The Expat Guide You Can Trust
Your complete guide to living in Austria
Navigating Austrian bureaucracy, banking, insurance, and daily life doesn't have to be overwhelming. We break it all down in plain English so you can focus on enjoying your new home.
#1
Quality of Life
Mercer ranking, Vienna
14
Public Holidays
Plus 25 vacation days
99.9%
Healthcare
Universal public system
#3
Safest Country
Global Peace Index
Everything you need to know
From your first visa application to filing your annual tax return, we cover every step of expat life in Austria.
Visa & Immigration
Red-White-Red Card, EU Blue Card, residence permits, and registration requirements for Austria.
Banking & Finance
Opening a bank account, IBAN transfers, Austrian banking fees, and the best banks for expats.
Insurance
Health insurance (e-card), social insurance, private coverage, and the Austrian healthcare system.
Taxes
Income tax brackets, Arbeitnehmerveranlagung, tax residency, and deductions available in Austria.
Living in Austria
Meldezettel registration, housing, transport, schooling, and navigating Austrian bureaucracy.
Communication
Mobile plans, internet providers, Handysignatur/ID Austria, and staying connected.
Energy
Electricity, gas, and heating providers. How to set up utilities and switch for the best rates.
Jobs
Job search platforms, Austrian CV tips, salary expectations, and the best industries for expats.
Transport
Public transit passes, trains, U-Bahn, cycling, and the KlimaTicket for unlimited nationwide travel.
Tourism
Top attractions, Alpine skiing, museums, day trips, and insider tips for exploring Austria.
Most read
Popular guides
The most-read articles by expats moving to or already living in Austria.
How to Get the Red-White-Red Card
Step-by-step guide to Austria's points-based work permit for qualified third-country nationals.
Read guideOpening a Bank Account in Austria
Which documents you need, best banks for English speakers, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Read guideUnderstanding the Austrian Tax System
Income tax brackets from 0% to 55%, how Lohnsteuer works, and filing your annual return.
Read guideFinding Housing in Austria
How to find apartments, renting process, Kaution, and registering your address (Meldezettel).
Read guideHealth Insurance for Expats in Austria
How the ÖGK system works, getting your e-card, and when you might need private insurance.
Read guideBest SIM Cards in Austria
Comparing A1, Magenta, Drei, and budget MVNOs for the best coverage and value.
Read guideFree tools
Calculators to plan your move
Salary Tax Calculator
Calculate your net salary after Austrian income tax, social insurance, and other deductions
Cost of Living Estimator
Estimate your monthly expenses in Vienna, Graz, Salzburg, Linz, and other Austrian cities
Visa Eligibility Checker
Find out which Austrian residence permit or visa category fits your situation
Free download
Get your city arrival kit
Printable 30-day checklist, German phrases for bureaucracy, neighborhood comparison map, and cost of living breakdown. Choose your city.
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