In the third quarter of 2023, Austria witnessed a substantial 202,300 job vacancies, underscoring the nation’s dependence on foreign workers, a trend prevalent across Western European countries grappling with an aging population. The current minimum wage in Austria stands at €1,500 per month, providing a benchmark for potential employees.
While the reported job vacancies for this quarter marked a 5.5% decrease from the previous quarter, the figures remained notably high, prompting Tobias Thomas, the general director of Statistics Austria, to highlight the persistent shortage of labor. The job vacancy rate of 4.6% further emphasizes the demand for skilled workers across various sectors.
Out of the total job vacancies, the service sector accounted for 120,100, manufacturing for 46,200, and the public sector for 36,000. To facilitate recruitment, the Public Employment Service (AMS) reported 120,500 vacancies during the same period.
With an estimated working-age population of around six million out of a total of 9.1 million, Austria faces demographic challenges, including an aging population and a birth deficit for the third consecutive year. As a result, the country heavily relies on foreign workers to sustain its economy.
Aspiring foreign workers seeking opportunities in Austria can benefit from the nation’s labor shortage. EURES identifies professions in high demand, including unskilled construction workers, electrical fitters, metalworkers, chefs, and warehouse workers. Recently, there has been a notable shortage of hairdressers in specific regions.
These professions not only address the country’s labor needs but also offer competitive salaries. According to the Economic Research Institute (ERI), average pay for construction workers, bricklayers, fitters, pipefitters, electricians, restaurant chefs, kitchen helpers, waiters, and cleaners in Austria reflects the country’s commitment to remunerate skilled labor adequately.
For instance, construction workers earn an average of €46,828 per year, and pipefitters command an average of €55,539 annually. Even the minimum wage in Austria, set at €1,500 per month, signifies a baseline that exceeds many other European nations.
Do You Need A Visa to Work in Austria?
To work in Austria, non-Austrian citizens must apply for a D Visa, a long-term visa, unless they are residents from within the EU and EFA. Highly skilled workers from other countries can obtain a Red-White-Red card, providing a work and residence permit for up to two years.
However, it’s essential to note that individuals on a Schengen Visa are ineligible to work in Austria. Foreign nationals should apply for a work visa from their country of residence to be eligible for employment.
How Much Does it Cost to Live in Austria?
While Austria offers better wages and living conditions, it comes with a higher cost of living. Numbeo ranks Austria as the 25th most expensive country globally, with monthly living expenses varying based on location and household size. As the nation opens its doors to foreign workers, it offers a unique blend of professional opportunities and a quality lifestyle, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a new work experience in Europe.
