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Everything you need to know about becoming an international teacher in Austria

International teachers

Teaching in Austria as an international educator offers a unique opportunity to experience a country known for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and high quality of life.

Austria is home to a well-established network of international schools, particularly in Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck. With its strong education system, excellent healthcare, and vibrant arts scene, Austria provides an attractive destination for teachers looking to work abroad.

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about becoming an international teacher in Austria, including visa requirements, cost of living, healthcare, cultural expectations, and expat communities.

 

Visa requirements for international teachers in Austria

To work as an international teacher in Austria, you will need a visa and a residence permit. Your employer typically assists with the application process.

Key steps include:

  • Work visa application – If you are not an EU/EEA citizen, you will need a work visa before entering Austria.
  • Red-White-Red Card – This residence permit allows skilled workers, including teachers, to live and work in Austria for up to two years.
  • EU/EEA citizens – If you’re from an EU country, you do not need a visa but must register with Austrian authorities within three months of arrival.

Required documents may include:

  • A valid passport
  • Employment contract
  • Proof of qualifications and certifications
  • A clean police clearance certificate
  • Medical insurance proof

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the Austrian government website.

 

Cost of living for international teachers in Austria

Austria offers a high standard of living, but the cost can be relatively high depending on the city. Vienna, for instance, is one of Europe’s most livable cities but also one of the more expensive.

Cost of living in Vienna (USD)

Rent for one-bedroom apartment in city centre – $1,075 per month
Rent for one-bedroom apartment outside city centre – $780 per month
Loaf of bread – $2.60
Litre of milk – $1.50
12 eggs – $4.10
Takeaway coffee – $4.20
Meal for two at mid-range restaurant – $72.00
Meal at inexpensive restaurant – $15.45
Public transport – $2.50 one way

 

Healthcare for international teachers in Austria

Austria has a high-quality healthcare system that is accessible to both residents and expatriates. The country operates a dual public and private healthcare system, with the majority of residents using public healthcare services, which are funded through social insurance contributions.

Public healthcare: The Austrian healthcare system provides universal coverage, meaning anyone working in Austria is automatically enrolled in public health insurance. This includes access to general practitioners, specialists, hospital treatment, and emergency care. While there may be small co-payments for certain services, the majority of healthcare costs are covered by the system.

Private healthcare: Many expatriates and higher-income residents opt for private health insurance to access shorter wait times, private hospitals, and additional specialist care. Private insurance can be purchased independently or may be included in international school employment packages.

Hospitals and medical facilities: Austria has a well-developed network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers, with modern facilities and highly trained professionals. In major cities like Vienna and Salzburg, English-speaking doctors are widely available.

Many international schools in Austria offer health insurance as part of their employment package.

 

Cultural expectations and norms for international teachers in Austria

Austrians value professionalism, punctuality, and courtesy in both workplace and social settings.

Professionalism: Schools expect teachers to be well-prepared, organised, and respectful toward students and colleagues.

Dress code: Generally formal, but it varies by school.

Language: German is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in international schools. Learning some basic German phrases can help in daily life.

Social etiquette: Austrians appreciate polite greetings, firm handshakes, and direct but respectful communication. Punctuality is highly valued, so always arrive on time for meetings and classes.

 

Expat communities for international teachers in Austria

Austria has a thriving expat community, especially in Vienna and Salzburg, where international schools and multinational companies attract professionals from around the world.

International teacher networks: Many expat teachers connect through social media groups, meetups, and professional organisations.

Expat organisations: Groups like Internations and local expat clubs host regular events and activities.

Cultural activities: Austria’s arts, music, and outdoor lifestyle make it easy to engage with both locals and expats.

Joining expat communities can make settling in easier and provide valuable social and professional connections.

 

Schrole international schools in Austria

Ready to find out what Austria has to offer you? Explore Schrole international schools in Austria now:

Danube International School Vienna
Vienna International School

Full access

To career opportunities across the globe

$50 USD per year
Paid membership
  • Ability to create a unique educator profile that holds your references and important documents, such as teaching qualifications, all in one location.
  • Access to our entire database of 400+ international schools representing 100+ countries.
  • 5,000+ teaching vacancies every recruitment season.
  • Unlimited number of job applications.
  • Custom alerts so you’re the first to hear when your preferred roles are posted.
  • Access to virtual and in-person recruitment events with school leaders and recruiters.

Limited access

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$0
Free membership
  • Ability to create a unique educator profile that holds your references and important documents, such as teaching qualifications, all in one location.
  • Access to our entire database of schools to discover your next teaching role.
  • Submission of three job applications.

I have been a school-level user of Schrole for recruiting for the last three hiring cycles and have found the platform they provide to be intuitive and comprehensive. The user interface stands out from others in the market as a crisp interface with the right level of features included at the right places. For me, the top two features are the ability to create school-specific application questions for applicants, and the availability of a short and long form applicant documentation PDF. If you’re looking for a recruiting platform, I highly recommend considering Schrole.

Dr. Richard Granger Deputy Principal of Secondary School
Taejon Christian International School
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