Austria is not only one of Europe’s most peaceful and student-friendly countries, but it also offers excellent opportunities for international students to work while studying. Whether you want to manage your daily expenses, gain European work experience, or build your career path, Austria provides a safe, structured, and supportive environment for student employment.
For International students, Austria has become an increasingly popular destination because:
- Tuition fees are affordable in public universities
- Living costs are reasonable compared to Western Europe
- Part-time job opportunities are widely available
- And most importantly — students are legally allowed to work during their studies
In this detailed 1500+ word guide, you’ll learn everything about working in Austria as a student in 2025 — including legal rules, required documents, salary structure, job search tips, and the most in-demand jobs for international students.
1. Can Students Work in Austria?
Yes. International students, can legally work in Austria during their studies. But the type of work and the number of hours you’re allowed to work depend on your program and residence permit.
Austria has clear and student-friendly work regulations, making it easier to earn and gain experience while studying.
2. How Many Hours Can a Student Work in Austria?
Austria has two categories of international students:
2.1. EU/EEA Students
- -Can work freely without restrictions
- -No work permit required
2.2. Non-EU Students
- -Can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester
- -Can work full-time during vacations (semester breaks)
- -Requires a Work Permit (Beschäftigungsbewilligung) issued by AMS (Austrian Public Employment Service)
But don’t worry — the employer usually applies for the work permit on your behalf.
3. Work Permit for Students in Austria (2025 Rules)
To work legally, non-EU students need a work permit. Here’s how it works:
3.1 Who applies?
- -Your employer applies to AMS
- -You do NOT need to visit AMS yourself
3.2 Documents employer needs:
- Your residence permit card
- Your passport copy
- Study confirmation
- Employment contract details
3.3 Work Permit Processing Time
- -Usually 1–3 weeks
- -Simple, fast, and handled by employer
Good news:
If you work under 20 hours/week in a student-friendly sector, AMS generally approves without issues.
4. How Much Do Students Earn in Austria?
Austria has one of the highest minimum wages in Europe. Salaries vary by sector, city, and job type, but on average:
Average Student Salary in Austria:
- €12 – €15 per hour for general part-time jobs
- €15 – €20 per hour for skilled or evening/holiday shifts
- €800 – €1,200 per month depending on hours
City-wise earning potential:
- Vienna (highest opportunities)
- Graz
- Linz
- Salzburg
- Innsbruck
Vienna offers the most job opportunities, but Graz and Linz also have high-paying student-friendly work.
5. Cost of Living vs Salary (Realistic Breakdown)
Here’s a realistic monthly budget for students in 2025:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (Approx.) |
| Accommodation | €350–€500 |
| Food | €200–€280 |
| Transport | €20–€30 |
| Insurance | €65 |
| Phone/Internet | €20 |
| Miscellaneous | €80–€100 |
| Total Monthly Cost | €750–€950 |
With part-time income of €800–€1,200/month, students can comfortably manage:
Rent- Food
- Utilities
- Transportation
- Savings
6. Types of Part-Time Jobs for Students in Austria
Austria has a strong service sector, tourism industry, and stable economy — so student jobs are widely available.
Most common jobs for students:
6.1 Restaurant & Café Jobs
- -Waiter/Waitress
- -Barista
- -Kitchen helper
- -Cashier
6.2 Retail Jobs
- -Supermarket assistant
- -Clothing store salesperson
- -Stock organizer
6.3 Uni Campus Jobs
- -Library assistant
- -Research support
- -Student assistant (Tutor jobs)
6.4 Delivery & Logistics
- -Food delivery
- -Parcel sorting
- -Warehouse assistant
6.5 Hospitality & Tourism
- -Hotel receptionist
- -Housekeeping
- -Event staff
6.6 Office & IT Jobs (for skilled students)
- -Data entry
- -Web development
- -Social media management
- -Customer support (international companies)
6.7 Seasonal Jobs
- -Christmas market staff
- -Ski resort jobs (winter)
- -Tourism jobs (summer)
7. Job Search Tips: How to Find Part-Time Work Easily
Finding a job is not difficult if you search in the right places.
7.1 Best Job Portals
7.2 University Career Services
Every public university has a Career Center — with exclusive job postings for students.
7.3 Walk-in Applications
Restaurants, supermarkets, cafés, and stores often accept direct walk-in CVs.
7.4 Networking
Most international students get jobs through:
- -Seniors
- -WhatsApp/Facebook groups
- -Local Austrian friends
8. Do Students Need German Language for Jobs?
Short answer: Not always.
Austria has two types of jobs:
8.1 Jobs WITHOUT German
- -Kitchens
- -Housekeeping
- -Warehouse
- -Delivery
- -Some campus jobs
- -IT & tech jobs
- -International restaurants
8.2 Jobs WITH German
- -Cashier
- -Customer service
- -Reception
- -Supermarket jobs
- -Retail sales
- -Office jobs
Knowing German increases your salary and doubles your job opportunities.
Recommended level:
- A2 (basic conversation)
- B1 (comfortable for customer-facing work)
9. Can Students Work Full-Time During Holidays?
Yes.
During semester breaks and official holidays, non-EU students can work full-time (40 hours/week) legally.
This is very beneficial because:
- -Salaries double
- -You can save money for next semester
- -You gain strong work experience
Many students earn €2,000–€2,500 per holiday month during seasonal full-time work.
10. Does Working Affect Your Studies or Visa?
No, as long as:
- You maintain the minimum required attendance
- You do not delay your studies for many years
- You follow 20-hour weekly limit during the semester
Austrian universities are flexible, and part-time work is common among international students.
11. Income Tax for Students in Austria
Students pay minimal tax because of low income.
Tax details:
- -Under €11,000/year → 0% income tax
- -Students can file for tax refund
- -Many students get €200–€600 refund annually
Austria is very student-friendly with taxes and benefits.
12. Post-Study Work Options (After Graduation)
After completing your degree, you can convert your permit to:
- -Red-White-Red Card (RWR Card)
- -A 1–2 year work and residence permit for skilled graduates.
Requirements include:
- -Job offer in your field
- -Minimum annual salary
- -Qualification points
Austria’s labor market has high demand for:
- -IT
- -Engineering
- -Management
- -Tourism
- -Healthcare
So graduates have excellent opportunities for full-time employment.
Conclusion
Working in Austria as an international student is not only allowed, but strongly supported by the system. With a clear 20-hour work rule, student-friendly salaries, a safe environment, and strong job market, Austria offers some of the best work opportunities in Europe for International students.
Whether you want to cover living costs, build your CV, or gain real European work experience, Austria makes it all possible. For 2025 and beyond, the country remains one of the most reliable and student-friendly study destinations.
