Austria is seeing a significant increase in job openings, with an average of 196,400 unfilled positions reported in the first quarter of 2024.
According to Statistics Austria, this represents an 8.5% rise from the previous quarter’s 181,000 vacancies, highlighting a growing demand for labor, particularly in the service sector.
This increase in job vacancies offers substantial opportunities for foreign professionals, especially in essential roles such as nurses, plumbers, and carpenters.
Around 196,000 Job Vacancies for Foreign Professionals
Austria’s labor market faces significant shortages across various sectors, providing numerous opportunities for foreign professionals. Job vacancies include 113,200 positions in the service sector, 46,100 in manufacturing, and 37,100 in the public sector.
The latest EURES report highlights several high-demand occupations:
– Service Sector: Nursing professionals and cooks.
– Manufacturing and Engineering: Electrical mechanics, motor vehicle mechanics, welders, and flame cutters.
– Construction and Trades: Plumbers, pipefitters, carpenters, and joiners.
– Technical and Engineering: Electronics engineering technicians and systems analysts.
Visa Options for Nigerians and Other Non-EU Citizens
Austria offers several visa options for non-EU citizens such as Nigerians aiming to work in the country. These visas cater to various employment needs, each with specific purposes, durations, and criteria.
– D Visa (Long-term visa): For non-EU citizens planning to work in Austria for more than 90 days. It requires an employment contract or job offer, proof of accommodation, sufficient financial means, and health insurance.
– Red-White-Red Card: Popular among highly skilled workers from non-EU countries. It combines a residence and work permit, valid for up to two years. Applicants are assessed based on qualifications, work experience, age, and language skills.
– EU Blue Card: Aimed at highly qualified non-EU citizens, allowing them to work in Austria and other EU member states. It requires high educational qualifications, an employment contract with a salary at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Austria, and proof of health insurance and housing.
– Job Seeker Visa: Allows highly qualified non-EU citizens to stay in Austria for six months while seeking employment. Applicants must demonstrate their qualifications, relevant professional experience, financial means, and health insurance.
Salary Range for Skilled Professionals
Austria offers competitive salaries, making it an attractive destination for skilled professionals. Average annual salaries for high-demand roles include:
– General Practitioners: €162,974
– Registered Nurses: €69,552
– Electrical Engineers: €75,384
– Automotive Mechanics: €43,001
– Plumbers: €53,688
Documents Needed for an Austria Visa
To apply for an Austria visa, you need to prepare the following documents:
– Passport/Travel Document: Must have at least two blank pages and be valid for at least six months, issued within the last decade.
– Visa Application Form: Needs to be filled out and signed. Instructions on how to fill in the form are available [here].
– Recent Pictures: Must follow Schengen visa photo rules set by ICAO.
– Visa Fee: Ranges from €75 to €150 for a D-Visa.
– Letter of Purpose: A cover letter stating the reason for your visit.
– Itinerary: Correct dates for flights and plans during the trip.
– Travel Insurance: Covers medical and emergency issues up to €30,000.
– Civil Status Documents: Birth certificates or marriage license.
– Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservation or proof of other accommodations.
– Proof of Financial Means: Evidence of sufficient funds to finance your travels.
– Copies of Previous Schengen Visas: If applicable.
How to Apply for a Visa to Austria
1. Determine the type of visa you need.
2. Find an embassy/consulate or official representative of the Austrian government in your country.
3. Call the embassy to set a date for your application.
4. Prepare all necessary documents.
5. Submit the documents to the embassy/consulate.
