaining a driver's license, or applying for certain permits. It's important to carry the Meldezettel with you, especially when dealing with official transactions in Austria.

You must register with your municipality in Austria within three working days of your arrival in the country. To do this, you must go to the Magistrat (municipal authority) or the Gemeindeamt (municipal office) in your town carrying the following documents:

- ID document

- Birth certificate

- Registration form (Meldezettel). This document must be signed by both the landlord and the tenant.

You must report any change of address to the Magistrat/Gemeindeamt within three working days, and any change of other data within one month. You must keep your registration confirmation (Meldebestätigung) safe, as you will need it in different situations, such as to obtain or renew your residence permit. Before leaving Austria for good, you must cancel your registration.

How can I bring my family to Austria?

Family members planning to reside or settle in Austria for over six months must obtain a residence title aligned with their purpose of stay. Those related to Red-White-Red Card and EU Blue Card holders can promptly apply for a Red-White-Red Card Plus. Eligible family members include spouses, registered partners, and minor unmarried children (including adopted or stepchildren up to the age of 18).

We know the importance of family and the challenges that come with moving to a new country. That's why You Work Life! offers Specialized Family Immigration Consulting, a comprehensive solution that simplifies the complex visa application and approval process for family members. With our service, we handle all aspects of the visa application process, allowing you to focus on what really matters - your career and your family.

What are the transportation options to get to Austria?

- Flights: Flying into Austria is a common and convenient option. Major international airports include Vienna International Airport (VIE), Salzburg Airport (SZG), and Innsbruck Airport (INN). Check for direct flights or consider connecting flights based on your location.

- International Trains: Depending on your starting location, you may take international trains to Austria. EuroCity (EC) and Railjet (RJ) trains connect major European cities to Austrian cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck.

- Long-Distance Buses: Several long-distance bus companies operate services to Austria from neighboring countries. This is a budget-friendly option, although travel times may be longer compared to trains or flights.

- Driving: If you're in a neighboring European country, driving to Austria is an option. The road network is well-maintained, and scenic routes can make the journey enjoyable. Check for any tolls and road regulations.

How can I gain access to Austria's health system?

Once you have registered to work in Austria with the AMS (Austrian employment agency), you will already be covered by national insurance and will receive your social security number, and with this number you can go to hospital and medical appointments. However, as soon as possible you should get the e-card, an electronic card linked to Austria's social insurance systems, which includes health, accident, pension and unemployment insurance, thus giving you more flexibility.

What is the e-card and how can I get it?

The e-card is your personal key to Austria's healthcare system. The e-card can be used by dentists, specialists or general practitioners, in establishments belonging to social security institutions and in most hospitals in Austria. Patients must show their e-cards whenever they visit a doctor or hospital. The e-card allows access to medical treatment without the need for paper documents. By reading the e-card, the doctor checks via the information network whether a person is insured and which health insurance institution should pay for medical treatment.

The e-card is issued free of charge, but if you are not an Austrian citizen, you must first go to a registration authority (Registrierungsstellen) to have your photo taken for the e-card. Click here for a list of locations where you can do this. Choose one and make an appointment.

You must bring a recent passport photo, your Austrian national insurance number and a valid, original travel document with you. After registering your photo, you can apply for the e-card by clicking here. Currently, it can take up to four weeks for it to be issued, from the time you apply until it is sent.

How can I obtain a driver’s license in Austria?

If you are planning to drive in Austria, it is important to know the requirements for obtaining a valid driving permit in the country. There are two ways to do this: obtain an international driver's license in your country or obtain a local driving permit in Austria. However, it's important to remember that the international license is not a driving permit in itself. It is a translation of your country driver's license and must be presented together with your national license when driving in Austria. If you intend to stay in Austria for a longer period of time or do not have a valid driver's license issued by your country, you will need to obtain a local driver's license. It is important to remember that if you are resident in Austria, you have six months to exchange your foreign driver's license for a local one. In addition, traffic legislation in Austria is strict and fines for traffic violations can be very high.

How can I acquire a SIM card in Austria?

Getting an Austrian mobile plan as an expat is easy. You can sign up online or at a local store, but note that some store staff may not speak English. For a contract, you'll need proof of identity, an Austrian address, and local bank details. Consider opening an Austrian bank account for convenience.

If you prefer flexibility, go for a prepaid SIM card, though they can be pricier. Purchase SIM cards from various retailers or order online, but remember to register it in Austria using your ID. Top-ups are available online or in-store in €5 or €10 denominations. Some operators also offer pay-as-you-go tariffs, providing flexibility without a contract for expats.