Living in Austria
All the tips, essential information and practical advice you need for living in Austria.
How can your employment contract end in Austria?
Whether a probationary period is unsuccessful or you're taking time out to start a family, there are very specific terms for ending a work contract in Austria. These are the key ones to know and how they can affect your rights.
Can I get a mortgage in Austria as a foreigner?
There's no law stating that foreigners can’t get a mortgage in Austria, however, there are some restrictions you need to know about.
EXPLAINED: Who is eligible for a shorter wait for Austrian citizenship?
In standard cases, foreigners have to be resident in Austria for ten years before they’re eligible for citizenship – one of the longest waits around. But some people could qualify sooner.
GUIDE: How much does it cost to live in Salzburg?
Salzburg may be much smaller than Vienna, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's any cheaper. We look at what housing, transport, food, utilities and childcare can cost in the city in 2026.
Who to call and what to say in an emergency in Austria
Just in case you have an emergency in Austria, here are the numbers to call and some of the phrases you might need to use.
Six unique traditions that Austrians love to love
Austrians truly love their traditions. From the Alpine cow parades to Easter egg-cracking traditions, here are some of the favourites.
Four things you should know before registering your child in a kindergarten in Vienna
Moving to a new country can be challenging, but the stress of finding care for a young child can make it even harder. Here are a few tips and things you should know about Viennese kindergartens.
Can I deduct the cost of a German language course in my Austrian tax return?
If German isn't your mother tongue, you might have spent some time in a German class in Austria. But can those expenses be deducted from your taxes?
Reader question: Do I have to repaint the walls when I leave a rental in Austria?
The short answer is usually no, but this is an issue that frequently comes up for tenants in Austria. We explain the laws and rights that apply.
What documents should I get after obtaining Austrian citizenship?
Austrian citizens aren't legally required to be in possession of ID in Austria. But there's plenty of good reasons to apply for your passport if you do take citizenship.
Should self-employed people in Austria pay the minimum or full SVS contribution?
As a self-employed worker in Austria, one of the biggest costs you need to plan for is your social insurance.
Will my Austrian health insurance cover medical costs abroad?
If you plan on travelling, you might wonder if you can use your Austrian e-card or public health insurance abroad. Here's what you need to know.
Renting in Austria: How much can the landlord ask for as a deposit?
The rental deposit, or die Kaution, is one of the biggest upfront costs when renting in Austria. Here’s how much landlords usually ask for, when a higher amount may be questionable, and how to protect yourself before moving in.
How does divorce affect your residency rights in Austria?
It’s a well-known fact that divorce is stressful but throw in visa complications and it can be even harder to navigate. The Local spoke to a legal expert to find out your rights in Austria.
How easy is it to retire to Austria?
Although Spain or Italy might have beaches and sun, Austria has plenty to offer someone looking for a place to spend their Golden Years. And while it's not the easiest place to retire to, it's still well within reach for many.
Anmeldebescheinigung: How to get Austria's crucial residence document
If you are a citizen of an EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, you have the right to live in Austria. But if you're staying for more than three months, you need to apply for a registration certificate within four months of arrival.
Checklist: What you need to do when you leave Austria for good
Maybe you're returning home, moving for work, or seeking new adventures. Regardless of the reason, if the time comes when you choose to leave Austria, don't forget to tick these last bureaucratic checkboxes.
Everything you need to know about driving in Austria in winter
Austria is known for having long, cold winters, which can impact conditions on the roads. Here’s what you need to know about driving in Austria in the winter. From tips to make your trip smoother to the rules you need to follow.
What happens if the deadline for your Austrian admin is on a weekend or holiday?
Austrian bureaucracy is stressful enough without discovering that your residence card, AMS deadline or official filing date expires on a Sunday. We've asked Austria's main government bodies what happens then.
How to write an invitation letter for visitors to Austria
While anyone coming from the Schengen area will be exempt from any border controls, visitors entering Austria from outside might have to show some documents, including proof of stay. Here's what you need to know.
What tenants in Austria need to know about getting their rent reduced
From construction noise to broken utilities, various issues can allow tenants in Austria to request a rent reduction. Learn the steps to follow and when legal action might be necessary.
What foreigners need to know about the Austrian healthcare system
Austria's healthcare system has a few peculiarities, from different public insurers to private doctors. The Local spoke with two experts and a foreign resident to share the most unusual things immigrants need to know.
'Haushaltsversicherung': How does Austria's home insurance work?
'Haushaltsversicherung' is one of Austria's most popular types of insurance. It is not mandatory, but it is certainly worth evaluating, especially as it comes with many possible add-ons.