Finding a Job in Austria
Updated: June 29 2026| Found helpful by 34 others
As of April 2026, Austria has an unemployment rate of approximately 5%, with strong demand in IT, engineering, healthcare, tourism, and skilled trades. The Austrian job market values formal qualifications and German language skills, though English-only positions exist in Vienna's tech scene and international organizations. The AMS (Arbeitsmarktservice) publishes the official shortage occupation list (Mangelberufsliste) which determines eligibility for the Red-White-Red Card.
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How Does the Austrian Job Market Work?
Austria has a highly regulated labour market with strong worker protections enforced by the Arbeiterkammer (Chamber of Labour). Key features that set the Austrian job market apart:
- Collective bargaining agreements (Kollektivvertrag): Set minimum salaries per industry. Almost all employees in Austria are covered by a KV, which guarantees minimum pay, working conditions, and annual raises.
- 13th and 14th month salary: Standard in Austria. You receive two extra salary payments per year (typically in June and November), which are taxed at a lower rate. See our income tax guide for details.
- 25 vacation days minimum. By law, all employees receive at least 5 weeks (25 working days) of paid vacation per year, plus 13 public holidays.
- Formal qualifications (Ausbildung): Austrian employers place high value on formal education and professional certifications. Foreign qualifications may need to be officially recognized (Nostrifizierung).
- Meldezettel + work permit required. You need a Meldezettel (registration certificate) and a valid work permit before starting employment.
What Are the Best Industries in Austria?
| Industry | Demand Level | German Required? | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| IT / Software | High | Not always | EUR 45,000 – 75,000 |
| Engineering | High | Usually | EUR 40,000 – 65,000 |
| Healthcare / Nursing | Very High | Yes | EUR 35,000 – 55,000 |
| Tourism / Hospitality | High | Yes for front-facing | EUR 25,000 – 40,000 |
| Finance | Medium | Usually | EUR 45,000 – 70,000 |
| Teaching / Education | Medium | Depends | EUR 30,000 – 50,000 |
| Skilled Trades | Very High | Yes | EUR 30,000 – 50,000 |
Salary ranges are gross annual figures as of April 2026, based on Kollektivvertrag minimums and market data. Actual salaries vary by experience, location, and company size.
Demand varies by industry. Here is an overview of the most promising sectors, including whether German is typically required and expected salary ranges.
What Documents Do You Need to Work in Austria?
The documents you need depend on your nationality:
- EU/EEA citizens: You have the right to work freely in Austria. You just need a Meldezettel (registration certificate). See our EU citizens guide for details.
- Non-EU citizens: You need a Red-White-Red Card or other valid work permit before you can start working. Your employer must typically be involved in the application process.
Regardless of nationality, all employees in Austria need:
- Sozialversicherungsnummer (SV-Nummer): Your social insurance number, assigned automatically when your employer registers you.
- Austrian bank account: Required for salary payments. See our bank account guide.
- FinanzOnline registration: Austria's online tax portal. You will need this for your annual tax return. See our income tax guide.
Explore Job Search Topics
Related Guides
Work Visa (RWR Card)
How to get a Red-White-Red Card for working in Austria
Income Tax in Austria
Tax brackets, 13th/14th salary, and net salary calculations
Vienna Registration Guide
You need a Meldezettel before you can start working
Learning German
German skills significantly improve your job prospects
Open a Bank Account
You need an Austrian bank account for salary payments