Expat Reveals Unvarnished Truths About Living in Austria: Language, Jobs, and Costs

Vienna, Austria An expat, who has resided in Austria for seven years, recently shared her comprehensive perspective on the pros and cons of living in the country. Her insights shed light on critical aspects for prospective residents, particularly those from non-EU nations. A central theme highlighted was the undeniable necessity of mastering the German language. "Yes, you need that German," she stated, emphasizing its importance for securing employment and navigating bureaucratic processes, despite English being prevalent among younger generations and in casual settings like shops and cafes. She recounted her own experience of learning German since primary school and attending the Austrian Institute in Belgrade for further proficiency. Regarding bureaucracy, while acknowledging efforts to digitize processes, particularly with "ID Austria," she noted that the visa application remains a significant hurdle for non-EU citizens. She observed recent improvements in efficiency but cautioned newcomers about the initial complexity, advising them to seek guidance from those with prior experience. The expat also addressed the current state of the Austrian job market, describing it as "much harder to find a full-time job now" compared to obtaining a student visa. She attributed this to companies reducing budgets, cutting positions, and being reluctant to manage visas and work permits for foreign applicants, preferring immediate hires. The cost of living in Vienna was another major point of discussion. While groceries can be affordable in discount supermarkets, other aspects of life are considerably expensive. She cited examples such as a Pilates class costing around "30, and pharmacy items not covered by prescription being "quite expensive," with four items costing her "70 last month. Dining out and entertainment are also costly, with club entry at "20 and cocktails starting from "15. Public transport, however, offers a relatively affordable annual pass at "365 for Vienna. Finally, she touched upon social integration, describing Austrians as "very reserved." She found it easier to connect with fellow Serbians or other foreigners with similar mentalities. Another significant drawback mentioned was the closure of most shops on Sundays, which requires careful planning for groceries, a stark contrast to the habits of people from the Balkans. This personal account offers a valuable, unvarnished look at the realities of expat life in Austria, emphasizing preparation and realistic expectations for those considering a move.

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