Rates of pay in Austria are on average higher than in the rest of the EU, with performance linked bonuses and company cars the standard for senior roles. All employees are paid on a monthly basis, whether temp or perm and look forward to, on average, two months extra pay at Christmas. This increased spending power is fair compensation for working in a highly structured environment – Austrians are rarely late for meetings!
Austria's individual income tax ranges between 0% and 50%, with 4 tax bands. The standard V.A.T. rate in Austria is 20%.There is also a reduced V.A.T. rate of 10%, applying to tourism, food and agriculture.
Foreign employees working in Austria are subject to taxation if they have a work permit or employment contract exceeding six months. Salaried employees, wage earners, civil servants, and pensioners pay income tax direct from their wages; for a rebate a return must be filed with the Tax Office.
After three days visitors must register for a visa with the relevant local authority, providing either a valid passport or card identifying them as a resident of Liechtenstein, Malta, Monaco, San Marino, Switzerland or the EU.
If you plan to stay longer than 6 months or are considering permanent residence in Austria you will need proof of the purpose of your stay, proof of address and proof of income in excess of € 690 per month; an Austrian guarantor can take the place of proof of income. You must also provide evidence of health and personal accident cover and a copy of any police records.
