Moving to Austria – KOCH Moving Logistics
MOVING TO AUSTRIA
Welcome to Austria
Austria – the land of the Alps, coffee house culture and joy of life – delights with a unique blend of natural beauty and traditional way of life. Whether you dream of the imperial city of Vienna with its regal flair, musical Salzburg, the picturesque old town of Innsbruck or the idyllic lakes and mountains of the Salzkammergut – moving to Austria opens up new perspectives in one of the most liveable and culturally richest countries in Europe.
EXPERT EMPLOYEES
Our expert team pack and unpack everything for you. We professionally dismantle, assemble and configure your office furniture. With the help of our trusted partners we can also assist you with setting up your network and cables for your workstations.
FULL SERVICE MOVING
We offer you all services in one place – advice, planning and coordination. We always pay attention to a good price-quality ratio. When moving a company, our experts pay attention to the safety of your information and data.
STRONG CONNECTION
Originally founded as a relocation department of KOCH International we became an independent moving company in 2010. Despite the split-off, we believe in strong cooperation and solidarity with the international logistics company.
Questions about moving to Austria?
MOVING TO AUSTRIA
Daily life
Living and working in Austria combines a high standard of living with an impressive natural and cultural landscape. Austria ranks among the most stable economies in Europe and offers attractive career opportunities in sectors such as tourism, mechanical engineering, wood and paper industry, energy, as well as healthcare and social services. KOCH Moving Logistics reliably accompanies you on your path to this liveable and tradition‑rich country.
ENTRY INTO AUSTRIA
Residence regulations
German citizens enjoy particularly easy access to Austria thanks to EU freedom of movement. They can enter visa‑free and stay in Austria for up to three months without a residence permit. For stays longer than three months, only a registration requirement applies – you must register with the competent residence authority within four months of entry. A separate residence permit is not required for Germans. However, for moving to Austria, proof of adequate health insurance is necessary – insurance that covers all risks and is valid in Austria.. Eine gesonderte Aufenthaltsbewilligung ist für Deutsche nicht erforderlich. Für den Umzug nach Österreich ist jedoch der Nachweis einer ausreichenden Krankenversicherung notwendig, die alle Risiken abdeckt und in Österreich leistungspflichtig ist.
LIVING IN AUSTRIA
Real estate market
The Austrian property market offers a wide range of housing options, from urban apartments in cities such as Vienna, Graz, Linz or Salzburg to rural single‑family homes in the federal states. Rental prices vary greatly depending on location – in sought‑after cities like Salzburg and Vienna, rents are comparatively high, while rural regions such as Carinthia or Lower Austria offer significantly more affordable housing. KOCH Moving Logistics helps you find suitable accommodation and supports you in navigating the Austrian rental market.
WORKING IN AUSTRIA
Job opportunities for Germans
Working in Austria means becoming part of a dynamic work culture that combines enjoyment, joie de vivre and willingness to perform. German skilled professionals are in demand in many sectors, from healthcare and education to engineering, IT, tourism, and research & development. Thanks to EU freedom of movement, you do not need a work permit – you can apply for any job without restrictions. Austrian labour law is similar to German law in many respects, but offers some special features such as the 13th and 14th months' salary (holiday and Christmas bonuses), which are legally anchored. KOCH Moving Logistics helps you discover the right job opportunities for expats, freelancers and entrepreneurs, and assists you in successfully starting your career.
EDUCATION IN AUSTRIA
Schools for expats
In Austria, expats have access to an excellent education system with public schools, international schools and private educational institutions. The Austrian school system is divided into primary school (Volksschule), then lower secondary (Mittelschule or Gymnasium), and finally upper secondary. For international families, cities like Vienna offer numerous international schools, including the Vienna International School (VIS), the American International School Vienna (AIS) and the Danube International School. KOCH Moving Logistics helps you find the best options for your children – from kindergarten to secondary school.
IMPORTANT ASPECTS – AUSTRIA
Healthcare system
The Austrian healthcare system is one of the best in Europe and is based on the principle of compulsory insurance. In Austria, compulsory insurance applies – insurance coverage arises automatically by law and exists in principle for all persons living in Austria. Employees are automatically insured through the Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK). Self‑employed persons are also required to take out compulsory insurance. Medical care is excellent throughout the country, and Austrian hospitals and doctors enjoy an excellent reputation. KOCH Moving Logistics helps you find your way around the Austrian healthcare system.
FINANCES
Tax system in Austria
The Austrian tax system is moderate by international comparison. Income tax is progressive – lower incomes remain tax‑free, while higher incomes are subject to increasing rates, with the highest tax rate applying to very high incomes. Value Added Tax distinguishes between a standard rate and several reduced rates. There is no wealth tax in Austria. As a German emigrant, you benefit from the double taxation agreement between Germany and Austria, which prevents you from having to pay tax on your income twice. KOCH Moving Logistics provides valuable assistance for your financial planning.
Austrian culture
Cultural characteristics
Austria delights with a fascinating cultural diversity strongly shaped by its historical roots as a former core land of the Habsburg monarchy. From the famous Viennese opera and theatre balls, traditional cattle drives (Almabtriebe), Maypole erections and village fairs (Kirtage), to the atmospheric Christkindl markets during Advent – the art of living and customs meet here. Austria has 13 public holidays, including National Day on 26 October.KOCH Moving Logistics helps you discover these special features and quickly find your way in Austrian society.
EMIGRATING TO AUSTRIA
Leisure and recreation
Austria is a paradise for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, skiing, mountain biking and swimming in the countless mountain lakes are always possible thanks to the Alps and the well‑developed infrastructure. Popular destinations include the city of Salzburg with its baroque old town and Hellbrunn Palace, the picturesque lakeside village of Hallstatt, as well as the federal capital Vienna with Schönbrunn Palace and the Giant Ferris Wheel in the Prater. But the country also has a great deal to offer culturally: museums, theatres, music festivals, a vibrant coffee house culture and the famous Viennese cuisine invite discovery. KOCH Moving Logistics supports you in settling in quickly, so you can fully enjoy the numerous leisure opportunities.
LANGUAGE AND INTEGRATION
Learning German
German language skills are an essential foundation for successful integration, even though German is spoken in Austria and communication is easy for native German speakers. Nevertheless, there are many regional peculiarities and dialects that shape the Austrian linguistic area. The Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF) offers German courses from literacy to level C1, as well as free online courses. Understanding the Austrian mentality is important – such as the appreciation of cosiness, sociability, joie de vivre and the famous "talking with one another". KOCH Moving Logistics provides valuable tips to help you feel at home quickly in your new environment.
Contact person
Vitalij Habiger