Finding a job is tough? Finding a job in a foreign country is even tougher, especially when that country is known for its complex bureaucracy, which unfortunately is the case in Austria. Do not despair, with the right guidelines going through the labyrinths of bureaucracy won’t be a problem.
It is important to be aware, that there are a lot of different regulations depending on the applicant’s country of origin and other social factors. With that thought in mind it is recommended to find out, which regulation fits to your special case before taking any steps. Austria’s bureaucracy can be quite frustrating, preparing in advance will save you a lot of time and another important lesson is to be patient, because sometimes bureaucracy simply takes its time.
With its high living standards Austria also has a fairly high tax system, which is a complex issue by itself. But in reward state and city provide a well-working system of social security and other financial benefits.

Swiss Citizens

Citizens from the EEA area (EU countries + Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein) and Switzerland work on the same conditions as Austrian citizens. They do not require special permits to work in Austria. Transition periods apply to Croatian citizens. When intending seeking employment on the Austrian labour market employers must apply to the AMS for an employment permit
(Beschäftigungsbewilligung) except if eligible for receiving a freedom of movement confirmation (Freizügigkeitsbestätigung). Specific labour market access regulations are valid for Croatians with key qualifications as well as Croatian seasonal workers.

Third-country nationals

For non EU citizens to take up legal gainful employment in Austria can be very difficult. A valid certificate of residence, like a settlement permit (Niederlassungsbewilligung) or a temporary residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) is required.

Work permits are usually granted only to persons qualified to fill posts in specialized fields for which Austrian nationals or other EU-nationals or EEA citizens are not available. Spouses, dependents and unmarried partners are not permitted to work as a derivative status of the employee. Spouses, dependents and unmarried partners must obtain their own work permit. (Family members of Austrian or EEA citizens don’t need a work permit). Residence and employment legislation and requirements are regulated separately.

There are four kinds of work permits in Austria:

• Employment permit (Beschäftigungsbewilligung)
• Work permit (Arbeitserlaubnis)
• Certificate of exemption (Befreiungsschein)
• Freedom of movement (Freizügigkeitsbestätigung)

The criteria-led immigration system of the “Red-White-Red Card“ allows qualified workers from third countries and their family members to permanently immigrate to Austria.