Working in Austria: Your Moving Checklist
Well-prepared for your hospitality job in Austria
Have you received a job offer in Austria? Congratulations! To make sure your move to Austria goes smoothly, this checklist covers all the important documents, deadlines, and administrative procedures for EU citizens.
What documents do you need to move to Austria?
To get started, you'll need, above all, a form of identification, proof of insurance, and your employment documents. Pack these documents so they're within easy reach:
- Passport or ID card
- Birth certificate, just in case
- European Health Insurance Card for the first few days
- Transcripts, diplomas, and employment references, translated if necessary
- Current resume
- Driver’s license and vehicle registration if you’re coming by car
Tip: Many businesses in the hotel and restaurant industry offer employee housing. If your housing isn't available yet, book a guesthouse for your first few nights.
What do you need to do after arriving in Austria?
After you arrive, there are a few administrative procedures you'll need to complete. The table shows you what to do, by when, and where:
| Step | Deadline | Where do you take care of this? |
|---|---|---|
| Register with your new employer | on your agreed-upon first day of work | At your workplace |
| Register your residence (registration form) | within 3 days of moving in | Municipal registration office or city hall |
| Check your social security registration | Before starting work | Your employer will register you; request confirmation |
| Apply for a registration certificate | within 4 months of arrival | District Administration Office or City Hall |
| Open a bank account | No deadline, but it’s practical | Bank of your choice |
| Re-register your car | Within 1 month of entering the country by car | Vehicle Registration Office |
Good to know: If you're from a non-EU country, you'll generally need a residence and work permit. You can find reliable information on the Republic of Austria's official immigration portal.
In which federal state would you like to work?
Jobs in the hospitality and restaurant industry are available throughout Austria. Tyrol, Salzburg, and Vorarlberg are popular destinations during the winter season. Carinthia attracts visitors in the summer with its lakes, while Vienna draws guests year-round with its city hotels.
You can read about the advantages each region offers in the comparison “Gastrojob in Austria: East and West.” Our job profiles will help you figure out which area is right for you—whether it’s the kitchen, front desk, or housekeeping.
Ready for your job in Austria?
With this checklist, you'll be well-prepared for your move. Still looking for the right job? On HOGAST Job, you'll find job openings in the hospitality and restaurant industry throughout Austria.
With your applicant profile, you can apply for jobs quickly and easily. The job alert automatically notifies you of new, relevant job openings. Good luck with your new start in Austria!
FAQs About Working in Austria
No. As an EU citizen, you are allowed to work in Austria without a work permit. If you stay longer than three months, you must apply for a registration certificate within four months of your arrival.
You must register your residence with the registration office within three days of moving in.
If your primary residence is in Austria, you may use your car with foreign license plates for one month. After that, you must register it in Austria.
