Austria

Vienna, the capital, is the most densely populated region in Austria, with 4,657 residents per square kilometre, while Carinthia is the least densely populated, with 59.2 inhabitants per square kilometre. Other famous cities include Graz, Linz, Salzburg and Innsbruck.

The national flag of Austria is a proud symbol steeped in rich history and symbolism. Its striking design features three horizontal stripes of equal width—red on the top and bottom, with a white stripe in the middle. This combination of colours reflects Austria's noble traditions of bravery, peace and unity.

Austria experiences a typical Central European climate with warm summers, cold winters and sufficient rainfall. Additionally, the country can be divided into two distinct climatic regions:

• In the east, there is a Pannonian climate with warm to hot summers, lower rainfall and cold winters.

• The central Alpine region exhibits an Alpine climate, characterised by more summer rainfall compared to the east and long winters with heavy snowfall.

Austria follows the Central European Time (CET) zone. Daylight Saving Time in 2023 starts from 26th March at 2 am CET and ends on 29th October at 3 am CET. The clock change occurs uniformly on Saturday night to Sunday morning at 2 am (1 am GMT).

To draw a comparison, New Delhi (IST) is 4 hours 30 minutes ahead of Vienna. So, if it's 10:30 am in Vienna (CET), it will be 3:00 pm in New Delhi (IST).

German is Austria's official language and essential for engaging in the country's work, economy and social activities. In certain regions, Croatian, Slovenian and Hungarian are also recognised as official languages for autonomous population groups. Most schools teach English as the primary foreign language.

Austrian culture is deeply influenced by its centuries-old Catholic tradition, yet daily life and laws are strictly secular. Social unity and tolerance hold great importance in Austrian society.

Religious freedom is upheld in Austria. According to a census in 2001, the majority of Austrians identify as Roman Catholic (about three-quarters). This is followed by people without religious affiliation, Protestants, Muslims and members of the Christian Orthodox faith.

The Austrian diet is rich in calories and dairy, with many popular dishes featuring meats, cheeses, salt and saturated fats. Key ingredients found in Austrian kitchens and used in famous dishes include pork, chicken, goose, fish, vegetables, fruits, cheese and dairy products. Here are the popular dishes consumed in Austria:

Vegan: Erdäpfelgulasch, Kürbiscremesuppe, Marillenknödel, Gebackener Blumenkohl, Topfenstrudel, etc.

Vegetarian: Kaspressknödel, Gemüsestrudel, Kaiserschmarrn, etc.

Non-Vegetarian: Schweinsbraten, Backhendl, Forelle Müllerin, etc.

The currency of Austria is the Euro (€). The exchange rate of the Euro to the Indian Rupee (INR) is 89.35 as of June 2024.

Austria boasts one of the EU's most advanced transport networks, with a dense bus and rail system covering the country. Vienna, the capital, particularly excels in public transport infrastructure.

Motorways:

Motorway use in Austria requires a toll vignette, available for 10 days, two months or a year. Purchase at post offices, tobacconists (Trafik), border posts or service areas. Visit ASFINAG for details.

Driving:

• Driving on Austria’s highways (Autobahnen) necessitates affixing a toll vignette to your windshield, purchasable online, at service stations or tobacconists.

• Drivers must keep the rescue lane clear on motorways.

• In case of accidents, dial 112 for emergency services, wear warning vests, provide first aid and fill out an accident report. Non-compliance can lead to legal repercussions.

Seat Belts and Child Safety:

• Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants in Austrian vehicles.

• Children under 14 or under 135 cm tall must use a car seat.

Public Transport:

• Major towns offer various public transport deals, with a single ticket costing around €2.20-€2.60.

• Tickets are available to purchase from machines, drivers or tobacconists. Rural areas may require purchasing only from drivers.

• Buses and trains are key in rural areas, with discounts for children, pensioners and students.

Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB):

• Tickets available at stations, travel agents, machines (regional trains) and conductors (intercity trains with a €3.00 service charge).

• Explore routes and services at ÖBB.

Air Travel:

• Austria has a network of national and regional airports, centred around Vienna International Airport.

• Check airfares and services at Austrian airports.

The Austrian economy rebounded strongly with a GDP of €447.22 billion in 2021, marking a 4.5% increase from the pandemic-hit 2020. GDP per capita reached €45,043. The economic landscape is predominantly shaped by small and medium enterprises. Key industries include food processing, machinery and steel manufacturing, chemicals and vehicles, electronics and wood and paper production.

The Republic of India and the Republic of Austria share a warm and longstanding relationship dating back to 1949, marking over 70 years of bilateral ties celebrated in 2019. This relationship is rooted in shared cultural, historical and economic interests. Over the decades, the two nations have collaborated extensively in trade, investment, science and technology as well as cultural and tourism exchanges.

The distance between Delhi and Vienna is around 5,592 kilometres (3,475 miles) by air. This is the straight-line distance or direct flight distance between the cities.

Austria offers attractive job prospects and competitive wages for Indians looking to work overseas. However, if you're considering these opportunities, there are important factors you should be aware of.

a. Costs of working in Austria

• Economic costs of migration include fees you pay for recruitment, cost of obtaining passport, visa, emigration clearance, insurance, airfare (should be ideally covered by your employer) and other costs associated with migrating from India to Austria.

• Migration also has social costs which include leaving behind elderly parents, spouse and children.

• Health costs such as physical and mental discomfort often accompany migration. These can take forms of prolonged physical problems and mental health issues like anxiety and depression, since you are away from your loved ones.

b. Benefits of working in Austria

• Economic benefits include higher wages and higher currency exchange value resulting in good prospects.

• Migration provides social benefits such as experiencing a different culture and its cuisine, engaging and learning from individuals coming from various countries and cultures as well as acquiring skills & technological expertise of the destination country.

• Overseas work is an experience of a lifetime and can provide skills that you can use throughout your life.

c. Financial considerations of moving to Austria

Now that you've compared migration costs and benefits, consider these key financial aspects for your journey:

• Debt: Avoid taking on debt unless necessary. Have a repayment plan in place to ensure it doesn't hinder your goals.

• Currency and Exchange Rates: Understand the Euro to Indian Rupee exchange rate and how to convert currencies.

• Cost of Living: Living in Austria is more expensive than in India. Research costs for essentials like rent, food, transport and entertainment, even if some expenses are covered by your employer.

• Insurance: Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage (e.g., Parvas Bhartiya Bima Yojana) for health and unforeseen circumstances.

• Managing Money: Budget monthly expenses, prioritise savings and consider investments like fixed deposits or mutual funds for financial growth.

• Emergency Fund: Build an emergency fund equivalent to at least three months' living expenses to cover unexpected costs.

Indian workers seeking employment in Austria can explore job opportunities through National Skill Development Corporation International at NSDC International Job Opportunities. Indian Recruitment Agencies (IRAs) act as intermediaries between workers and employers in Austria, assisting with job searches, travel documents and employment terms.

Indian workers can also apply for a Job-Seeker Visa, allowing them to search for jobs in Austria for up to six months without a job offer.

Indian Recruitment Agencies (IRAs) are registered entities under the Protector General of Emigrants (PGE) that facilitate job placements abroad for Indian citizens legally. To avoid scams, ensure you only engage with licensed agencies. The list of registered IRAs is available on the eMigrate portal. Unlicensed agencies can also be found on the same portal. Always verify the status of an agency with the PGE or visit the eMigrate portal for confirmation.

How to identify legitimate IRAs:

• Look for a prominently displayed Registration Certificate (RC) issued by the PGE.

• The agency should have a visible signboard with their name, registration number and the year of registration.

• They must operate from premises of at least 50 square metres with essential facilities like waiting halls and interview rooms.

• Ensure they conduct skill testing for the trades they recruit for.

• Fees charged should not exceed wages for 45 days under the employment contract, up to a maximum of Rs. 30,000.

Responsibilities of IRAs include:

• Providing employment details and contract conditions upfront.

• Ensuring proper reception by the employer abroad.

• Monitoring employment contract terms and timely renewal of necessary documents.

• Facilitating dispute resolution and issuing receipts for payments made.

• Advertising jobs truthfully without misrepresentation.

For more details, visit https://www.mea.gov.in/ras.htm.

Complaint against RA

There are instances where you may be taken undue advantage of, in such cases, consider filing a complaint. Complaints of overcharging or cheating against RA can be lodged with:

Documents required to work in Austria

Austria's economy is experiencing a revival, attracting foreign investments and offering excellent employment prospects alongside a high quality of life. To work in Austria, you'll need:

a) Work Visa: Allows entry into Austria for a specific purpose, including work. It does not grant permission to start working.

b) Work Permit: Enables longer-term residence in Austria (e.g., six months to one year) for employment purposes. It does not grant entry into the country.

c) Residence Permit: Confirms your right to live in Austria for an extended period.

Types of permits in Austria

a) The Red-White-Red Card

Austria’s Red-White-Red Card (“Rot-Weiß-Rot – Karte”) offers a residence permit to you, if you would like to work as a skilled employee in Austria and want to stay in Austria on a permanent basis. The key features of this permit include:

• Combined residence and work permit

• Designed for long-term employment in Austria

• Bound to one specific employer

• Validity of up to 2 years

• Family immigration is possible

• Binding job offer is a prerequisite

There is not only one Red-White-Red Card but a total of seven subcategories, the relevant subcategories have been discussed below:

1. The Red-White-Red Card for Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations

If you have a job offer and training in a shortage occupation, you can expedite your immigration to Austria. Each year, the Federal Republic of Austria identifies shortage occupations — roles with fewer than 1.5 job seekers per vacancy annually. The Skilled Workers Ordinance, issued by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy, recorded a historic high in 2023 for these shortages. They are categorized into nationwide (98 occupations, available at https://www.workinaustria.com/en/residence-employment/shortage-occupations/nationwide/) and regional (56 occupations, available at https://www.workinaustria.com/en/residence-employment/shortage-occupations/nationwide/#h-regional-shortage-occupations-9605).

If you fall into one of these groups, you can immigrate more swiftly as no labour market check is required. To obtain the Red-White-Red Card, you must achieve the required points in the points system outlined by law (also detailed at https://www.workinaustria.com/en/residence-employment/point-scheme/#c4682).

In this point scheme you have to score at least 55 points. It is not necessary to obtain points in every category. It suffices if you achieve the minimum points required.

Required documents

In order to receive a Red-White-Red Card for Skilled Workers in Shortage Occupations, you will require to submit the following documents:

• Application form (available at https://api.workinaustria.com/fileadmin/user_upload/MediaLibrary_ABAWORKINAUSTRIA/Downloads/AufenthaltBeschaeftigung/Application_form_2023_EN.pdf )

• Valid Passport

• Passport photo fulfilling EU criteria (not older than six months)

• Qualification-related documents:

• Updated curriculum vitae (optional)

• Proof of qualifications or education (university diploma, etc.)

• Proof of professional experience (recommendations/references, etc.)

• Language certificates if necessary

Employer documents:

• Employer’s Declaration (“Arbeitgebererklärung”)

• Detailed job description (either as a separate document or in the Employer's Declaration)

• Information on the skilled worker’s classification according to the applicable collective bargaining agreement (details may be included in the Employer’s Declaration.)

• Police Clearance Certificate (“Strafregisterbescheinigung”), not older than 3 months.

• Fees: €160 (If you have to show additional personal documents or need a Visa D, the fee may actually be higher than € 160).

For more information, you may visit the link: https://www.workinaustria.com/en/residence-employment/red-white-red-card/#h-choose-one-category-of-the-red-white-red-card-and-learn-more-about-it-9417

2. Red-White-Red Card for Other Key Workers

If you've secured a job offer in Austria for a position that doesn't fall under any shortage occupation or if you have relevant work experience but lack the required education for a specific shortage occupation, you may apply for this card. This category of the Red-White-Red Card requires a minimum gross salary of €2,925 per month (2023).

To qualify for this category of the Red-White-Red Card, applicants must achieve a satisfactory number of points within the legally prescribed points system.

Point Scheme

In this point scheme you have score at least 55 points. It is not necessary to obtain points in every category. It suffices if achieve the minimum points required.

For more information, please visit https://www.workinaustria.com/en/residence-employment/red-white-red-card/#pane-8610&[c8606]-h-red-white-red-card-for-other-key-workers-15173

3. Red-White-Red Card for Very Highly Qualified Workers

If you have a special qualification, you can apply for this card. As a rule, these skilled employees can immigrate to Austria more quickly than other skilled workers. This is particularly attributable to the fact that no labour market check is carried out.

In order to receive this category of the Red-White-Red Card, you have to attain a sufficient number of points in the legally stipulated points system. There are several categories of criteria in which you can collect points.

Point Scheme

As a rule, you generally have to achieve at least 70 points. It is not necessary to obtain points in every category. It suffices if you achieve the minimum of 70 points.

For more information, please visit: https://www.workinaustria.com/en/residence-employment/red-white-red-card/#pane-8611&[c8606]-h-red-white-red-card-for-very-highly-qualified-workers-15248

Other subcategories of the Red-White-Red Card include:

• Red-White-Red Card for Graduates of Austrian Universities (https://www.workinaustria.com/en/residence-employment/red-white-red-card/#pane-8609&[c8606]-h-red-white-red-card-for-graduates-of-austrian-universities-9467 )

• Red-White-Red Card for Regular Seasonal Workers (https://www.workinaustria.com/en/residence-employment/red-white-red-card/#pane-8612&[c8606]-h-red-white-red-card-for-regular-seasonal-workers-9537 )

• Red-White-Red Card for Self-Employed Key Workers (https://www.workinaustria.com/en/residence-employment/red-white-red-card/#pane-8613&[c8606]-h-red-white-red-card-for-self-employed-key-workers-11091)

• Red-White-Red Card for Start-Up Founders (https://www.workinaustria.com/en/residence-employment/red-white-red-card/#pane-8614&[c8606]-h-red-white-red-card-for-start-up-founders-11092 )

b) red-white-red card plus

The Red-White-Red Card Plus (“Rot-Weiß-Rot – Karte Plus”) is a residence permit that facilitates the long-term stay of skilled workers and their families in Austria. The key features of the Red-White-Red Card Plus are:

• It offers unrestricted access to the Austrian labour market. This means that you can work both as a salaried employee or be self-employed.

• You are not bound to a specific employer.

• The Red-White-Red Card Plus is relevant for various target groups and is valid for a period of up to 3 years depending on the specific target group such as family members of skilled workers, extension of residence permits, etc.

For more information, please visit: https://www.workinaustria.com/en/residence-employment/red-white-red-card-plus/#h-red-white-red-card-plus-1253

c) eu blue card

Valid for 24 months, the EU Blue Card is issued to you if you meet very specific criteria, including employment tied to your education, the level of your salary and authorities determining there is no one else qualified for the job. The key features of this card are:

• Combined residence and work permit

• Designed for long-term employment in Austria

• Bound to one specific employer

• Validity of up to 2 years

• Family immigration is possible

• Prerequisites for this card are:

• Binding job offers

• Completed a university programme lasting at least 3 years which matches your job offer

• Have gained at least 3 years of relevant job experience within the last 7 years prior to application, comparable to an academic level, if you apply for a job in the IT industry.

• Your employer in Austria pays you a gross annual salary of at least €45.595 in the year 2023. This minimum salary is legally stipulated.

Documents for the EU Blue Card

In any case, you will have to submit the following documents in order to receive an EU Blue Card:

• Application form (available at https://api.workinaustria.com/fileadmin/user_upload/MediaLibrary_ABAWORKINAUSTRIA/Downloads/AufenthaltBeschaeftigung/Application_form_2023_EN.pdf)

• Passport

• Passport photo fulfilling EU criteria (not older than six months)

• Qualification-related documents:

• Updated curriculum vitae

• Proof of qualifications or education (university diploma, etc.) or proof of sufficient relevant job experience in case of IT professionals.

• Proof of successfully concluded studies or proof of sufficient relevant job experience in the case of IT professionals.

Employer documents:

• Employer’s Declaration (“Arbeitgebererklärung”)

• Detailed job description (either as a separate document or in the Employer's Declaration)

• Information on the skilled worker’s classification according to the applicable collective bargaining agreement (details may be included in the Employer’s Declaration.)

• Police Clearance Certificate (“Strafregisterbescheinigung”), not older than 3 months.

• Fees: €160 (If you have to show additional personal documents or if you need a Visa D, the fee may actually be higher than €160).

For more information, please visit: https://www.workinaustria.com/en/residence-employment/eu-blue-card/#h-eu-blue-card-1254

d) long-term resident eu permit

After a five-year, uninterrupted stay in Austria, you can apply for the residence permit “Long-Term Resident EU permit” (“Daueraufenthalt EU”). This residence permit offers unrestricted access to the Austrian labour market. This means you can work both as a salaried employee and on a self-employed basis and you are not bound to an employer.

In addition to residing in Austria for 5 years, the basic requirement for this residence permit is to fulfil Module 2 of the Integration Agreement (“Integrationsvereinbarung”). For more information on Integration Agreement, please visit:

https://www.migration.gv.at/en/living-and-working-in-austria/integration-and-citizenship/integration-agreement/

For example, you can apply for the Long-Term Resident EU permit if you have lived in Austria uninterruptedly for five years and currently have one of the following residence permits:

• Red-White-Red Card Plus (“Rot-Weiß-Rot – Karte Plus”)

• Settlement Permit (“Niederlassungsbewilligung´”)

• Residence Permit – Family Member (“Aufenthaltstitel Familienangehöriger”)

• Settlement Permit – Artist (“Niederlassungsbewilligung – Künstler”)

• Settlement Permit – Special Cases of Gainful Employment (“Niederlassungsbewilligung – Sonderfälle unselbstständiger Erwerbstätigkeit”)

• Settlement Permit – Gainful Employment Excepted (“Niederlassungsbewilligung – ausgenommen Erwerbstätigkeit”)

• Settlement Permit – Relative (“Niederlassungsbewilligung – Angehöriger”)

• Red-White-Red Card (“Rot-Weiß-Rot – Karte”)

• EU Blue Card (“Blaue Karte EU”)

• Settlement Permit – Researcher (“Niederlassungsbewilligung – Forscher”)

For more information, please visit: https://www.workinaustria.com/en/residence-employment/long-term-resident-eu-permit/#h-long-term-resident-eu-permit-1255

Austrian work visas

VFS Global, the official partner of the Embassy of Austria in India, facilitates visa applications for various work purposes:

1. Short Term Work Visa (Visa C)

For stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period, suitable for short-term work. Requires confirmation from the Austrian Labour Market Service (AMS).

Documents Required:

• Completed application form in English or German.

• Passport valid for at least three months after intended departure.

• One ICAO-compliant photograph.

• Proof of round-trip travel bookings and accommodation.

• Comprehensive travel medical insurance.

• Proof of occupation (salary certificates, employment contract, employer's NOC, etc.)

2. Long Term Work Visa (Visa D)

For stays between 91 and 180 days, requiring confirmation from the AMS. Suitable for longer work engagements or obtaining an Austrian residence permit.

Documents Required (in addition to Visa C documents):

• Cover letter detailing the trip purpose and business relations.

• Proof of sufficient funds and health insurance.

• Additional documentation specific to employment status (e.g., GST certificate, student enrolment, etc.)

3. Job Seeker Visa

Issued for six months to highly qualified workers seeking employment in Austria. This can lead to a Red-White-Red Card for Very Highly Qualified Workers upon securing a job.

Documents Required:

• Valid travel document (passport).

• Recent photograph.

• Proof of accommodation and health insurance.

• Evidence of financial means.

• Documentation of qualifications under a points system (e.g., education, work experience, language proficiency).

For more detailed information and application procedures, visit VFS Global Austria.

a. Meeting and Greeting

• Shake hands with everyone present, regardless of gender or age, at business or social meetings.

• In Vienna, men may kiss a woman's hand as a traditional gesture, which should be accepted graciously. However, foreign men should avoid this, as it may not be expected.

b. Names and Titles

• Use last names and appropriate titles until invited to use first names by your Austrian host or colleagues.

• Address individuals as Herr/Frau + professional title + surname initially (e.g., Herr Doctor Bauer, Frau Doctor Bauer). After the first meeting, Herr/Frau + professional title is sufficient.

c. Body Language

• Austrians are reserved and formal; avoid excessive physical contact like kissing or hugging in public.

• Maintaining eye contact is important during conversations.

d. Corporate Culture

• Punctuality is crucial for business meetings; notify promptly if delayed and avoid last-minute cancellations.

• Business discussions often begin with light conversation. Respect for rank and title is significant, as power tends to be concentrated at the top.

• Exercise caution in discussions, as the business community can be politically sensitive. Expect a deliberate pace in business dealings.

e. Dining and Entertainment

• Austrians value punctuality for social events. The host initiates the first toast, with the honoured guest returning the toast later.

• Maintain eye contact during toasts. Use your knife to break apart dumplings rather than cutting them.

• Signal that you've finished eating by placing your knife and fork side by side on your plate.

f. Dress

Austrians take pride in dressing well; avoid wearing shorts in urban areas, especially when shopping.

g. Gifts

• Gifts are opened upon receipt. When visiting someone's home, bring a gift for the hostess such as flowers (in odd numbers), wine, pastries or chocolates.

• Avoid gifts like red roses (unless romantic), red carnations or personal items in business settings.

h. Helpful Hints

• Austrians appreciate being distinguished from Germans; avoid referring to them as such.

• Greet shopkeepers when entering and leaving stores.

• Personal compliments may make Austrians uncomfortable; use discretion.

• Avoid putting hands in pockets while speaking to others

In Austria, accommodation options range from apartments and houses for rent to flat shares, with apartments being most common in cities, from studios to multi-room flats.

There are two lease options: primary leases and sublets. Primary leases under Austrian law typically last three years, so subletting is preferable for shorter stays. Terminating a lease usually requires three months' notice.

Tenants in Austria have strong legal protections, including unlimited master tenancy agreements.

Subletting, where the leaseholder rents to a third party, is legal and a flexible option for early relocation.

To sign a lease, you'll need references, proof of employment, rental history and a security deposit up to three months' rent. You'll also cover utilities like gas, electricity and heating, plus possibly home insurance for belongings.

For more details, visit Living and Working in Austria - Housing.

On average, an Austrian household (average size 2.20 people) spends €3,250 a month or €2,160 per adult.

Price Comparisons Across Europe

Cost of living values are in relation to the EU average = 100; If the price level index of a country is higher than 100 (EU average), the country concerned is ­relatively expensive compared to the EU average, while if the index is lower than 100, the country is relatively cheap compared to the EU average.

Source: The Essential Guide to Living and Working in Austria, Austrian Business Agency (ABA), Vienna 2022.

The Essential Guide for Living and Working in Austria, Austrian Business Agency (ABA), Vienna 2022.

Members of the Indian diaspora in Austria include students, professionals and individuals who have migrated for various reasons such as work or family ties. In larger cities like Vienna, you may find a more significant concentration of the Indian community.

a) Facebook Pages, India in Austria (Embassy on India, Vienna): On this page you can access to the latest information and find useful links. It focusses on ensuring the welfare of Indians residing in Austria & Montenegro as well as provide India-related information and services to the Austrian community.

b) Austro-Indian Association: It is devoted to the fostering of relations in the cultural, economic, social, scientific and technological fields between Austria and India.

c) Vienna International Center (VIC) Indian Club

The Club provide a forum for the social, cultural and intellectual interaction of its members. It intends to promote the personal and professional growth of its members, particularly within the context of changes impacting multicultural organisations and societies in which every member is both a contributor and a beneficiary.

d) Hindu Mandir Association, Vienna (HMA): In 1980, the Bengali Bimal Kundu founded the first Hindu religious society in Austria, for Hindus immigrating from the Indian subcontinent. Since 1998, the "Hindu Religious Society in Austria" is "state-registered confessional community" official representative for all Hindus. The objective of the group is to facilitate and promote socio cultural activities for its members and the welfare of Hindu community in Austria.

1. Financial Management:

• Keep records of payments, leaves taken and reimbursements. Maintain separate records for savings and expenses.

• Deposit your salary in a bank account to protect it from theft, earn interest and facilitate remittances to your family.

2. Budgeting:

Plan for savings, expenses, emergency funds, insurance and family remittances to manage finances effectively.

3. Debt Management:

• Avoid unnecessary debt.

• Use borrowed money only for its intended purpose.

• Make timely repayments and aim to clear debts promptly.

4. Cultural Integration:

Respect Austrian customs and traditions regarding greetings, gift-giving and social etiquette to integrate better into the community.

5. Legal Compliance:

Understand and adhere to Austrian laws, including visa and work permit requirements, to ensure compliance during your stay.

6. Environmental Responsibility:

Participate in Austria's recycling programme by sorting waste properly, contributing to environmental sustainability.

7. Avoid Offences:

• Do not overstay your visa or permit.

• Work only for the employer specified in your work permit.

• Cease work promptly upon permit expiration.

• Avoid unlawful acts of corruption and bribery.

Following these guidelines will help you adjust smoothly to life in Austria.

Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF)

a) An Indian Worker in distress can seek assistance under ICWF from the High Commission of India, Port Louis.

b) Under the ICWF, you can receive initial legal assistance in deserving cases. There are lawyers empaneled by the mission/post to represent Indian nationals in court. You can obtain a list from the Indian Mission/Post when in need.

c) Indian workers who have been cheated by intermediaries in the host countries, runaway domestic workers, those who become victims of accidents, deserted spouses of Indian migrants, undocumented Indian migrant workers in need of emergency assistance or any other overseas Indian citizens who are in distress can seek assistance under the fund.

d) The Indian Community Welfare Fund (lCWF) is aimed at providing the following services on a means tested basis in the most deserving cases:

1. Boarding and lodging for distressed Overseas Indian workers in the household/domestic sectors and unskilled labourers.

2. Extending emergency medical care to the overseas Indians in need.

3. Providing air passage to stranded overseas Indians in need.

4. Providing initial legal assistance to the overseas Indians in deserving cases.

5. Expenditure on incidentals and for airlifting the mortal remains to India or local cremation burial of the deceased overseas Indians in such cases where the sponsor is unable or unwilling to do so as per the contract and the family is unable to meet the cost.

6. Payment of penalties in respect of Indian nationals for illegal stay in the host country where the worker is not at fault.

7. Providing the payment of small fines/penalties for the release of Indian nationals in jails/detention centre.

8. Providing support to local overseas Indian associations to establish overseas Indian community centres in countries that have population of overseas Indians exceeding 1,00,000.

9. Providing support to start and run overseas Indian community-based student welfare centres in countries that have more than 20,000 Indian students.

MADAD Portal

a) The portal is an online Consular Grievances Management System to extend a helping hand to Indians abroad requiring consular assistance. It seeks to address grievances on issues related to workers abuse, recruiting agents, sponsorship and contract issues, repatriation of Indian nationals, tracing whereabouts of Indian nationals, death/injury compensation, transportation of mortal remains of deceased Indian nationals and marital dispute issues.

b) You or one of your family members can directly register your grievances on the portal (madad@gov.in). Once the complaint is lodged, it is automatically transferred to the concerned mission/post and status of its redressal is reflected on track grievance page. The mobile number registered on the portal gets an SMS-based response as and when the status changes.

c) The Embassy/Consulate follows up the grievances with the employers, RAs, Government authorities, labour courts, etc. for resolving the same.

d) The status of the progress of processing of the grievances could be monitored online.

e) The portal also has an associated call centre for grievances.

f) There is also an app for the MADAD portal.

Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tcs.appmadad&hl=en&pli=1

PBBY Insurance Claim Process

Insurance claim through PBBY can be registered online through the Ministry’s portal: https://emigrate.gov.in

a) Open the homepage.

b) Click on caption PBBY policy.

c) Click on ‘submit claim for PBBY policy’.

d) A template page appears where insurance details are to be filled.

e) Claim can be registered by the emigrants, their relatives, friends, PoEs, Indian Missions, IWRC, RAs, etc.

Insurance claim lodged on the e-Migrate portal is directly assigned to the Insurance company for settlement of claim.

For more details, visit https://www.mea.gov.in/pbby.htm

Embassy/Consular Support and Services in Austria

You can reach Embassy of India in Austria at the following contact details:

1. Emergency Consular Assistance

For emergency consular assistance outside office hours, you can call +4315058666(landline) or +43-6768943748801(mobile).

The Embassy of India in Vienna can be reached by different means and at different addresses. For more information, refer to the below information.

Telephone queries

• Main reception Tel. + 43 1 50 58 666 (from 10 to 13hrs and 14hrs – 1730hrs)

• Consular Section Tel. + 431 585 0793 (from 1400hrs – 1600hrs)

Email:

• cons1.viennamea.gov.in (Passport and other consular services)

• cons2.viennamea.gov.in(OCI & Visa services)

For more information, visit https://eoivienna.gov.in/

Understanding Your Rights as an Employee in Austria

1. Employment Contracts

An employment contract (Arbeitsvertrag) outlines your duties and conditions. It can be written or oral but must detail key aspects like salary, working hours and benefits. Ensure clarity before signing and seek advice from the Austrian Chamber of Labour if needed.

2. Unemployment Benefits

Covered under unemployment insurance after 52 weeks of work in 24 months. Benefits are 55% of previous earnings, extendable with family supplements. Minimum income (Mindestsicherung) is available if job search fails.

3. Leaves

• Pregnancy and Parental Leave: Protected from dismissal, no hard physical labour 8 weeks before/after birth.

• Annual Leave: Minimum 5 weeks annually, increasing with service.

• Compassionate Leave: Allowed for caring responsibilities.

4. Sick Leave and Benefits

Paid sick leave based on length of service, with sickness benefits provided if incapacity lasts over 42 days.

5. Remuneration

Paid monthly, with additional Christmas and holiday bonuses. Deductions include taxes and social contributions.

6. Termination and Working Hours

Trial periods (Probezeit) up to a month; termination notice is 6 weeks, varying with service. Normal working hours are 38.5 to 40 weekly, with flexible arrangements possible.

7. Worker Representation

Companies with over five employees must have a worker council (Betriebsrat). Trade unions provide legal support and advocate for employee rights.

8. Joining a Trade Union

Employees can join the Austrian Trade Union Federation (ÖGB) for representation and negotiation of collective agreements.

Responsibilities

a) Integration with Local Community

Integration with the local Austrian community is essential for cross-cultural understanding and social cohesion. Key aspects include:

• Language Acquisition: Crucial for effective communication and forming deeper relationships.

• Participation in Local Events: Engaging in festivals and events bridges cultural gaps and fosters a sense of belonging.

• Culinary Exploration: Developing a taste for Austrian delicacies enhances mutual appreciation of diverse tastes.

• Understanding Social Etiquette: Learning local customs and social interactions helps build strong interpersonal relationships.

b) Respect Local Laws and Regulations

• Familiarise yourself with Austrian laws and regulations, including traffic laws, this includes immigration laws, labour laws, immigration requirements, applicable local ordinances and any other relevant statutes.

• Ensure your visa and residence permits are always up to date and abide by the terms and conditions of your visa.

• Adhere to environmental regulations and promote eco-friendly practices both at work and in daily life.

c) Cultural Awareness and Integration

• Learn about Austrian culture, customs and social norms. Show respect for local traditions and practices.

• Consider taking German language courses to facilitate communication and integration.

• Participate in local events, clubs and activities to meet people and integrate into Austrian society.

• Respect diversity and be open to building friendships with people from various backgrounds.

• Engage in community activities and volunteer opportunities to build a sense of belonging and contribute to your local community.

d) Workplace Responsibilities:

• Fulfilling job duties and responsibilities as outlined in the employment contract.

• Maintaining professionalism, punctuality and a good work ethic.

• Collaborating with colleagues and supervisors to achieve common goals.

e) Stay Informed

It is your responsibility to stay updated on local news, events and changes in regulations that may affect your daily life.

Stay informed about local safety guidelines and emergency procedures while keeping your personal belongings and documents secure.

Basic knowledge of the local language and English phrases would ease communication and facilitate integration into the society and workplaces. Some of them are given below: